Jiumaojiu International Holdings Limited acquires Big Way Hot Pot

Jiumaojiu International Holdings Limited has announced its acquisition of a 49% equity stake in Big Way Group Inc., a North American restaurant chain with operations under the Big Way Hot Pot brand. The transaction, valued at $43 million, indicates Jiumaojiu's strategic intent to expand its footprint into the competitive North American dining sector. Big Way Group Inc. is headquartered in Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada.

The acquisition agreement involves Jiumaojiu purchasing nearly half of the Big Way Hot Pot business, providing the Chinese restaurant giant with a substantial presence in the hot pot segment across North America. The deal's announcement was made on March 1, 2026, and signifies the company's first significant investment in the region, as it seeks to diversify its portfolio beyond its traditional markets.

By securing this stake, Jiumaojiu aims to leverage Big Way’s established market position and operational infrastructure in North America, allowing it to introduce its brand experience and efficiencies. This deal aligns with Jiumaojiu's broader strategy to enter international markets, diversify revenue streams, and mitigate concentration risks associated with its existing geographic markets in Asia.

For competitors, this move means heightened competition in the North American restaurant space, particularly in the niche hot pot sector. It reflects a growing trend among Asian dining companies to acquire stakes in established Western entities to gain immediate market access. This acquisition could lead to further investment in enhancing operational and marketing strategies to capture a larger share of the dining-out market.

As the deal progresses, regulatory approval is a likely requirement, given the cross-border nature of the acquisition and potential for antitrust considerations in local markets. The parties involved will aim for a smooth integration to kickstart joint operations as they target a broadened consumer base. The industry's response and potential strategic adjustments by competitors will be critical to watch in the coming months.