Arby's Buys Minneapolis-Based Buffalo Wild Wings​

MINNEAPOLIS, MN — Buffalo Wild Wings has a new owner. Arby’s has purchased the casual dining restaurant for approximately $2.9 billion, including its net debt, the companies announced Tuesday.

Buffalo Wild Wings was founded in 1982 and is headquartered in Minneapolis. When the transaction is finalized, Buffalo Wild Wings will be a privately-held subsidiary of Arby’s and will continue as an independent brand. There are currently more than 1,250 Buffalo Wild Wings locations in 10 countries.

"Buffalo Wild Wings is one of the most distinctive and successful entertainment and casual dining restaurant companies in America,” Paul Brown, Chief Executive Officer of Arby’s, said in a statement. “We are excited to welcome a brand with such a rich heritage, led by an exceptionally talented team. We look forward to leveraging the combined strengths of both organizations into a truly differentiated and transformative multi-brand restaurant company.”

Buffalo Wild Wings CEO Sally Smith said the merger "will enable us to capitalize on significant growth opportunities in the years ahead."

Photo credit: AP Photo/Wilfredo Lee, File