PHOENIX—GE Capital's Franchise Finance businesshas provided $31 million to United Restaurant Group,LP in a combined sale-leaseback and refinancing. GECapital served as administrative agent and GE CapitalMarkets served as sole lead arranger and book runner onthe senior debt facility.

Based in Richmond, VA, URG is the second-largest franchisee ofTGI Friday's. It owns and operates 29 restaurantsin Virginia, Delaware, North Carolina and South Carolina. The fundswill be used to eliminate debt, continue reimaging projects andprepare for future growth. GE Capital has been a lender to thecompany since 2011.

“We work with GE Capital because they understand the franchisebusiness as well as our vision for the company,”says Tony Grillo, president and CEO of URG.“The new structure allows us to accelerate our operationalstrategies, including remodeling, which will result in higher valueto our partners.”