Inspire Brands has sold Rusty Taco to Gala Capital Partners, an investment firm that owns such chains as Cici’s Pizza. The terms of the deal were not disclosed but the Rusty Taco management team, led by Brendan Mauri, will continue with the brand and have co-invested in the acquisition.
Inspire Brands acquired a majority interest in Rusty Taco as part of it is purchase of Buffalo Wild Wings in 2018. During the time Inspire Brands owned Rusty Taco, the chain grew more than 50%, per a release.
Founded by veteran restauranteur Anand Gala, GCP focuses on restaurant franchisors with 25 to 500 units. Its portfolio includes Dunn Brothers Coffee, a 60-unit chain acquired in 2022; Cicis Pizza, a 300-unit chain acquired in 2021 and and MOOYAH Burgers, Fries & Shakes, a 100-unit chain acquired in 2017.
