BK buys 72 stores from 32-year franchiseeBK buys 72 stores from 32-year franchisee

MIAMI Burger King Corp. said it has purchased 72 units in Iowa and Nebraska that were operated by Simmonds Restaurant Management, a franchisee of the concept since 1976. Terms were not disclosed.

Simmonds remains a franchisee of the Taco John’s and Jimmy John’s quick-service chains, Burger King said. Simmonds president and chief executive Michael Simmonds said the deal “coincides perfectly with my desire to simplify my life.”

The purchase allows the franchisor “to leverage our existing infrastructure and established brand presence” in the Omaha, Neb., and Des Moines, Iowa, areas, said Chuck Fallon, president of Burger King’s North American arm.

The company described the deal as part of its ongoing portfolio management strategy.

Burger King operates or franchises 11,400 hamburger restaurants worldwide.