Craveworthy Brands has signed a deal to become a managing partner, investor and stakeholder of fast casual restaurant chain Big Chicken.

Big Chicken was founded in 2018 by Hall of Fame basketball player Shaquille O’Neal and is backed by JRS Hospitality and Authentic Brands Group. The chain has 40-plus locations open, with more than 350 in development.

As part of the agreement, Big Chicken will join Craveworthy’s portfolio of 15 brands. CEO Josh Halpern will continue overseeing the brand, working alongside Craveworthy Brands CEO and founder Gregg Majewski.

Craveworthy plans to drive long-term growth and reinforce the brand’s distinctive guest experience by providing expertise in operations, training, supply chain management, culinary development and customer service.

“As investors, managing partners and leaders in restaurant operations, we’re going to fully leverage the Craveworthy team’s deep industry expertise to propel Big Chicken to new heights,” said Majewski.

“By applying our platform’s operational excellence and strategic growth strategies, we’re ready to take the next step in shaping Big Chicken’s bright future – expanding the Brand’s reach, elevating the guest experience and driving innovation on all fronts,” he added.