SAN FRANCISCO — The former CEO of Cartridge World, Burt Yarkin accepted a position in June as managing director of the San Francisco branch of the private investment firm The McLean Group.With more than 25 years experience in the franchising industry, Yarkin has also held senior management positions with franchisors Gymboree and 1-800-Flowers. He also is a master franchise for Cartridge World in Northern California.

Virginia-based The McLean Group, LLC provides merger and acquisition (M&A), capital formation, market intelligence, business valuation, litigation support, and exit planning services for businesses.

Yarkin said he is looking to help invest in lower middle market deals in franchise chains, between $10 million and $200 million. "I bring a real-world practical experience in buying and selling franchise systems," he told Blue MauMau. He added, "There is a lot of money in the sidelines right now that is looking for good deals. The key is finding a good company to invest in."

Yarkin will assist both franchisors and large franchisee groups with capital formation, valuation services and financial consulting as necessary. McLean said that they anticipate that Yarkin will develop into a major player in franchise-related mergers and acquisitions on a national scale.