Bob Evans
Family restaurant chain known for breakfast and country cooking.
PE-OWNED
Acquired by Golden Gate Capital2017-01-01
What Made It Great
Down-home cooking and farm-fresh breakfast for the whole family.
What PE Will Likely Do
Portion sizes for Bob Evans' signature breakfast items like their famous sausage and pancakes will be reduced while prices remain the same or increase
Lower quality, frozen ingredients will replace fresh, farm-fresh produce and meats in Bob Evans' recipes to cut costs
The variety of menu items at Bob Evans will be reduced, with a focus on only the highest-margin dishes
Staffing in Bob Evans' kitchens and dining rooms will be cut back, leading to slower service and potentially less attentive staff
The homestyle, down-home feel of Bob Evans restaurants will gradually be lost as the brand's focus shifts to maximizing profits
Expected Timeline
“0 to 6 months months”
Minor changes to menu pricing and some ingredient substitutions begin
“6 to 12 months months”
Portions start getting noticeably smaller, with fewer menu options available
“12 to 24 months months”
Regular customers start complaining about declining food quality and longer wait times
“24 to 36 months months”
Numerous Bob Evans locations begin closing as brand reputation suffers
“36+ months months”
Potential bankruptcy or sale of Bob Evans to another operator that may attempt to revive the brand
Similar Cases
Other companies that followed a similar path after PE acquisition
What You Can Do
Actions
Be on the lookout for changes to your favorite Bob Evans menu items, like smaller portions or lower quality ingredients
Consider trying new local or independent restaurants that may provide a more authentic, high-quality dining experience
Voice your concerns about declining quality to Bob Evans management, and consider switching to competitors if the changes become unacceptable
Alternatives
Publicly traded restaurant group
Support local businesses in your area