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Darden Bets Tex-Mex Future: Chuy’s Buy
Darden completes an all-cash $605 million acquisition of Chuy's, signaling a strategic push into Tex-Mex within a growing multi-brand platform.
Apr 20, 2026
Photo by Jason Leung on Unsplash
Darden completes an all-cash $605 million acquisition of Chuy's, signaling a strategic push into Tex-Mex within a growing multi-brand platform.
Apr 20, 2026
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Darden acquires Chuy's for $605M, expanding Tex-Mex and off-premises strength, signaling a new growth path for the restaurant giant.
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Explore how Drew Martin's vast experience and digital innovation as the Chief Information Officer at Fat Brands will drive technology advancements and boost the company's growth.
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With over 35 years of valuable experience in the information technology sector, Drew Martin brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his new role as the Chief Information Officer at Fat Brands. His previous title as the Senior Vice President and CIO at Jack in the Box not only highlights his seniority in the field but also underscores his capability to lead technology-driven initiatives at prominent companies.
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One of Drew Martin's primary objectives at Fat Brands is to implement scalable technology solutions that will propel the company's growth trajectory. With a robust pipeline of over 1,000 units planned or in development, Martin's strategic vision and technological acumen are poised to enhance operational efficiency and elevate the overall guest experience for the brand.
Martin's extensive experience working with Fortune 500 firms, startups, and leading companies like Lytx, Sony, and PepsiCo, underscores his deep understanding of digital innovation. His tenure at Silicon Beach Advisors, where he spearheaded digital transformation initiatives and supported significant business transactions such as the sale of Jenny Craig, showcases his ability to drive technological evolution and digital growth within organizations.
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Thayer Wiederhorn, the COO of Fat Brands, acknowledges the valuable contribution Drew Martin brings to the table through his consumer-focused approach and emphasis on digital innovation. Martin's proficiency in technology platforms is set to play a pivotal role in enhancing guest experiences, streamlining operations, and fostering long-term growth across Fat Brands' diverse portfolio of brands.
Photo by Sten Ritterfeld on Unsplash
The recent appointment of Drew Martin as the Chief Information Officer coincided with the promotion of Taylor Wiederhorn to the role of co-CEO, alongside Ken Kuick. These strategic moves within the company signify a shift towards a more technology-driven and growth-focused approach under Martin's leadership, highlighting a new phase of innovation and development at Fat Brands.