Executive Movements - February 2025
Brinker International Appoints Timothy (TJ) Johnson to its Board of Directors
Feb 18, 2025, 16:30 ET
DALLAS, Feb. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Brinker International, Inc. (NYSE: EAT), one of the world's leading casual dining restaurant companies and home of Chili's® Grill & Bar and Maggiano's Little Italy®, today announced the appointment of Timothy (TJ) Johnson to its Board of Directors.
Brinker International appoints Timothy (TJ) Johnson to its Board of Directors.
Johnson is a financial, strategic, and operational leader with more than 30 years of experience with consumer-facing, global retail brands and more than a decade of experience as a public company Chief Financial Officer. He has served as Chief Financial and Chief Administrative Officer for Victoria's Secret & Co (VS&Co) since 2021 leading up to his recently announced retirement planned for June 2025. Prior to VS&Co, he served as the Chief Financial and Chief Administrative Officer for Big Lots. He started his career in public accounting at Coopers & Lybrand, followed by corporate finance roles at then Limited Brands. Johnson has previous public company board experience, having served on the board of directors of The Aaron's Company. Johnson qualifies as a financial expert and has significant experience in financial planning and analysis, strategy development, accounting, investor relations, capital allocation, mergers and acquisitions, and risk management.
"TJ's strategic and financial expertise in managing national and global consumer brands will help Brinker continue to improve our guest experience at our restaurants and maintain leadership in the industry," said Joe DePinto, Brinker's Chairman of the Board. "He adds leadership depth, experience and insight to our Board of Directors that will promote continued growth in long-term shareholder value."
About Brinker International
Brinker International, Inc. is one of the world's leading casual dining restaurant companies and home of Chili's® Grill & Bar, and Maggiano's Little Italy.® Founded in 1975 in Dallas, Texas, we've ventured far from home, but stayed true to our roots. Brinker owns, operates or franchises more than 1,600 restaurants in the United States, 27 other countries and two U.S. territories. Our passion is making everyone feel special, and we hope you feel that passion each time you visit one of our restaurants or invite us into your home through takeout or delivery. Learn more about Brinker and its brands at brinker.com.
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Torchy’s Tacos Appoints Paul Macaluso as Chief Executive Officer
February 18, 2025
Restaurant industry leader brings more than three decades of experience driving results at respected brands
Torchy’s founder Mike Rypka to transition to Chief Innovation Officer
Austin, TX (RestaurantNews.com) Torchy’s Tacos (“Torchy’s”), a fast-casual restaurant known for their award-winning queso and “Damn Good” tacos, today announced that its Board of Directors has appointed Paul Macaluso as Chief Executive Officer, effective February 24, 2025. He succeeds founder Mike Rypka, who will transition into a new role as Chief Innovation Officer.
Mr. Macaluso has more than 30 years of experience building respected brands and driving business success across the restaurant industry. Most recently, he served as President and CEO of Another Broken Egg Cafe, a high-growth daytime-only restaurant concept, overseeing significant business and footprint expansion. He also previously held progressive marketing and leadership roles at GoTo Foods (formerly FOCUS Brands), a developer of global multi-channel foodservice brands, including President of McAlister’s Deli, as well as Senior Vice President leading brand marketing strategy for Auntie Anne’s, Carvel, Cinnabon, McAlister’s Deli, Moe’s Southwest Grill, and Schlotzsky’s. Mr. Macaluso has also served in senior brand and marketing positions at SONIC Drive-In and Burger King Corporation. The
Torchy’s Board of Directors commented, “After an in-depth search, we are thrilled to welcome Paul to Torchy’s. His long track record of delivering growth across iconic large-scale and up-and-coming restaurant brands makes him uniquely suited to lead Torchy’s through its next chapter." We
are also grateful to Mike for his dedicated leadership over the years and look forward to his continued contributions.”
Mr. Macaluso said, “I have long admired Torchy’s for its authentic culture and differentiated concept. I believe the business has significant potential for growth, and I look forward to partnering with the talented Torchy’s team to bring continued excitement and innovation to our guests.”
