US-based restaurant franchisee company KBP Brands has significantly expanded its portfolio by acquiring 85 SONIC restaurants from Boom for an undisclosed sum.
The acquired SONIC restaurants are located across six US states: Delaware, Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia.
SONIC, a drive-in restaurant chain, is owned by Inspire Brands, which also owns Arby's, a partner of KBP.
KBP first entered the Inspire Brands network in 2021 by acquiring several Arby’s locations.
SONIC’s menu, featuring made-to-order American classics, beverages and ice cream treats, complements KBP's restaurant brand portfolio.
Sonic Brand president Jim Taylor said: “KBP is one of the largest restaurant operators in the US and an ideal addition to the Sonic family.
“I had the pleasure of working with KBP during my previous role as president of the Arby’s brand, and I look forward to expanding with them, providing thousands of customisable food and beverage combinations and a unique drive-in format and guest experience that differentiates our brand in the quick-service space.”
This acquisition of 85 units is one of KBP's largest to date and will boost the company's annual revenue to more than $1.5bn.
KBP executive vice-president Mark Everett will oversee operations and expansion for the company's SONIC locations.
Based in Leawood, Kansas, KBP Brands owns and operates more than 1,000 KFC, Taco Bell, Arby's and SONIC restaurants across 32 US states.
It employs more than 21,000 people in its restaurants and Kansas City headquarters.
KBP Brands CEO Mike Kulp said: “Our SONIC partnership diversifies KBP's portfolio with another time-tested, beloved restaurant brand, bolsters our geographic density in the southeastern US, and expands our relationship and growth with Inspire Brands.
“We're thrilled to add SONIC to the KBP family.”
In August 2024, SONIC announced that it will expand its menu with the addition of Loaded Queso Fries.
The new offering comes in Bacon Ranch and Southwest varieties, each served on the chain’s signature Groovy Fries.
