Levine Leichtman Capital Partners (LLCP) announced that it has acquired Kilwins Quality Confections and Kilwins Chocolates Franchise, a franchisor, retailer, manufacturer and distributor of premium chocolate, ice cream and confectionery products.
First founded in 1947 and headquartered in Petoskey, Michigan, Kilwins has a heritage of combining products with good customer service to create a chocolate, ice cream and confectionery experience. The company currently operates over 150 location across 25 states, the majority of which are franchised operations.
“Kilwins has an incredible brand proposition, a compelling product portfolio, and a loyal customer base. We are strong believers in the long-term potential of Kilwins and are excited to work closely with the company’s management team to accelerate growth through continued franchise expansion, new channel opportunities, and additional product innovation,” said Andrew Schwartz, a Partner at LLCP.
“It has been a joy for Robin and I to have been a part of this Company for the last 43 years. Our caring, loyal franchisees are the basis of our long-term success, and the Kilwins team has made incredible products, built an exceptional platform and has successfully created meaningful and lasting experiences for our customers,” added Don McCarty, Owner of Kilwins. “As we look to the Company’s future, we are confident that LLCP has the resources and franchise experience to lead Kilwins in its next phase of growth, and will provide dynamic, thoughtful, and strong customer focus and leadership.”
LLCP is a private equity investor in the franchising and multi-unit sector, having invested in more than 25 brands during its time. These include food-related businesses such as Nothing Bundt Cakes, Mountain Mike’s Pizza, Wetzel’s Pretzels and Global Franchise Group.
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Editor, International Confectionery
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