Mr. Rypka stated, “Since founding Torchy’s in 2006, we have always strived to deliver the best of the best. As we look ahead to our next phase of development, Paul is an enthusiastic, results-driven leader who shares our commitment to originality and guest experience. I am excited to work alongside him to grow the Torchy’s brand and continue building our ever-growing base of Taco Junkies.”
About Paul Macaluso
Paul Macaluso is a restaurant industry leader with more than three decades of experience driving results at large, national brands and high-growth regional brands. He most recently served as President and CEO of Another Broken Egg Cafe from 2019 to 2025, overseeing significant unit footprint expansion and sales growth. He also held a variety of senior leadership, progressive marketing, and brand strategy positions at GoTo Foods (formerly FOCUS Brands) from 2011 to 2018, where he led sales and guest relevance initiatives for a portfolio that included McAlister’s Deli, Moe’s Southwest Grill, Schlotzsky’s, Carvel, Auntie Anne’s, and Cinnabon. Mr. Macaluso has also held senior brand strategy, menu development, and product marketing positions at SONIC Drive-In and Burger King Corporation. He began his career as a Restaurant General Manager with the Taco Bell Corporation in 1992 and went on to serve in various operations and marketing roles within the company over 10 years. Mr. Macaluso holds a BS and MBA from Florida State University.
About Torchy’s Tacos
Torchy’s Tacos is an innovative fast-casual restaurant known for their award-winning queso and “Damn Good” tacos. Founded out of an Austin, Texas food truck in 2006 by Mike Rypka, a former executive chef with a passion for innovative and experimental tacos, the concept has grown to over 130 locations across 16 states. Torchy’s commitment to delivering unique and delicious food is steadfast – all the food and drinks are made-to-order, using fresh, high-quality ingredients. For more information, visit TorchysTacos.com.
Kelia Bazile To Lead Carrabba’s Italian Grill
February 17, 2025 09:00 AM Eastern Standard Time
TAMPA, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Kelia Bazile has been promoted to President of Carrabba’s Italian Grill where she will be responsible for leading the operations and development for more than 190 Carrabba’s locations. Carrabba’s offers authentic Italian cuisine passed down from the restaurant’s founders’ family recipes. It’s one of four brands in the Bloomin’ Brands (Nasdaq: BLMN) portfolio.
“Kelia has a proven track record of creating and maintaining high executional standards that drive sales and a warm guest experience,” said Mike Spanos, CEO of Bloomin’ Brands, Inc. “She builds strong teams with a hospitality-first mindset and is a true servant leader.”
Bazile joined Bloomin’ Brands in 2012 as a Joint Venture Partner at Carrabba’s and was promoted to Regional Vice President in 2014. In 2022, Bazile was promoted to Vice President of Operations, where she helped drive sales and profits through elevating the guest experience as well as a focus on off-premises and catering. In 2024, she moved to Bonefish Grill as Vice President of Operations.
Prior to Bloomin’ Brands, she spent 28 years at Taco Bell, where she worked her way from an hourly team member to a Market Leader where she led operations for over 170 restaurants. Bazile holds a Bachelor of Applied Business Administration and a Master of Business Administration from Dallas Baptist University.
About Bloomin’ Brands, Inc.
Bloomin' Brands, Inc. is one of the largest casual dining restaurant companies in the world with a portfolio of leading, differentiated restaurant concepts. The Company’s restaurant portfolio includes Outback Steakhouse, Carrabba's Italian Grill, Bonefish Grill and Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar. The Company owns, operates or franchises more than 1,450 restaurants in 46 states, Guam and 13 countries, some of which are franchise locations. For more information, please visit bloominbrands.com.
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Sonny’s BBQ Names George McAllan as New Chief Growth Officer
February 7, 2025
Industry leader to drive operational excellence and ignite brand’s growth
Orlando, FL (RestaurantNews.com) Sonny’s BBQ, the industry-leading BBQ restaurant rooted in quality food and spreading kindness, announced today the addition of George McAllan, new Chief Growth Officer, to the Sonny’s leadership team. George brings decades of experience working in both the franchisor and franchisee roles.
