Piccolo Me’s parent company, the Fabe Group, has expanded its presence in the Australian cafe market with the acquisition of South Australian chain Bean Bar. The deal, finalised earlier this year, brings five Adelaide locations into the Fabe portfolio as it builds momentum in regional markets. The move reflects a strategic intent to combine established local brands under one broader franchising network to drive growth and operational support.
Founded in Adelaide in 2001, Bean Bar has developed a loyal following for its coffee and casual menu offerings. With four franchised stores and one company-owned location, the business adds depth to Fabe’s existing food and beverage brands, which include Piccolo Me, SolBowl and Go Dark. The acquisition provides Piccolo Me with an established footprint in South Australia and immediate access to local franchise experience.
The former owner of Bean Bar, Nitin Jakhwal, will remain with the company as State Manager. In this role, he will oversee day-to-day operations, support current franchisees, and contribute to growth initiatives in the state. Jakhwal expressed enthusiasm for the transition, noting his confidence in the energy and passion that Fabe brings to the brand’s next chapter.
Fabe’s Group General Manager, David Ciantar, said the acquisition aligns with the company’s broader growth strategy and complements its planned store openings in other regions. Leadership has emphasised continuity and support for existing franchisees during the handover period to ensure stability and business momentum.
The acquisition also contributes to Fabe’s national scale, lifting its total store count and reinforcing its position as a multi-brand operator in the competitive cafe sector. With plans to expand Piccolo Me to at least 20 stores in the Adelaide area over the next three years, the group is signalling confidence in both local demand and franchisee appetite for growth in Australia’s thriving food and beverage landscape.
