Denver-based Rightway Brands, Inc., an innovative multi-concept franchising company, currently doing business as Smiling Moose Restaurant Concepts, is taking another bite out of the Denver sandwich scene. They announced their acquisition of Denver-based Zeps Epiq Sandwiches. This is Rightway Brands’ second acquisition of a fast-casual franchise in the past 20 months. The transaction closed the Friday before last on June 6. Terms of the deal were not announced.

“Zeps Epiq Sandwiches is an excellent fit within our brands here at Rightway Brands, Inc.,” says Rich Eisenberg, president and owner. “Zeps has built a great business with an extremely loyal following, and we are committed to continuing the practices that have made them successful since inception while also continuing to enhance the quality of this well-loved brand.”

Zeps Epiq first opened at 1147 Broadway in Denver in 2016. The name “Zeps Epiq” is based on the word zeppelin, another name for a long sub sandwich. The brand is a proud Coloradan concept. Their menu makes reference to many cities within the state, like the North Denver Dipper (pepperoni, ham, mozzarella, roasted peppers, sautéed onions and garlic aioli on a baguette with spicy marinara dipping sauce); the Boulderite (falafel, feta, hummus, roasted red pepper, cucumber, tomato, romaine, minted yogurt on baguette); and the Breckenridge Bourbon Steak Dip (grilled steak, cheddar, mushrooms, caramelized onions in a bourbon sauce with horseradish and au jus for dipping).

“We look forward to working with Michael Brenner, General Manager of Zeps, and his team to build upon the success they have already achieved,” says John Brown, senior vice president & head of business.  “We are excited to grow the Zeps Brand and are actively looking for a second site.”

This acquisition is significant for Rightway Brands, Inc. as it adds yet another brand to their already impressive portfolio. The corporation currently owns and operates three different concepts under the Smiling Moose umbrella including, the Rocky Mountain Deli, Sandwich Bar & Grill, and the Moose on the Loose mobile unit. According to Eisenberg, the brand is looking towards immense growth over the next few years both through franchising and corporate openings.

“The acquisition of Zeps provides current and potential franchisees with yet another strong concept within the Rightway Brands Portfolio,” says Eisenberg. “We are continuing to focus our efforts on profitable growth for all of our brands and we are particularly excited about Zeps as it provides us with an excellent starting point for further concept development and eventual expansion into other markets.”

Finance, News