“George’s extensive experience leading operations for some of America’s most-loved restaurant brands is an incredible asset to our team as we continue to expand our footprint and serve our famous BBQ to fans across the South and beyond,” said Jamie Yarmuth, Sonny’s BBQ CEO. “George will serve
an important role overseeing the systemwide operations to support the growth and profitability of our brand in the coming years. I look forward to working hand-in-hand with him as we continue to strengthen and develop all facets of operations at Sonny’s BBQ.”
Before joining Sonny’s, George spent the past five years serving as chief operations officer with two different franchisee groups, leading up to 350 restaurants during his tenure. He’s also worked on the franchise side of the business and served a variety of roles with Dunkin’ Brands, including as international vice president responsible for 4,000 Dunkin’ and Baskin Robbins restaurants in South Korea, Japan, China and Latin America. In these previous roles he’s been responsible for operations, development, marketing, and increasing sales and profitability.
“Sonny’s BBQ is a brand I have long admired and loved for its commitment to kindness, Southern culture, and of course its incredible menu of slow-smoked BBQ with all the fixins’,” said George McAllan. “ I look forward to supporting the entire Sonny’s team and share our commitment to providing a great customer experience. It’s an exciting time to join Sonny’s BBQ and I am proud to be a part of this great and storied restaurant brand.”
Growth will be a core pillar for Sonny’s BBQ in 2025, with George playing a leading role. Amid economic challenges, Sonny’s aims to strengthen its market presence and continue its legacy of serving quality BBQ by attracting qualified franchise candidates to expand its franchise network. It will also focus on meeting guest expectations for personalization, convenience and the unmatched hospitality Sonny’s BBQ is known for.
For more information about Sonny’s BBQ, visit SonnysBBQ.com or follow along on Facebook, Instagram, X, TikTok and YouTube. Franchise opportunities can be found at SonnysBBQfranchise.com.
Media assets can be found HERE.
About Sonny’s BBQ
With nearly 100 locations spanning the southeast, Sonny’s BBQ® is one of the largest barbecue restaurant brands in the country. Its signature pulled pork, sweet tea, and unique appetizers have afforded the restaurant the title of “Best Barbecue Chain in America” by The Daily Meal. Floyd “Sonny” Tillman and his wife, Lucille, founded Sonny’s BBQ in 1968 in Gainesville, Fla. in hopes of creating a local BBQ joint for their community to enjoy. 55 years later, Sonny’s BBQ continues to do just that under the direction of CEO Jamie Yarmuth and local pitmasters spreading the spirit of BBQ in each of their communities through the Q the Kindness and Random Acts of BBQ initiatives. The brand gives back more than $1.2 million annually across the eight states it serves, and reaches tens of thousands of community members with its generosity. Sonny’s BBQ is a leader in the hospitality industry with its commitment to creating unique consumer experiences, ability and willingness to utilize cutting-edge technology, and network of successful franchisee relationships. For information and to find the Sonny’s BBQ location closest to you, please visit SonnysBBQ.com.
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White Castle names Melissa Palmisciano Vice President, General Counsel
Feb 11, 2025, 11:57 ET
Palmisciano joined the company in 2018 after a distinguished military career and is the first female to hold the top legal position at White Castle
COLUMBUS, Ohio, Feb. 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- White Castle, the pioneer of The Original Slider® and renowned restaurant and consumer packaged goods (CPG) brand, announced that Deputy General Counsel Melissa Palmisciano has been promoted to vice president and general counsel.
Palmisciano, who joined White Castle as corporate counsel in 2018 and has provided key legal leadership in areas including intellectual property, real estate, litigation and employment law, will fill the role formerly held by new White Castle President Anthony Joseph.
Melissa Palmisciano will fill the role formerly held by new White Castle President Anthony Joseph.
"Melissa sets a high standard through the tenacity and diligence she exhibits to model White Castle's value of continuous improvement," Joseph said. "Her clarity of thought and strong work ethic will serve her well as she steps into her new role. She's a great partner and source of support for her fellow leaders at White Castle, and a tremendous contributor to our efforts to be a great place to work."
