Katie Lee

Orlando, Fla. — The chief operating officer of Sonny’s BBQ, Billy Brewer, and its chief brand officer, Peter Frey, share their key learnings from 2023 that have positioned the brand to remain top of its class through an enhanced guest experience, training and development for team members, strengthening foundational operations, and delivery on quality and value. Sonny’s BBQ has made meaningful progress and remained competitive despite industry-wide struggles to drive in-store traffic since the pandemic. As guest preferences continue to shift toward more off-premise dining options, Sonny’s BBQ prioritized the …

Pabst Farms, Wis. — Clean Juice®, the first and only USDA-certified organic juice and food bar franchise, has opened its newest store in Pabst Farms, Wis., the first in the state. Franchise owners Claudia and Charlie Wiggins will officially open their new store on Dec. 2, situated in the township of Oconomowoc.  “We believe wholeheartedly in the all-organic movement and are thrilled to be a part of the Clean Juice family,” says Claudia Wiggins. “Our family is honored not only to bring Clean Juice into Pabst Farms but also to …

Las Vegas — Focus Brands®, the parent company of Auntie Anne’s®, Carvel®, Cinnabon®, Jamba®, McAlister’s Deli®, Moe’s Southwest Grill® and Schlotzsky’s®, is capitalizing on franchise growth in the non-traditional sector, now boasting more than 2,000 non-traditional units across the country. Building on this momentum are two newly signed agreements in the Las Vegas market. Mother-daughter entrepreneurial team Vicki Richardson and Leila Day, of JV Ventures, recently opened an Auntie Anne’s location inside of Allegiant Stadium. This location adds to their non-traditional portfolio including two Auntie Anne’s at the Las Vegas …