Accountancy firm advises Karali Group on third straight acquisition

PKF Smith Cooper has advised Karali Group on its third consecutive acquisition, securing 19 sites of Mediterranean restaurant chain The Real Greek.

Acting in a competitive and time-sensitive distressed M&A process, Karali Group acquired the majority of The Real Greek estate, ensuring continuity at key locations across the UK and safeguarding 358 jobs.

Founded in 1999, The Real Greek is a well-established Hellenic restaurant brand specialising in traditional Greek and Mediterranean cuisine.

The acquisition represents a strategic expansion of Karali Group’s portfolio of established UK hospitality brands.

The transaction marks a further milestone in Karali Group’s journey, following its acquisitions of Côte Brasserie and the UK business of Marugame Udon, on which PKF Smith Cooper also acted as advisor.

PKF Smith Cooper provided due diligence and wider deal advisory services, led by its specialist Transaction and Advisory Services team.

The core team comprised David Nelson, Tom Sinden, Deniss Sipovics, Brendan Nightingale and Amrit Singh (pictured), alongside Corporate finance director and sector specialist David Crump.  Jack Bonehill (employment tax director) and Kate Donlon (employment tax manager) also provided specialist employment tax due diligence support.

David Nelson, senior partner at PKF Smith Cooper, said: “We are delighted to have supported Karali Group in securing a future for 19 of The Real Greek sites, as part of our third transaction together.

“Our long-standing relationship with the Karali team allowed us to act decisively in a complex process, delivering a smooth transaction. We wish them every success with The Real Greek going forward.”

Karali Group was advised on the legal aspects of the deal by James Davison, Victoria Procter and Lydia Demnitz-King of Katten Muchin Rosenman UK LLP.

Pictured from left to right: David Nelson and Tom Sinden