Helping people and companies reach their potential

About Roark

Being a good investor and being
 a good firm are two different things. We want to be both.

 

We are an Atlanta-based private equity firm specializing in franchise and franchise-like business models. Our portfolio companies span multiple sectors including restaurants, business and consumer services, health and wellness, and education and youth activities. 

For 25 years, we have been guided by the same core values ... do what’s right and long-term smart, regardless of conventional wisdom … even when it’s hard, and even when no one is looking. 

We view investing as a team sport. Our goal is shared success, for customers, employees, franchisees, strategic partners, service providers, management teams, and shareholders.

 

Economic Contribution
$ 100 Billion
Annual System Sales

Everyday Brands

Our portfolio companies provide essential services people and businesses can’t live without or don’t want to live without.
Global Reach
117 ,000
Total Locations
118 Countries
A third of the locations in our portfolio are outside the U.S.
Employment Expansion
300 ,000
Jobs Created
New Jobs
Our companies employ more than 1.4 million people across our systems, creating jobs as they grow.

OUR INVESTMENT PHILOSOPHY

We’re growth investors. We have a focused investment strategy that provides pattern recognition and a deep belief in win-win partnerships. We partner with market-leading companies and management teams and believe in value creation through operational excellence. 
Jo Kirchner Headshot
Disclaimer: Ms. Kirchner is not an investor in any Roark fund and did not receive any compensation for providing this statement. Roark does not believe there are any material conflicts of interest on the part of Ms. Kirchner resulting from Ms. Kirchner’s relationship with Roark.
We have deep pride in being affiliated with a partner who shares our values. Roark has stayed true to their values and their clarity about why companies exist, what really matters in life, and the best way to grow successful, profitable business.
Jo Kirchner
Former CEO & Current Chairwoman, Primrose Schools

Our Portfolio Companies

Divisions Maintenance Group
Business & Consumer Services
School of Rock
Education & Youth Activities
Arby's
Franchise/Multi-Unit
Orangetheory Fitness
Health & Wellness
Dunkin'
Restaurant & Food
Inspire Brands
Platform Companies See all Portfolio Companies

Our Core Values

People Watching a Speech - Accountability Accountability
Woman Walking Down Hallway with Quote Analytical
Team members in meeting Collaboration
Two men looking at computer Commitment
Woman with Brown Hair Talking Communication
Man Smiling Expectations
2 Men and 1 Woman in conversation Improvement
Woman Smiling Integrity
Wall with Quote "We Recognize and Rewqard Hard Work, Results, Posivity, Teamwork, Imporvement, and Living Our Core Values" Recognition
2 men listening to someone speak Responsibility
two men in conversation Transparency
Dog with Dunkin and Dog Toys Trust

From our founder

Our greater purpose reminds us to appreciate who we work hard for each day … when Roark does well, more kids go to college, more research gets done for curing disease and the people who protect our streets and teach our kids get a better life.
Neal Aronson
Founder and Managing Partner, Roark