Palmisciano, a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy and The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law, joined White Castle after a distinguished career of over 21 years of combined active duty and reserve service in the U.S. Marine Corps. She retired as a Lieutenant Colonel in 2020 after serving as an intelligence officer, defense counsel, prosecutor and staff legal adviser. After leaving active duty, she practiced law in the Columbus offices of BakerHostetler and Jones Day.
"I'm excited for the opportunity to serve as White Castle's next vice president and general counsel," Palmisciano said. "During my time in the Marine Corps, I learned that effective leadership requires decisiveness, clear communication and a strong focus on continuous improvement. I'm thankful to be part of a team at White Castle that is focused on our mission of 'creating memorable moments' for our customers and team members for generations to come — and looking forward to what I'm able to contribute through my new role."
Palmisciano enjoys spending time with her husband, Matt, and their three children — one of whom is following in her mother's footsteps as a cross-country runner studying at the U.S. Naval Academy. Palmisciano also currently serves on the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation board of directors.
About White Castle®
White Castle, America's first fast-food hamburger chain, has been making hot and tasty Sliders since 1921. Based in Columbus, Ohio, the family-owned business owns and operates about 340 restaurants as well as a retail division providing its famous fare in freezer aisles of retail stores nationwide. As part of its commitment to offering the highest quality products, White Castle owns and operates its own Slider Provider meat plants, bakeries and frozen-Slider retail plants. White Castle has earned numerous accolades over the years including Time magazine's "Most Influential Burger of All Time" (2014, The Original Slider®) and Thrillist's "Best Plant-Based Fast-Food Burger" (2019, Impossible™ Slider). In 2021, Fast Company named the fast-food pioneer one of the "10 Most Innovative Dining Companies." White Castle is known for the legendary engagement of its team members and has received the Great Place to Work® Certification™ for an extraordinary four consecutive years spanning 2021–2024. White Castle is beloved by its passionate fans (Cravers), many of whom compete each year for entry into the Cravers Hall of Fame. The official White Castle app makes it easy for Cravers to sign up for the CRAVER NATION REWARDS™ loyalty program, access sweet deals and place pickup orders at any time. For more information on White Castle and how to Follow Your Crave, visit whitecastle.com.
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Erin Walter Steps into Chief Marketing Officer Role at Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers
Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers has appointed Erin Walter as the new Chief Marketing Officer (CMO), marking a significant step for the fast-casual restaurant chain's marketing strategies and business growth.
Feb 11, 2025 - 13:40
Erin Walter
The fast-casual restaurant, Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers, recently announced the promotion of Erin Walter to the position of Chief Marketing Officer (CMO). Walter, in her new role, will manage all aspects of the company's marketing strategies in close collaboration with the executive team. The main focus of her leadership will be to increase brand recognition, guest engagement, and overall business expansion.
Walter brings more than two decades of industry experience to the role. She was appointed Vice President of Brand Marketing at Freddy's in 2021 and previously held several roles at Global Franchise Group, including Director of Marketing for Round Table Pizza. Freddy's President & CEO, Chris Dull, expressed confidence in Walter's strategic vision, creativity, and her ability to take Freddy's to new heights.
Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers is a leading fast-casual franchise with over 550 locations across 36 states in the U.S. The brand offers a unique combination of cooked-to-order steakburgers, all-beef hot dogs, shoestring fries and other savory items, along with freshly churned frozen custard treats.
Panera Bread Announces Santhosh Kumar as Chief Information Officer
February 06, 2025 08:00 AM Eastern Standard Time
ST. LOUIS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Panera Bread, a leader and pioneer in the fast casual restaurant industry, today announced that Santhosh Kumar has joined the company as Chief Information Officer, effective February 12, reporting to Interim CEO Paul Carbone. Kumar will lead the company’s technology organization, responsible for the development, integration and deployment of technology across more than 2,200 Panera cafes. In his new role, Kumar will partner with the Panera Bread leadership team and franchisees to drive an exceptional team member and guest experience.
“I’m thrilled to welcome Santhosh to the Panera Bread leadership team”
“I’m thrilled to welcome Santhosh to the Panera Bread leadership team,” said Paul Carbone, Interim CEO, Panera Bread. “As the technology landscape continues to evolve, Santhosh brings the right combination of strategic technology expertise, industry experience and proven ability to build high-performing teams that will help drive Panera’s continued success.”
