KBP Brands has significantly expanded its presence in the quick service restaurant sector after acquiring 78 Sonic Drive-In locations across Ohio, Kentucky, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. The transaction increases the company’s Sonic portfolio to 164 restaurants across eight states and positions the franchise operator as the fourth largest franchisee within the Sonic system.
The acquisition represents the company’s second Sonic deal in less than two years and builds on a growing partnership with Inspire Brands. KBP first entered the Inspire ecosystem in 2021 when it added Arby’s restaurants to its portfolio. Sonic later joined the group in 2024, quickly proving to be a strong addition that delivered encouraging operational results.
Chief Executive Officer Mike Kulp said the company’s expanding footprint reflects the success of the partnership and the strength of the Sonic brand. “We’ve had a successful five year partnership with Inspire Brands and have seen strong results from our initial Sonic purchase,” Kulp said. “We look forward to expanding that with a larger footprint and additional operational efficiencies.”
KBP Brands has grown steadily into one of the largest franchise organizations in the United States, generating approximately $1.5 billion in annual sales and operating more than 1,100 restaurants across 32 states. Kulp attributes the company’s two decades of consistent growth to its ability to integrate new brands and locations quickly while maintaining strong relationships with franchisors and using data driven operations to guide performance.
The acquisition will also bring approximately 1,600 employees into the KBP organization. Executive Vice President Mark Everett will continue to oversee the company’s Sonic business, working alongside Chief Operating Officer Matt Hansen to support operations and expansion across the growing drive-in network. Sonic brand president John Kelly praised the partnership, noting that the companies share a commitment to innovation and guest satisfaction while continuing to expand the brand’s long term growth potential.
