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When the Philippines-based Jollibee Food Corp. bought a majority stake in the Smashburger chain earlier this year, that left investment firm Consumer Concept Group with a 15-percent stake in the fast-casual chain, as well as ownership of the four-unit eatertainment concept Tom’s Urban.
Last month, Consumer Concept Group rebranded as Black Shamrock Partners, and the investment and operating company has plans for expansion, said Tom Ryan, a partner in Black Shamrock and CEO of Smashburger.
Ryan — who is partnered in Black Shamrock with Quiznos-founder Rick Schaden, the investment firm’s chairman, and his cousin Brooks Schaden — sees opportunity in the sort of lifestyle experiences that will get consumers off their couches and out to dine, drink and play — as well as watching other people play.
Since Ryan founded it in 2012, Tom’s Urban has evolved into a restaurant and interactive sports bar with “big watch opportunities,” one where guests would gather to watch various events, from professional and college sports or the Kentucky Derby, to live music or possibly e-sports, Ryan said.
“The big opportunity here is to make those types of game...