Family-Owned Whataburger Sold to Private Equity Company BDT Capital Partners | Eater Austin

"A family-founded burger chain launched in 1950 by Harmon Dobson in Corpus Christi, it has grown to more than 800 locations across Texas and nearby states and is known for a larger-than-usual signature burger — famously big enough to require two hands — and the exclamation “What a burger!”. The Dobson family has sold a majority stake to private equity firm BDT Capital Partners while retaining a minority share, with the transaction expected to be finalized later in the summer (financial terms not disclosed). The new ownership aims to expand the chain to new audiences and potentially to the East and West coasts, the Midwest, and other northern states; headquarters will remain in San Antonio. Leadership changes accompany the deal: current president and CEO Preston Atkinson and board chairman Tom Dobson will step away from daily operations but stay on the board, and longtime CFO and controller Ed Nelson will become president starting July 1. BDT’s portfolio focus on partnering with family- and founder-led companies (including Peet’s Coffee, Krispy Kreme, Casa Dragones, and Weber Grills) signals a growth-oriented, brand-focused strategy for the chain." - Nadia Chaudhury