Introduction
Mission BBQ is a fast-casual restaurant chain that specializes in American barbecue fare. With locations across the Eastern United States, Mission BBQ has become popular for its patriotic theme and focus on supporting local first responders. But who actually owns and operates the Mission BBQ restaurants?
The Founders of Mission BBQ
Mission BBQ was founded in 2002 by Bill Kraus and Steve Newton, two individuals with extensive business experience in the restaurant industry.
Kraus had previously been part of the team that launched Chipotle Mexican Grill in the 1990s. Newton had experience working with brands like Outback Steakhouse, TGI Friday’s, and Romano’s Macaroni Grill.
The two came together with the idea of launching a fast-casual barbecue concept that would honor America and give back to local communities. They opened the first Mission BBQ location in Glen Burnie, Maryland in 2011.
Mission BBQ is Privately Owned
Unlike many other restaurant chains, Mission BBQ has no corporate ownership or franchises. The company is privately owned by co-founders Kraus and Newton.
This private ownership allows Kraus and Newton to retain full control over the brand’s vision and operations. They do not have to answer to shareholders or franchisees.
Day-to-Day Operations
While Kraus and Newton founded Mission BBQ and remain owners, they have built an executive team to handle day-to-day operations:
- Bill Kraus, Co-Founder and CEO
- Steve Newton, Co-Founder and President
- Brett Lower, Chief Operating Officer
- David Crabtree, Chief Development Officer
This leadership team oversees the strategy, real estate, store openings, training, and marketing for the Mission BBQ brand. However, major decisions still require Kraus and Newton’s approval.
Ongoing Commitment to Culture
Despite growth over the past decade to over 90 locations, Mission BBQ remains committed to its original vision and principles.
Kraus and Newton instilled a strong company culture built around patriotism, community service, and appreciation for first responders and veterans. This is evident through Mission’s decor, events, and donations to local charities.
Even as more investors and stakeholders join Mission BBQ, Kraus and Newton are determined to protect this culture. They want to ensure every location stays true to the brand’s founding values.
Looking Ahead
Mission BBQ expects to keep expanding, with a goal of having 200 restaurants within the next few years. Kraus and Newton plan to maintain ownership and reject franchising as they grow.
While the company may bring on more investors or stockholders, Kraus and Newton appear committed to keeping decision-making power and culture oversight concentrated at the top.
So for the foreseeable future, the co-founders will continue leading Mission BBQ and shaping the brand’s vision from behind the scenes even as the business expands its geographical footprint. The focus remains on great barbecue, patriotic vibes, community support, and staying true to who they are.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mission BBQ’s Ownership
Here are some common questions about the ownership behind Mission BBQ:
Is Mission BBQ a franchise?
No, Mission BBQ is privately owned and does not franchise its restaurants. All locations are company-operated.
Are Bill Kraus and Steve Newton still involved?
Yes. Kraus and Newton founded Mission BBQ and remain actively involved as CEO and President. They oversee major decisions.
Does Mission BBQ have outside investors?
Mission BBQ has raised some outside capital to help fund expansion but Kraus and Newton maintain majority control.
Could Mission BBQ go public in the future?
It’s possible Mission BBQ could go public at some point to raise expansion capital while allowing Kraus and Newton to cash out a portion of their equity. But there are no definitive plans in place currently.
Is Mission BBQ still privately held then?
Yes, as of 2023 Mission BBQ remains a privately held company majority owned and controlled by founders Kraus and Newton.
How are new locations funded?
Mission BBQ relies on internal business revenue plus occasional outside investor capital to fund new store openings rather than traditional franchisee model.
Conclusion
In summary, Mission BBQ was founded and is still owned by original co-founders Bill Kraus and Steve Newton. They remain actively involved in overseeing the growing company as it expands while sticking to its culture and values around great food, patriotism, and community service. The future looks bright for this privately held barbecue chain owned by two passionate founders.