New York, Feb 06 — 4×4 Capital (‘4×4’), a leading investment platform focused on creating value for middle market companies in consumer goods and services, today announced the acquisition of Bob Evans Restaurants from Golden Gate Capital. The transaction underscores the enduring value of the Bob Evans Restaurants business and aims to maximize its long-term growth potential.
Born on a farm in Rio Grande, Ohio, in 1948, Bob Evans Restaurants is a family-style restaurant chain known for its farm fresh ingredients and hospitality. The brand offers high-quality, farm fresh food at a great value for families nationwide. The all-American family dining brand has more than 400 locations employing over 15,000 people in 18 States. The brand’s dedication to community engagement through farming and neighborhood initiatives remains a cornerstone of its identity.
CEO Mickey Mills and her team will continue to lead the company to serve customers as they have proudly done for the past 78 years. 4×4 Co-Founder & Partner Gustavo Assumpção will serve as Executive Board Chair.
4×4 Capital has a strong track record of investing in and accelerating growth across the food and beverage sector through a value-creation playbook rooted in active ownership and close partnership with leadership teams.
“We are proud of what we accomplished in partnership with Golden Gate Capital and excited to begin this next chapter with 4×4’s hands-on partnership. Together, we look forward to investing in and enhancing our operations, guest experience, and brand—with a continued focus on stability, partnership, and long-term value creation,” said CEO Mickey Mills.
“What truly sets the Bob Evans brand apart is its distinctive hospitality, welcoming ambiance, and fresh, flavorful food—delivering real value for the whole family. We look forward to partnering with Mickey and the team to maximize long-term growth,” commented Gustavo Assumpção, Executive Board Chair and 4×4 Co-Founder & Partner.
“We are truly grateful to the terrific team at Bob Evans for their strong stewardship of this iconic brand. We wish the team all the best as they enter their next phase of growth,” said Neale Attenborough, Managing Director at Golden Gate Capital.
Kroll’s Restaurant & Retail Investment Banking practice served as the exclusive advisor to Bob Evans Restaurants. Piper Sandler & Co. acted as advisor to 4×4 Capital.