McKinney, Texas — Dunkin’s newest store of the future opened its first next generation restaurant in McKinney, Texas, on April 25, 2019. The brand’s next generation design features a modern atmosphere and innovative technologies to make running on Dunkin’ faster and more convenient than ever before. New elements of the McKinney restaurant include: Modern Design: The openness, colors and materials used in the design help to create an approachable, positive and energetic environment. Premium Pours: Dunkin’s signature cold beverages are now served through an innovative tap system serving eight consistently …
Atlanta — The Home Depot has announced that Carol Tomé, chief financial officer and executive vice president of corporate services, has decided to retire on August 31, 2019 after 24 years of service to the company. She will be succeeded by Richard McPhail. “Carol is not only one of the most respected executives in corporate America and an outstanding chief financial officer, but also is beloved by The Home Depot associates,” says Craig Menear, chairman, CEO and president. “Since Carol was named our CFO in May 2001, we have delivered …
Dallas — MUTTS Canine Cantina®, the fastest growing pet eatertainment brand in America, is partnering with Fransmart to bring its unique urban oasis for dogs and their owners to cities across the country. Fransmart is a global leader in franchise development. MUTTS Canine Cantina is already thriving in Texas, with successful locations in Dallas and Fort Worth and five additional locations opening in the Lone Star State over the next 3 years. Together with Fransmart, the concept is seeking out experienced franchisees to bring the rapidly-growing concept to major markets …
Euless, Texas — Federal Heath, with a 118-year history of sign industry excellence, will implement a carefully planned transition in leadership this year as its longtime president and CEO, Kevin Stotmeister, plans to retire at the end of 2019. Stotmeister will retain his chief executive officer responsibilities for the remainder of 2019. Stotmeister has promoted the company’s current executive vice president and chief operating officer, Sid Rasnick, to succeed him as president. Rasnick assumed his new duties in mid-January 2019. Stotmeister will have more than 39 years with the company …
The Woodlands, Texas — Market Street – The Woodlands has completed a comprehensive makeover of the award-winning shopping, dining and entertainment destination just north of Houston known for its collection of first-to-market retailers and restaurants as well as Class A office space. Designed by noted architect 505Design, the 8-month project revitalized Market Street’s Central Park, the focal point of the 560,000-square-foot mixed-use property. Natural grass has been replaced with weather-resistant and ecologically sustainable synthetic turf to create a setting suitable for year-round festivals, concerts and other gatherings. New seating areas, …
— By Angela Tucker, Ph.D. — It’s not just a restaurant problem: Here are some common pests in retail facilities. With frequent deliveries, changing inventories and new visitors every day, retailers face a unique set of pest control challenges and problems. Customers may be alarmed by signs of a pest issue, and these unwelcome visitors may even lead to costly damage to inventory and facilities. Retail facility executives should familiarize themselves with general pest control processes and ensure they are followed. Of course, some pests call for special attention. It’s …
— By Carol L. Carey — It’s also what’s OUTSIDE that counts with customers. Your company has prepared by making sure the market research has been done, you have all the latest gadgets, toys, clothing and items everyone would want to buy. Each location is stocked, product and staffing budgets are approved, but are you really prepared? Do you see what I see? Many companies plan and budget for interior cleaning and maintenance. They outline preventative maintenance programs for janitorial services, HVAC, flooring, painting and even lighting. Their focus is …
Oklahoma City — Coolgreens, a fast-casual concept that focuses on providing fresh and high-quality food, has hired Kathy Davidson to join the brand’s leadership team as its new vice president of franchise development. Davidson brings nearly 10 years of foodservice franchise development experience to the role. Previous positions include stints with Church’s Chicken, Cowboy Chicken and, most recently, Fazoli’s. The industry veteran said she is excited to join a smart, strong leadership team with more than 55 years of collective experience, including CEO Robert Lee; Todd Madlener, vice president of …
Pasadena, Calif. — Kitchen United, the GV-backed startup creating a new way for restaurant brands to expand via off-premise optimized kitchen centers, has signed lease agreements bringing new locations to San Francisco and Los Angeles, and a second location to Chicago in the Fulton Market District. The off-premise kitchen concept currently has locations in Pasadena, Calif., and Chicago’s River North neighborhood; new kitchen centers are scheduled to open this year in Atlanta; Columbus, Ohio; Austin, Texas; and Scottsdale, Ariz. “The popularity of off-premise consumption in the restaurant industry — through …
Washington, D.C. — On April 22, 2019 (Earth Day), the Environmental Investigation Agency (EIA) unveiled a new initiative identifying U.S. retailers committed to taking leadership action to reduce potent greenhouse gases used in cooling, hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs). As part of this initiative, ALDI U.S. intends to add 100 more stores in 2019 with HFC-free refrigeration systems. “In a time of acute need for leadership on climate change, the U.S. retail sector has remained a laggard in adopting climate-friendly cooling compared to their counterparts in rest of the developed world,” says Avipsa …