An affiliate of Atlanta-based private equity firm Roark Capital Group has acquired the 65 unit Miller’s Ale House, a growing casual dining restaurant chain with approximately USD300m in system-wide sales, from Jack Miller and SKM Equity Fund III.
This investment is Roark’s 26th multi-unit company, 13th restaurant brand, and second full-service restaurant concept.
Started in Jupiter, Florida in 1988 by husband and wife team Jack and Claire Miller, Miller’s Ale House offers an extensive menu of freshly prepared food at attractive prices, over 75 domestic and craft beers, and a large selection of high definition TVs.
As part of the transaction, restaurant industry veteran and current National Restaurant Association chairman Phil Hickey will join Miller’s Ale House as chairman.
"Miller’s Ale House has distinguished itself within the Sports Bar and Grill segment," says Hickey. "Jack Miller and the entire Ale House team have created a truly unique restaurant concept focused on great food, great service and great value."
Hickey has more than 35 years in the restaurant industry and was the recent recipient of the Norman Brinker Award for outstanding leadership in the restaurant industry. Hickey was chairman of the board/chief executive officer of RARE Hospitality whose concepts included LongHorn Steakhouse and the Capital Grille, and led the company through its successful sale to Darden Restaurants.
Jack Miller says: "I am excited to have Roark acquire Miller’s Ale House. Roark’s culture and strong record of partnering with management to build restaurant brands makes them the right partner for our team, the brand and our loyal and passionate customers. Roark’s experience with restaurant operations will help us continue the success and growth of the Miller’s Ale House brand."
"The Miller’s Ale House acquisition fits Roark’s strategy of acquiring differentiated consumer brands with loyal followings and strong customer value propositions," says Ezra Field, managing director of Roark Capital. "We look forward to working closely with Jack, Phil, Ale House president Ray Holden and the rest of the Miller’s Ale House team to continue to build the brand and business."
