Aegis Brands Inc. finalized a new development line of credit (DLOC) from CWB Franchise Finance, a CWB Financial Group partner company, for $22 million. The DLOC will be used to continue Aegis' growth in Canada's food service industry through acquisition. The DLOC is available for 36 months and is subject to a variable interest rate of prime plus 2.75 percent.
The DLOC from CWB, in addition to an existing and unused $2 million line of credit, presents Aegis with the resources it needs to invest in food service companies across the country and expand its presence in the food and beverage industry. Aegis intends to use these funds for new acquisitions and growth of existing and acquired brands. Aegis may finance acquisitions through a combination of an equity raise, CWB debt and issuing Aegis stock to the vendors of any brand joining the Aegis roster.
"It is important to the future of the acquired brand, and shareholders of Aegis, that entrepreneurs stay involved and can participate in the growth of Aegis post-closing. Alignment is prerequisite for any deal we will look at" said Steven Pelton, President and CEO of Aegis Brands Inc.
"We're happy to receive this line of credit from CWB, one of Canada's leading lenders in the restaurant and hospitality space," said Pelton, "Not only does this line of credit give us the ability to acquire great brands in the F&B space, but it is also an acknowledgement of Aegis's strategy of assembling great brands, and great leaders and allowing them to grow with our support. Additionally, Aegis will be able to capitalize on the exceptional track record and experience the board and management already possess in this sector.
2021 has proven that consumers are eager to return to restaurants and food service locations, creating an opportunity to invest in the food industry. The hospitality industry is expected to make a strong comeback, with full-service restaurant sales expected to grow from $25.6 billion in 2021 to $35.2 billion in 2022, according to Restaurants Canada. Meanwhile many quick service brands have seen steady or increasing revenue since the middle of 2020. The outlook for Fast Casual and QSR brands that have embraced delivery, order ahead and other digital enhancements adopted during the pandemic looks promising.
"We know that Aegis is ready for significant growth as they expand in the food and beverage space," said Jacob Mancini, Assistant Vice President, Restaurant & Brewery Finance at CWB. "The company's success with Bridgehead is a testament to their commitment to the industry. We look forward to strengthening this already beneficial relationship as they continue to grow."
With 20-plus years of experience in the restaurant industry, CWB is a lender to the Canadian hospitality industry. To date, it has invested over $3.5 billion in the Canadian restaurant and hotel space, with more than 900 clients.
Aegis Brands Inc. currently owns and operates Bridgehead Coffee.