Artistry Restaurants Acquires Hickory Tavern: A Strategic Move in the Hospitality Industry
Discover how Artistry Restaurants' acquisition of Hickory Tavern is reshaping the restaurant landscape and expanding its brand portfolio.
Expanding Footprint and Brand Portfolio
Artistry Restaurants, based in Winter Park, Fla., made a significant move by acquiring the 20-unit Hickory Tavern casual-dining concept. Founded in 1997, Hickory Tavern has been a beloved gathering spot for locals in North Carolina and South Carolina. This acquisition marks Artistry's expansion into these states for the first time, bolstering its total managed locations to 50 and making Hickory Tavern the seventh brand in the company's diverse portfolio.
Strategic Fit and Industry Impact
Bryan Lockwood, CEO of Artistry Restaurants, highlighted the seamless fit of Hickory Tavern within their brand portfolio, emphasizing Hickory Tavern's reputation for top-notch service and community engagement. This strategic acquisition is set to enhance Artistry's presence in the hospitality industry, showcasing the company's commitment to offering unique dining experiences and further solidifying its position in the market.
Key Leadership Appointment
With the acquisition, Artistry Restaurants named Paul Zito as the President of the Hickory Tavern brand. Zito, known for his expertise in revitalizing establishments and building high-performance teams, brings valuable experience to elevate Hickory Tavern's standing in the market. Reporting to Jason Brooks, Artistry's COO, Zito's leadership is poised to drive growth and innovation within the brand.
Strategic Growth and Expansion Plans
The acquisition of Hickory Tavern aligns with Artistry Restaurants' strategic vision for growth and diversification. This move comes on the heels of the company's announcement of the upcoming launch of The Chapman, a new dining concept in Winter Park, Fla. By expanding its brand portfolio with innovative concepts, Artistry demonstrates its commitment to evolving with the changing landscape of the restaurant industry.
Diverse Brand Portfolio
In addition to Hickory Tavern, Artistry Restaurants operates five other acquired brands, including Oak & Stone, Shrimp Basket, Boca, Atlantic Beer & Oyster, and Sandbar Amelia Island. This diverse portfolio reflects the company's adaptability and foresight in curating a range of dining experiences to cater to different market segments and consumer preferences.