A seasoned IT executive and expert in digital transformation, Kumar brings deep expertise in core application modernization, retail POS and in-store systems and electronic payment technologies. Kumar joins Panera from United Natural Food, Inc. (UNFI), where he led a multi-year warehouse transformation
teprogram and cloud modernization and migrations resulting in significant operational efficiencies and cost savings for the company. Prior to UNFI, Kumar spent nearly 21 years at Dunkin’ Brands, Inc., including as SVP of IT, leading the IT team globally through several retail and digital innovation initiatives. This included the rollout of new point-of-sale and back-office systems across all USA restaurants; as well as the development and launch of Dunkin’s loyalty program.
“Panera Bread has a strong history as a technology leader in the restaurant industry,” said Santhosh Kumar, Chief Information Officer, Panera Bread. “I am proud to join an already outstanding team and to continue Panera’s relentless focus on creating the most seamless and efficient experience for our team members and guests.”
About Panera Bread
Our first cafe opened in 1987, founded with a secret sourdough starter and the belief that the best part of bread is sharing it. That vision led to the invention of the Fast Casual category with Panera at the forefront, serving as America's kitchen table centered around our delicious menu of chef-curated recipes that are crafted with care by our team members. We make food that we are proud to serve our own families, from crave-worthy soups, salads and sandwiches to mac & cheese and sweets. Each recipe is filled with ingredients we feel good about and none of those we don't because we are committed to serving our guests food that feels good in the moment and long after. While our company is now more than 2,200 cafes strong, our values and belief in the lasting power of a great meal remain as strong as ever. We spend each day filling bellies, building empowered teams and inspiring communities. Nothing beats breaking bread together.
As of December 31, 2024 there were 2,216 cafes, company and franchise, in 48 states and Washington D.C., and in Ontario, Canada, operating under the Panera Bread® or Saint Louis Bread Co.® names. Panera Bread is part of Panera Brands, one of the largest fast casual restaurant companies in the U.S., comprised of Panera Bread®, Caribou Coffee® and Einstein Bros.® Bagels. For more information, visit panerabread.com or find us on X (@panerabread), Facebook (facebook.com/panerabread) Instagram (@panerabread) or TikTok (@panerabread).xt View source version at Panera
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Dine Brands Announces Executive Leadership Changes
Dine Brands CEO John Peyton to serve as Interim Applebee’s President
Tony Moralejo to Step Down as Applebee’s President
February 05, 2025 04:00 PM Eastern Standard Time
PASADENA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dine Brands Global, Inc. (NYSE: DIN), the parent company of Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar®, Fuzzy’s Taco Shop®, and IHOP®, today announced that Tony Moralejo will step down as Applebee’s President, effective March 4, 2025, and will serve as an advisor to the company through June 4, 2025. John Peyton, CEO, Dine Brands, will assume the role of Interim Applebee’s President while continuing in his current capacity.
“It has been an absolute honor and privilege to serve as President of this exceptional brand. Leading this remarkable team and working alongside our dedicated franchise partners over the past two years has been an incredible experience”
"Tony and I share a deep respect for the DNA of Applebee’s and we are all grateful for his contributions since he took on this role two years ago. He has navigated a challenging economic environment, led an outstanding team, and strengthened our relationships with franchisees. I’m incredibly thankful for his leadership—he embodies what great leadership looks like. I look forward to
building on his work and accelerating our plans to grow the brand and achieve superior results," says John Peyton, Dine Brands CEO.
" It has been an absolute honor and privilege to serve as President of this exceptional brand. Leading this remarkable team and working alongside our dedicated franchise partners over the past two years has been an incredible experience," added Tony Moralejo, departing Applebee’s President.
The company has initiated a nationwide search for a new leader for Applebee’s with proven expertise in brand stewardship, restaurant operations and marketing. In the meantime, Peyton will oversee the brand, collaborating with the executive team and franchisees to capitalize on growth opportunities across key areas, including digital experience, menu innovation, in-restaurant dining, off-premise, and domestic expansion.
