Little Rock, AR – (ArkansasBusiness.com) – Feb. 3, 2025 – Arkansas Business reported today that an entity owned by the Fowler Family of Jonesboro has acquired Dempsey Bakery of Little Rock. The report says there are plans to franchise the gluten-free bakery across the country. The report said financial terms weren’t disclosed.
The owner is identified as Friendly Bakery, LLC, which according to the report is led by Chris Fowler, former president of Fowler Foods. The Fowlers were known for their KFC and Taco Bell franchises.
The report said Fowler has hired Melissa Johnson as chief operating officer to help with the expansion.
The bakery’s founder and former owner Paula Dempsey will remain with the company as a consultant for the next three years, according to a news release announcing the deal.