ZJD, a strategic investment group, and Branded Capital Solutions, a subsidiary of Branded Hospitality, have announced the launch of F&B Capital, a new capital markets firm focused on serving the franchise ecosystem. The joint venture aims to provide tailored financial and strategic advisory services to franchisors, franchisees, and related operators seeking flexible growth and ownership solutions.
Based in Chicago, F&B Capital will specialize in growth equity raising, structured credit, minority recapitalizations, and mergers and acquisitions advisory. The firm is designed to address a gap in the market by helping franchise businesses access capital without requiring majority or full-company sales.
The leadership team includes Zack Fishman as Managing Partner representing ZJD and Jimmy Frischling as Managing Partner representing Branded Capital Solutions. The broader team also includes Brad Fishman, Jake Fishman, Michael “Schatzy” Schatzberg, and Evan Veryard, bringing together experience across franchising, investment, and hospitality operations.
The firm’s strategy focuses on supporting franchise brands and operators that need capital or strategic guidance while maintaining ownership control. Rather than running traditional auction-style sale processes, F&B Capital aims to deliver customized solutions aligned with each client’s growth stage and long-term objectives.
ZJD contributes entrepreneurial and investment expertise with a long-term approach to scaling franchise businesses. Branded Capital Solutions adds capabilities across M&A advisory, structured capital, and strategic partnerships, along with operational experience as restaurant owners and hospitality investors.
The launch comes at a time when many franchise businesses are evaluating financing strategies for expansion, infrastructure modernization, and ownership transitions. F&B Capital positions itself as a partner for stakeholders navigating these decisions with a focus on flexible, growth-oriented outcomes.
KEY QUOTES:
“F&B Capital was created to meet the real-world capital needs we continue to see across the franchise landscape. There are many strong franchisors and franchisees that do not need or want a majority sale, but still require thoughtful access to capital or strategic advisory support. We see a meaningful opportunity to help operators and brands secure the right financial solutions to support ownership transitions, fund growth, and strengthen their businesses for the long haul.”
Zack Fishman, Managing Partner, F&B Capital (on behalf of ZJD)
“Branded Hospitality has always believed in backing the people and companies building the future of hospitality franchising. With F&B Capital, we combine sector knowledge, transactional experience, and industry connectivity to offer franchises a highly focused advisory platform. We believe this venture fills an important gap for brands and operators seeking sophisticated capital solutions tailored to their specific stage of growth and ownership goals.”
Jimmy Frischling, Managing Partner, F&B Capital (on behalf of Branded Capital Solutions)
