McDonald's (NYSE:MCD) took another step in narrowing its focus to its core business yesterday, announcing the sale of its Boston Market business to private equity firm Sun Capital Partners, Inc. The company did not divulge the sale price. McDonald's purchased the chain in 2000, when aggregation was the hot button in the industry, for $173.5 million. Boston Market currently has $180 million in assets and $89.1 million of liabilities.
The move makes senses for both parties. Much like its earlier divestiture of Chipotle Mexican Grill (NYSE:CMG), cutting Boston Market loose will free up more cash for McDonald's to reinvest in growing the mother ship, and will further eliminate distractions to its strategic plan.
For Sun Capital Partners, the expertise gained by the management of its other holdings in the restaurant industry, including Real Mex, Bruegger's Bagels, Fazoli's, Garden Fresh and Souper Salad, should aid it in maximizing the value of the Boston Market brand.
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