C-store foodservice program Krispy Krunchy Chicken wins private-equity investment

A Louisiana-based Cajun chicken concept designed for convenience stores has won a strategic growth investment from private-equity firm Main Post Partners, the company said Tuesday.

Krispy Krunchy Chicken, or KKC, partners with retail operators — mainly convenience stores — to offer a menu of proprietary Cajun-style fried chicken and sides. Founded in 1989 by Neal Onebane, the brand is available in more than 2,600 retail locations in 48 states and has developed somewhat of a cult following.

Terms were not disclosed, but the plan is to grow the brand and build awareness.

Dan Shapiro, Krispy Krunchy’s CEO, said the 32-year-old brand has grown primarily by relying on word-of-mouth marketing and loyalty. Main Post Partners, which has prior experience in foodservice with investments in Jimmy John’s, Snooze an A.M. Eatery, the Peruvian-stye Viva Chicken and multiconcept franchisee Flynn Restaurant Group.

“We are very excited to partner with Dan, the Krispy Krunchy team, and a brand that has struck a chord with its avid customer base. The scale and success of KKC is very impressive, but we see a substantial opportunity to further unlock the brand’s potential and grow awareness of Krispy Krunchy’s craveable convenient products,” said Aaron Garcia, principal at Main Post Partners.

Brookline Capital Partners served as the exclusive financial advisor and Katten Munchin Rosenman served as the exclusive legal advisor to Krispy Krunchy; Davis Wright Tremaine served as exclusive legal advisor to Main Post Partners.

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