Lexington, Kentucky, February 11, 2026
A Kentucky-based developer has acquired 11 former Frisch’s Big Boy locations for over $17 million, reflecting a significant change in the local dining scene. The acquisition comes in light of Frisch’s closures in Ohio and Kentucky due to operational challenges. Although specific redevelopment plans for the properties have yet to be disclosed, the move is anticipated to revitalize these sites and offer new dining options to the community.
Lexington, Kentucky – Developer Acquires 11 Former Frisch’s Locations for Over $17 Million
Lexington, Kentucky – A Kentucky-based developer has purchased 11 former Frisch’s Big Boy restaurant locations for a total exceeding $17 million. This acquisition follows a series of closures and evictions of Frisch’s establishments in the region, marking a significant shift in the local dining landscape.
Details of the Acquisition
The developer, whose identity has not been publicly disclosed, finalized the purchase of the 11 properties previously operated by Frisch’s Big Boy. The total transaction value surpasses $17 million, reflecting the developer’s commitment to revitalizing these sites. The specific locations involved in the acquisition have not been specified in the available information.
Background on Frisch’s Big Boy Closures
Frisch’s Big Boy, a regional chain with a history dating back to 1939, has faced significant challenges in recent years. In November 2024, multiple Frisch’s locations in Ohio and Kentucky were closed or set for closure due to eviction actions related to unpaid rent. This situation was partly attributed to the company’s sale-leaseback agreements, which led to increased annual rent obligations that became difficult to manage amid rising operational costs. By December 2024, at least a dozen Frisch’s Big Boy restaurants in Kentucky, including both locations in Lexington, had been ordered to close.
In response to these challenges, a group of senior management, led by Frisch’s franchising area coach Don Short and vice president of operations Cheryl White, acquired the remaining open restaurant locations and future development rights for the brand. This move aimed to preserve the legacy of Frisch’s Big Boy and continue its operations under new leadership.
Implications for the Local Community
The acquisition of these former Frisch’s locations by the Kentucky developer is expected to have a significant impact on the local community. The developer has indicated plans to repurpose the properties, potentially introducing new dining options and services to the area. However, specific details regarding the redevelopment plans have not been disclosed. The community anticipates that these changes will bring renewed vitality to the sites and offer residents and visitors new choices for dining and entertainment.
Conclusion
The purchase of 11 former Frisch’s Big Boy locations for over $17 million by a Kentucky developer signifies a notable development in the region’s commercial real estate and dining sectors. As Frisch’s continues to navigate its operational challenges, the community looks forward to the potential revitalization of these properties and the opportunities they may bring.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who is the Kentucky-based developer that acquired the former Frisch’s locations?
The identity of the Kentucky-based developer has not been publicly disclosed.
2. What is the total value of the acquisition?
The total transaction value exceeds $17 million.
3. Which Frisch’s Big Boy locations were included in the acquisition?
The specific locations involved in the acquisition have not been specified in the available information.
4. Why did Frisch’s Big Boy close multiple locations in Ohio and Kentucky?
Frisch’s Big Boy faced closures and evictions due to unpaid rent, partly attributed to sale-leaseback agreements that led to increased annual rent obligations amid rising operational costs. By December 2024, at least a dozen Frisch’s Big Boy restaurants in Kentucky, including both locations in Lexington, had been ordered to close.
5. What are the plans for the properties acquired by the Kentucky developer?
The developer has indicated plans to repurpose the properties, potentially introducing new dining options and services to the area. However, specific details regarding the redevelopment plans have not been disclosed.
Key Features of the Acquisition
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Properties Acquired | 11 former Frisch’s Big Boy locations |
| Total Acquisition Value | Over $17 million |
| Developer’s Identity | Not publicly disclosed |
| Frisch’s Big Boy Closures | Multiple locations in Ohio and Kentucky closed due to unpaid rent and eviction actions |
| Redevelopment Plans | Potential introduction of new dining options and services; specific plans not disclosed |
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