Operations

Zaxby's co-founder acquires Georgia-based fast casual

Photo: Maepole

May 27, 2025

Zaxby's co-founder Tony Townley has purchased Maepole, an Athens, Georgia-based eatery serving customizable plates using locally sourced ingredients. The acquisition brings together Townley's leadership team, who helped grow Zaxby's from a single location to a national brand, with Maepole's founding partners and proven model of health-conscious, sustainable dining, Townley said in a company press release.

"As I searched for the next right thing, it became apparent that there's a clear and rising demand for food that's both convenient and health-focused," he said.

Founded in 2018 by chef and restaurateur Peter Dale (Five & Ten, The National, Condor Chocolates, Seabear Oyster Bar), Maepole has three locations.

"Peter Dale and his team have created something special with Maepole — combining quality food that's seasonal and sustainable," Townley said. "Our leadership team knows what it takes to expand a beloved regional brand responsibly, and we're excited to apply that experience to Maepole."

A key aspect of the acquisition is Townley's commitment to retaining Maepole's founding team as active partners in the brand's future.

"We deeply respect Peter's culinary vision and the authenticity he's brought to Maepole," Townley said. "Keeping him and his team closely involved ensures that as we grow, we stay true to the core values that made Maepole successful in the first place."

Rooted in the South, Maepole's commitment to seasonal menus means customers will not be eating raw tomatoes in January. It celebrates regional traditions with dishes like green beans and Vidalias, chow chow, collard greens, Hoppin' John, and mac & cheese, while also embracing the contrasting flavors of today's Southern culture — kimchi, quinoa and pibil-marinated pork, Dale said.

"It's gratifying to see Maepole embraced by the Athens community, and I'm excited to work alongside Tony and his team to thoughtfully expand our reach," he said. "Our vision has always been to bring this type of food to more communities like Athens. This partnership only bolsters our operational experience and dedication to maintaining our mission as we embark on this next chapter for Maepole."

Plans for expansion, including potential new locations and enhanced menu offerings, will be unveiled in the coming months.