Luna Grill, a pioneer in the luxe-casual Mediterranean restaurant segment, announced Monday that it has received an equity investment from PWP Growth Equity specifically targeted to spur growth in both existing and new geographies. PWP Growth Equity is the middle market private equity group of Perella Weinberg Partners, investing in leading, growth-oriented, lower middle market companies. Financial terms of the equity investment were not disclosed.
Sean and Maria Pourteymour founded Luna Grill in 2004 and have since grown it into a premier Mediterranean restaurant concept with 38 company-owned units across Southern California and the Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas metropolitan area with additional sites under construction. Luna has pioneered the luxe-casual segment by offering a healthy, inviting and differentiated experience positioned between the fast-casual and full-service models while providing passionate and hospitable customer service.
“This investment will allow us to continue the rapid yet measured growth we have experienced over the past few years. PWP Growth Equity has a tremendous track record of success, including deep consumer sector expertise, and we are thrilled to partner with Chip Baird and David Ferguson, Co-Founders of PWP Growth Equity, as we enter new markets and build Luna Grill into a leading national brand in the Mediterranean restaurant category,” says Sean Pourteymour, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Luna.
Chip Baird says, “We are excited to partner with Sean, Maria and the entire Luna Grill team. The Company’s leadership and strong culture make Luna ideally positioned to capture positive trends in both healthy Mediterranean cuisine and the upscale, fast-casual restaurant category. Luna Grill found a niche in catering to consumers seeking convenient and authentic high-end food, and the Company’s unique menu offerings translated into strong affinity ratings from legions of ‘Luna-tics’ throughout numerous markets.”
“This is an important milestone for Luna Grill and we are grateful to our dedicated team members who are responsible for our incredible success by striving every day to inspire others to feel good by eating real food crafted with care,” says Pourteymour.
W Partners acted as exclusive financial adviser to Luna Grill and Financo acted as exclusive financial advisor to PWP Growth Equity in this transaction.
