Condado Tacos, the award-winning taco joint specializing in unique tacos, tequilas and margaritas, today announces its partnership with The Beekman Group LLC, a private equity firm based in New York City.
Condado plans to accelerate growth by bringing its build-your-own taco concept to guests across the country who are craving a convenient, relaxed hangout spot that celebrates creativity and fresh ingredients. This partnership creates opportunities for Condado to expand into new markets beyond its Midwest roots and grow in its existing communities. Condado also plans to further invest in the professional development of its team members.
“The Beekman Group’s strong track record of success, coupled with their warmth and sincerity — both in
seeking to understand Condado as well as committing to what makes the concept unique — made them the obvious choice for an investment partner,” said Joe Kahn, founder and CEO of Condado. “We’re excited to see what this next phase with Beekman will bring and look forward to many years of growth and continued success.”
With 15 locations in six markets across four states, Condado resonates with a broad audience through its
come-as-you-are vibe and emphasis on delivering high-quality food and service. With plans for national
expansion, Condado’s growth goals include adding six to eight new restaurants annually. Each location will continue to highlight the local community through the brand’s distinct and vibrant street-art decor. In 2020, Condado will open seven new locations, including entering a new market in Dayton, Ohio and adding a second location in Detroit, Michigan.
“We’re thrilled to partner with Condado Tacos in the continued mission of creating dining experiences where uniqueness is celebrated,” said Chris Artinian, Managing Director at The Beekman Group. “Joe along with the Condado team, has created an exciting brand with a differentiated experience serving up Tacos and Tequila to a broad audience in a fun upbeat atmosphere. We are looking forward to a great partnership while supporting Condado Tacos in its next phase of growth.”
BMO Capital Markets advised Condado on the transaction, while Calfee, Halter & Griswold LLP provided legal counsel. The Beekman Group was represented by Akerman LLP.
About Condado Tacos
Condado Tacos opened in 2014 with its first location at 1227 North High Street, Columbus, Ohio. Since its founding, the brand has added 15 locations in Columbus, Pittsburgh, Indianapolis, Detroit, Cleveland and Cincinnati — with more on the way in 2020. Condado Tacos specializes in creating unique tacos, tequila and margaritas at affordable prices. Condado has perfected the build-your-own model by letting guests choose exactly what they want — from the toppings to the protein (or lack thereof), all the way down to the creatively-stuffed taco shell. Condado Tacos prides itself on fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Condado is the recipient of multiple awards including Smart Business Magazine’s 2019 and 2020 Pillar Awards for Community Service and the 2018 Central Ohio Smart 50 Award. The brand has also been named to top lists including Thrillist’s Best Tacos in Ohio and Columbus Alive’s Best Tacos in Columbus, among others.
About The Beekman Group
The Beekman Group is a private equity firm based in New York City, dedicated to partnering with management teams to grow companies into market-leading businesses. Beekman manages more than $800 million of capital and has access to additional capital through strategic co-investment relationships. Beekman focuses on lower middle market investments in service-related sectors, including consumer, healthcare and business services.
Beekman partners with management teams who strive to become significant owners by creating meaningful value and accelerating growth initiatives. The Beekman team consists of experienced private equity professionals, as well as a select group of Operating Advisors, who are leading executives in Beekman’s targeted industry segments. This approach to investing is the cornerstone of Beekman’s investment strategy: bringing financial and operational resources to lower middle-market companies in order to accelerate growth and create value for all shareholders.