Peyton, a seasoned brand executive, joined Dine Brands in January 2021 as CEO and brings a proven track record in operations, development, and franchisee relations. Before joining Dine Brands, he served as President and CEO of Realogy Franchise Group, following a 17-year tenure as a senior executive at Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide, Inc. A recognized leader in global branding, he has extensive experience in managing large, complex organizations, driving growth at scale, and fostering innovation while maintaining operational flexibility.
About Dine Brands Global, Inc.
Based in Pasadena, California, Dine Brands Global, Inc. (NYSE: DIN), through its subsidiaries, franchises restaurants under Applebee's Neighborhood Grill + Bar®, IHOP® and Fuzzy's Taco Shop® brands. As of September 30, 2024, these three brands consisted of over 3,500 restaurants across 19 international markets. Dine Brands is one of the largest full-service restaurant companies in the world and in 2022 expanded into the Fast Casual segment. For more information on Dine Brands, visit the Company's website at www.dinebrands.com.
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Fogo de Chão Announces Appointment of New Chief Marketing Officer
Georgeanne Erickson Joins the International Brand Amid Continued Growth
February 05, 2025 09:00 ET
DALLAS, Feb. 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Fogo de Chão, the internationally renowned restaurant from Brazil known for its elevated churrasco dining experience, today announced the appointment of Georgeanne Erickson as its new Chief Marketing Officer. In this role, Georgeanne will lead the company’s global marketing strategy, brand evolution, menu innovation and guest engagement initiatives as Fogo continues its strategic expansion.
Georgeanne has extensive marketing and advertising experience, with over a decade in the restaurant industry, specifically. Most recently, she served as the U.S. Chief Marketing Officer of Krispy Kreme. Her expertise in brand building, customer experience and digital transformation complements Fogo’s continued growth plans and its commitment to delivering exceptional dining experiences and fostering strong guest connections.
“As Fogo continues to expand its footprint domestically and abroad, we are thrilled to welcome Georgeanne to our executive leadership team,” said Barry McGowan, Chief Executive Officer of Fogo de Chão. “Her strategic vision and proven expertise in brand building will be instrumental in shaping the future of Fogo and enhancing our ability to connect with guests in meaningful ways.”
For over 45 years, Fogo has honored its rich Brazilian heritage while continuously evolving through menu innovation and technological advancements across all facets of the company. Under Georgeanne’s marketing leadership, Fogo will further enhance its brand strategy, leveraging innovation to deepen guest engagement and strengthen customer loyalty. The launch of Fogo’s first national loyalty program to build frequency and a new marketing campaign to drive brand awareness are both slated for 2025.
“I’m honored to join a beloved brand at an exciting time in its evolution,” said Georgeanne. “Fogo de Chão’s rich heritage, unique dining experience, and passionate community of guests provide an incredible foundation for innovation and growth. I look forward to working alongside the talented team to drive brand expansion and introduce more people to Fogo.”
Prior to her tenure at Krispy Kreme, Georgeanne spent nearly a decade at Pizza Hut, ultimately ascending to the role of Chief Brand Officer. Earlier in her career she also held marketing and advertising roles at Romano’s Macaroni Grill and advertising agency GSD&M. Georgeanne holds a Bachelor of Science in Advertising from The University of Texas at Austin.
Georgeanne succeeds Janet Gieselman who spent more than a decade with Fogo, six years of which she served as Chief Marketing Officer. Janet’s retirement was announced December 2024 following a distinguished career spanning over 25 years in the restaurant industry.
About Fogo de Chão
Fogo de Chão (fogo-dee-shown) is an internationally renowned restaurant from Brazil that elevates the culinary art of churrasco – the art of roasting high-quality cuts of meat over an open flame – into a cultural dining experience. Fogo is famed for its prix fixe Full Churrasco Experience that offers a continuous selection of premium cuts butchered daily by gaucho chefs, simply seasoned and grilled to create a craveable salty bark, then carved tableside. The naturally gluten-free Market Table offers a selection of seasonal salads, charcuterie, exotic fruit, superfoods and more. From celebratory to everyday occasions, Fogo provides selections for every daypart, including All-Day Happy Hour at Bar Fogo, Weekday Lunch, Dinner, and Weekend Brazilian Brunch. Guests can enhance their experience with offerings ranging from a shareable Wagyu New York Strip, South American wines, and more. For locations and to book a reservation to experience the fire of Fogo, visit fogo.com.
