With 27 years at Corky’s under his belt, Jimmy Stovall knows the ins and outs of the barbecue business. And by spearheading the recent acquisition of the entire Corky’s family of companies, the CEO can now add “owner” to his CV.
Stovall leads BBQVC Food Group LLC, which recently purchased Corky’s from an investment group led by Dobbs Equity Partners, Inc. BBQVC comprises Corky’s senior management executives and specifically selected private strategic investors who hope to keep the restaurant’s family culture strong going forward.
“We want to thank Dobbs Equity Partners for the tremendous work they’ve done the past three years to position the Corky’s family of businesses for long-term success and for giving us the opportunity to invest directly in the business we love so much,” said Stovall. “We are proud to be a Memphis family business and truly grateful for all of our incredible customers and employees, many of whom have been with us since we first opened in 1984.
“We like to say our people are our secret sauce and that goes for employees and customers alike. We look forward to continuing to serve up great Memphis BBQ and sides along with great service and atmosphere.”
Stovall began his barbecue career in college, manning the original Corky’s drive-through window, and worked as a waiter, assistant manager, and general manager before achieving his current role as CEO. He’s recognizable as the face of the brand through his efforts to grow the enterprise nationally via appearances on TV network QVC, and also led the creation of the Prime Time Strategic Partners perishable food fulfillment center.
The Corky’s organization boasts around 300 employees, with four company-owned restaurants in the Memphis area and four franchised locations outside the city. The brand sells products in more than 5,000 grocery stores across the country, and its fulfillment center ships over 1.5 million direct to consumer packages per year.
