The company was acquired by private equity firm Berkshire Partners in 2014 from the founder for approximately $1 billion.
The non-Chicago locations have achieved AUVs of $6 million to $7 million, more than double quick service restaurants and fast casual industry averages.
While Portillo's has much larger AUV than its peers, the company has an even larger average footprint than peers.
Closing this gap will take significant capital allocation improvements, technology initiatives, marketing plans, real estate restructurings and operational advancements.
Engaged is supportive of management and expects they will recruit a strong operator into the presently vacant COO role.
Persons:
Portillo's, –, Ken Squire
Organizations:
Berkshire Partners, Berkshire, Management, NFL, Del, Shake, 13D
Locations:
Berkshire, Chicago, Portillo's, That's, Del Frisco's