The Chalak Group Acquires 11 unit, Dallas-based Concept, Baker Bros American Deli

DALLAS, Nov. 17, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- The Chalak Group, Inc. (TCG), announces today that it has officially acquired the 11 unit, Dallas-based, fast casual concept, Baker Bros American Deli. The Chalak Group are also owners of the largest Mongolian stir-fry chain, Genghis Grill, an 80 unit, fast-casual concept featuring a Build Your Own Bowl theme. TCG bought the concept from its founder, Ken Reimer, former CEO of Tony Roma's for an undisclosed amount.

The Chalak Group was confident in acquiring a young, growing concept such as Baker Bros American Deli due to its experience with Genghis Grill. Looking at the same infancy path Genghis Grill was on many years ago, and recognizing Baker Bros American Deli's similar footsteps, TCG envisioned it as another growth vehicle for its team. TCG plans on focusing its primary efforts on its leading brand Genghis Grill, and as a result, pleased to add industry veterans Henry Leonard and Jimmy Salas, to lead growth and development. Leonard and Salas' main focus will be to re-energize the brand and stage it for regional growth.

"We expect great synergies between our brands and feel that Baker Bros will provide growth avenues for our people in the organization", said Al Bhakta, President and CEO of The Chalak Group, Inc., "with Henry and Jimmy as our key assets, we are confident that Baker Bros is in good hands. "

President, Henry Leonard has been working with Bhakta and his team to set a clear cut direction for Baker Bros prior to the transaction's closing. Leonard who has been in the restaurant industry for over 40 years and was the former President of the largest Mazzio's Pizza franchisee, former COO of Texadelphia, and most recently, the CEO Rockfish of Seafood Grill.

"The Chalak Group is the ideal partner for the future of Baker Bros and a great fit for the Baker Bros team.  We're going to be able to leverage Genghis Grill's unique positioning for real estate deals. Both brands will glean increased buying power through shared vendors and realize common infrastructure benefits as the brands grow. The possibilities are endless and we're honored to be teaming with Al and the Chalak community!" said Leonard.

Assisting Leonard at the Baker Bros. corporate level will be Vice President of Operations, Jimmy Salas, a former McDonald's multi-unit operator and Head of Training and HR, Melissa Dominguez.

Started in 1999, Baker Bros America Deli is a fast-casual deli chain that serves award-winning salads, oven-baked sandwiches served on specialty breads, stuffed baked potatoes and gourmet pizzas. At Baker Bros, a passion for food, a passion for service and an unwavering commitment to serving guests are the highest quality values in their segment. Please visit www.bakerbrosdeli.com for more information.

The Chalak Group is a dynamic business organization comprised of 5 young, energetic entrepreneurs. As the ultimate driving force behind Genghis Grill's fast and smooth growth in a downturn economy, The Chalak Group knows what it means to take one restaurant concept from its infancy to the next level. The Chalak Group is also invested in 33 Yum! Brands units with Kentucky Fried Chicken, Taco Bell, and Long John Silvers.

Please visit www.chalakgroup.com for more information.

Media Contact: Chiara Granado, 214.382.0049 at [email protected]

SOURCE The Chalak Group, Inc.