TGI Fridays Will Go Public Through Merger With Its U.K. Franchisee Hostmore

TGI Fridays and Hostmore, the chain’s U.K. franchisee, announced plans to merge on Tuesday.

The all-share deal is valued at 177 million pounds, or $220 million. If it closes, TGI Fridays, best known for its potato skins, chicken wings and endless appetizers, will be publicly traded on the London Stock Exchange under the ticker “TGIF.”

The company’s headquarters for its U.S. and global brand operations will remain in Dallas, Texas. CEO Weldon Spangler, who has led the company since October, will keep his current role.

Read the source article at CNBC