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Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard Bolsters Leadership Team to Propel Growth
February 12, 2025
Seasoned executives Lawrence Brown and Carmela Hughley to drive development, innovation and brand expansion
Philadelphia, PA (RestaurantNews.com) Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard is strengthening its leadership team with the addition of two seasoned industry veterans, reinforcing the brand’s focus on growth and innovation.
Lawrence Brown joins as Chief Development Officer, bringing a proven track record in franchising, business development and real estate strategy. Carmela Hughley steps in as Senior Vice President of Marketing Insights and Innovation, bringing deep expertise in brand growth, operations and customer engagement. Together with CEO Linda Chadwick, they will shape the next phase of expansion for the iconic frozen treat brand.
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SMOOTHIE KING APPOINTS CLAUDIA SCHAEFER AS NEW CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER
Jan 29, 2025, 07:00 ET
DALLAS, Jan. 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Smoothie King, the world's largest smoothie brand and the first health and fitness fast casual brand of its kind, today announced the appointment of Claudia Schaefer as the company's new Chief Marketing Officer. With an exceptional track record in transforming and elevating well-known restaurant and retail brands, Claudia brings a wealth of experience in driving revenue growth, enhancing profitability, and elevating the customer experience, making her the ideal leader to guide Smoothie King into its next phase of growth.
Schaefer will oversee all marketing efforts for Smoothie King, where she'll focus on further defining the brand's purpose and positioning by leveraging consumer insights to ultimately drive traffic and accelerate sales growth.
"Claudia's expertise in brand-building and strategic marketing will be critical as we continue to strengthen our brand and drive growth in 2025 and beyond," said Wan Kim, CEO of Smoothie King. "We've built some very meaningful momentum in recent quarters, and with Claudia's leadership, I believe we are poised to make 2025 our best year yet. We're so excited to welcome her to the Smoothie King team."
"I'm thrilled to join Smoothie King, a brand whose mission to encourage healthier, more active lifestyles resonates deeply with me," said Claudia Schaefer. "I look forward to leveraging my experience to build on this purpose, connect with our guests in new and meaningful ways, and help drive the brand's continued growth in 2025 and beyond."
Schaefer joins Smoothie King from her most recent role as Chief Experience Officer at Caliber, the $6B parent company of Caliber Collision, where she was instrumental in positioning and marketing the Caliber brand while delivering a seamless and differentiated guest experience. Prior to her tenure at Caliber, Schaefer served as the CMO of multiple QSR and CDR brands, including Jamba and Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen. During both tenures, she successfully increased traffic and sales through strategic marketing efforts focusing on relevance and differentiation. Her past experience also includes significant leadership roles at Brinker International, parent company of Chili's Bar & Grill, where she worked in both marketing and culinary innovation across domestic and global markets.
Smoothie King's new CMO hire follows the brand's most recent quarterly business update and year- end recap. In 2024, Smoothie King opened 84 new stores, including signed agreements for new store openings across 24 states and 39 DMAs. The fourth quarter of 2024 alone saw the opening of 25 stores nationwide, including the opening of the brand's 1,200th domestic store and continued expansion across Chicago – one of the brand's fastest-growing markets. Smoothie King is setting its sights on an even bigger year in 2025 with accelerated growth, forecasting 105 new store openings across the country.
For more information about Smoothie King and franchise opportunities, visit www.smoothiekingfranchise.com.
About Smoothie King Franchises, Inc.
Smoothie King, the original U.S. smoothie franchise—founded in 1973—is a privately held, Dallas-based company with over 1,200 stores nationwide.
The brand is committed to its mission to inspire a healthy and active lifestyle through its Clean Blends initiative, which focuses on providing great-tasting smoothies with more whole fruits and vegetables while removing artificial flavors, colors and preservatives and added sugars in many of its blends. In April 2023, Smoothie King launched Smoothie Bowls, topped with whole fresh fruit and premium Purely Elizabeth™ granola, made with wholesome ingredients, non-GMO fruits and packed with flavor and nutrients. Smoothie King also offers retail products that include sports beverages, energy bars, vitamins, supplements and more.
