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The iconic Australian chicken chain El Jannah - beloved for its charcoal chicken and famously addictive garlic sauce - has just undergone one of the country’s biggest fast-food deals. In a near billion-dollar acquisition, the brand has reportedly been purchased by U.S. private equity giant General Atlantic, marking a major turning point in El Jannah national expansion story.
El Jannah Acquired in Billion-Dollar Deal by U.S. Firm General Atlantic
According to The Financial Review, U.S.-based private equity firm General Atlantic has acquired a controlling stake in El Jannah in a deal valued at close to $1 billion. This makes it one of the largest acquisitions in the Australian quick-service restaurant sector.
General Atlantic is known for backing global brands and previously invested in Australian disability and aged-care platform Mable. The acquisition is expected to fast-track El Jannah’s nationwide expansion and strengthen its position against major competitors like KFC, Oporto, and Red Rooster.
CEO’s Response to the Sale
El Jannah CEO Brett Houldin declined to disclose specific details but confirmed the company’s excitement:
“We’re delighted to have found a partner aligned with the Estephan family, management and our franchisees. We’re looking forward to the next chapter in El Jannah’s story.”
Despite the acquisition, both the Estephan founding family and Houldin are expected to remain deeply involved in the business.
History of El Jannah: From Humble Beginnings to National Fame
El Jannah’s rise is one of Australia’s most celebrated multicultural success stories.
Founded in 1998 in Granville, Western Sydney
The brand was created by Andre and Carole Estephan, Lebanese immigrants who wanted to bring the flavours of their homeland to Australia. What began as a single charcoal chicken shop in Granville quickly attracted loyal customers thanks to its authentic Middle Eastern flavours, especially its legendary garlic sauce (toum).
Early Family Business Roots
Before launching El Jannah, the Estephans co-owned another Granville chicken shop - Awafi -with Andre’s sister Samira and her husband, Simon Azzi. After the families parted ways, the Estephans started what would become the El Jannah empire.
Today, the chain:
- Employs over 2,000 staff
- Operates multiple stores across NSW, ACT & VIC
- Is on track to become one of Australia’s fastest-growing fast-food brands
Founders of El Jannah
- Andre Estephan – Co-founder
- Carole Estephan – Co-founder
The Estephan family remains closely involved in day-to-day operations and maintains a significant ownership stake even after the General Atlantic acquisition. Their hands-on leadership is a core reason El Jannah has preserved its authenticity while scaling nationally.
El Jannah CEO (2025): Brett Houldin
El Jannah rapid growth has been steered by CEO Brett Houldin, who joined the brand after previously leading major Australian food chains. Under his leadership, El Jannah:
- Opened dozens of new outlets
- Launched drive-through formats
- Rolled out national expansion plans
- Positioned the brand for acquisition
Houldin is expected to continue as CEO post-acquisition.
El Jannah Locations and Expansion Plans
Before its acquisition, El Jannah announced aggressive growth targets - plans that are expected to accelerate under General Atlantic.
150 New Restaurants Planned Nationwide
The chain intends to expand across:
- Queensland (Noosa to the Gold Coast corridor)
- South Australia (Adelaide and surrounding regions)
- Continued growth in New South Wales, Victoria, and ACT
Drive-Through Focus
Post-COVID consumer trends drove El Jannah to prioritize drive-through locations, which the company says have been “hugely successful.”
El Jannah Menu: The Dishes That Made Them Famous
El Jannah cult following is anchored by a menu that blends Lebanese flavours with classic Australian fast food.
Signature Menu Items
- Charcoal Chicken (the star of the brand)
- Garlic Sauce (Toum) – arguably the most famous in Australia
- Tabouleh & Fattoush Salads
- Shawarma & Chicken Rolls
- Burgers, Chips & Family Packs
- Falafel, Hummus & Middle Eastern Sides
Its combination of authentic Lebanese flavours, affordable pricing, and generous servings helped El Jannah stand out in a crowded fast-food market.
What the Acquisition Means for Australia’s Fast-Food Scene
General Atlantic reportedly beat out heavyweight bidders including:
- Goldman Sachs Asset Management (JPMorgan advisory)
- BGH Capital (advised by Barrenjoey Capital Partners)
This signals the company’s aggressive investment strategy in the region and highlights El Jannah’s massive commercial potential.
Expected Outcomes
- Faster national expansion
- More drive-through locations
- Greater competition with KFC, Red Rooster & Oporto
- Enhanced franchise opportunities
- Increased brand visibility across Australia
Will El Jannah Food and Culture Change?
Despite concerns about foreign ownership, early indications suggest El Jannah will keep its identity:
- The Estephan family remains heavily involved
- The CEO is staying in position
- The chain has repeatedly stated its commitment to quality and authenticity
The acquisition appears focused on scale and infrastructure, not changing the beloved recipes.
Conclusion
El Jannah billion-dollar acquisition marks a historic milestone for the Australian fast-food industry. From a small family-run shop in Western Sydney to a nationwide charcoal chicken powerhouse, El Jannah continues to embody the Australian dream.
With bold expansion plans, new capital, and strong leadership, the brand is poised to become one of Australia’s largest fast-food chains - without losing the Lebanese heritage and flavour that made it iconic.
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About the Author
Praise Graciebby is a content creator on Essie Book Blog, where she writes celebrity biographies, sports updates, gossip, and trending news. With a passion for entertainment and lifestyle journalism, Praise provides readers with simple, accurate, and up-to-date profiles of public figures worldwide.
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