Restaurant Brands announces investments to drive growth in China

Restaurant Brands International (QSR) announced two transactions in China, the acquisition of Popeyes China, and the co-investment with Cartesian Capital into the business of TH International (THCH). The two transactions reflect RBI’s confidence in China, one of the largest QSR markets globally, and its commitment to drive growth in the market. RBI’s total amount of capital outlay will be up to $45M for the two transactions. RBI has agreed to acquire the Popeyes China business from Tims China on a cash-free debt-free basis based on an enterprise value of $15M. Following the transaction, RBI will own and operate Popeyes China, which opened its first restaurant in August 2023 and has 14 restaurants in Shanghai today. The pace of restaurant growth is expected to ramp up through investments in local teams and restaurant development. Longer-term, RBI expects to bring on local partners to form a more traditional master franchisee, similar to other Popeyes international markets.