Repeatedly recognized as a top franchise opportunity, Smoothie King was recently ranked #11 in Entrepreneur's 2024 Top Brands for Multi-Unit Owners, selected as one of the 16 Best Restaurant Franchising Deals for 2024 by QSR Magazine, and recognized in QSR Magazine's QSR 50 ranking as one of the Top 50 Fast-Food Chains by Sales. The brand was also featured in the top 100 of Technomic's annual America's Favorite Chains data, which resulted in ranking #8 in Nation's Restaurant News' "America's Favorite Chains" list, an analysis of Technomic's data.
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Panera Bread Announces Brian Krause as Chief Development Officer
January 22, 2025 08:00 AM Eastern Standard Time
ST. LOUIS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Panera Bread, a leader and pioneer in the fast casual restaurant industry, today announced that Brian Krause has joined the company as Chief Development Officer. Krause will be responsible for driving strategic new store growth for Panera Bread, leading development planning, franchise development and sales, design & construction and real estate. Krause joined the company on January 13 and reports to Interim CEO Paul Carbone.
An industry veteran in franchise development and sales, Krause joins the company from GoTo Foods where he oversaw growth-driving efforts for all seven brands including Auntie Anne’s, Jamba, Moe’s Southwest Grill, Schlotzsky’s and more. Previously, he worked at Inspire Brands serving as Chief Development Officer of Jimmy John’s Gourmet Sandwiches, responsible for franchising, real estate, development, and design and construction. Prior to that, Krause was Senior Vice President, Franchise Development for Wyndham Hotels and Resorts.
“Brian brings deep industry expertise in franchise sales and development, and I’m incredibly excited to welcome him to Panera at such a key time of growth,” said Paul Carbone, Interim CEO, Panera Bread. “With a simplified operating model and a variety of proven cafe formats, Panera is well-positioned to drive both company and franchise growth this year and beyond. As a proven leader and collaborator, Brian is exactly the right person to help accelerate our plan for new unit growth.”
Krause joins the company at a pivotal time for Panera as the company focuses on innovation and growth. The company is primed to drive new units this year via a range of cafe concepts, including a smaller format that allows entry into new locations while providing the familiar Panera experience guests know and love. The latest of this model recently opened in Monticello, MN and features a cafe layout designed to support convenience for off-premise and on-the-go guests, while continuing to offer a warm and welcoming environment for guests dining in.
“Panera Bread is an outstanding restaurant concept, and I look forward to working and collaborating with our team members, leadership and franchise partners to bring Panera Bread to more communities across the country,” said Brian Krause, Chief Development Officer, Panera Bread.
About Panera Bread
Our first cafe opened in 1987, founded with a secret sourdough starter and the belief that the best part of bread is sharing it. That vision led to the invention of the Fast Casual category with Panera at the forefront, serving as America's kitchen table centered around our delicious menu of chef-curated recipes that are crafted with care by our team members. We make food that we are proud to serve our own families, from crave-worthy soups, salads and sandwiches to mac & cheese and sweets. Each recipe is filled with ingredients we feel good about and none of those we don't because we are committed to serving our guests food that feels good in the moment and long after. While our company is now more than 2,200 cafes strong, our values and belief in the lasting power of a great meal remain as strong as ever. We spend each day filling bellies, building empowered teams and inspiring communities. Nothing beats breaking bread together.
As of December 31, 2024 there were 2,216 cafes, company and franchise, in 48 states and Washington D.C., and in Ontario, Canada, operating under the Panera Bread® or Saint Louis Bread Co.® names. Panera Bread is part of Panera Brands, one of the largest fast casual restaurant companies in the U.S., comprised of Panera Bread®, Caribou Coffee® and Einstein Bros.® Bagels. For more information, visit panerabread.com or find us on Twitter (@panerabread), Facebook (facebook.com/panerabread) Instagram (@panerabread) or TikTok (@panerabread).
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