Orlando, Fla. — Sonny’s BBQ has hired Kris Larson as vice president, franchise development. Larson brings with him a breadth of experience supporting franchised brands Bojangles, School of Rock, Ace Hardware, Dunkin Brands and more. In his new role, he will lead the brand’s growth through strategic expansions and enhancing franchise performance across Sonny’s BBQ’s footprint. “We are beyond thrilled to welcome Kris Larson to our team, and to have him work alongside us as we continue to support our franchisees in this period of growth and expansion,” says Jamie …
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Savannah, Ga. — Citi Trends, Inc., a leading specialty value retailer of apparel, accessories and home trends primarily for African American and multicultural families in the U.S., has appointed Ken Seipel as its interim chief executive officer, effective June 2, 2024. He previously served as CEO of West Marine, the world’s largest retailer of boating supplies. David Makuen has stepped down as CEO and a member of the board. To ensure a smooth and successful transition, Makuen will serve as senior advisor to the CEO and the leadership team in …
Irving, Texas — Fuzzy’s Taco Shop® has signed two multi-unit development agreements to mark the Baja-inspired brand’s expansion throughout Arizona and Texas. The deals will bring 40 new restaurants to those markets over the next 8 years. “Fuzzy’s has transformed from a single neighborhood taco shop with a chill vibe in Fort Worth, Texas, into an emerging, nationally franchised concept with an exceptional bar program and a Baja-inspired menu that our guests have come to crave,” says Paul Damico, president of Fuzzy’s Taco Shop. “As we prepare to grow Fuzzy’s …
Atlanta — The Home Depot® has appointed Jordan Broggi as executive vice president of customer experience and president of online, effective June 3, 2024. In the role of EVP of customer experience, he will be responsible for leading the vision, design and development of new and innovative solutions to drive a seamless experience for the millions of customers who turn to The Home Depot for their home improvement projects — in stores, online or on mobile devices. He will also retain leadership of the company’s online business, overseeing online operations, …
Nashville, Tenn. — Toastique, the vibrant, artisan toast and juice café conceptualized in Washington, D.C., will expand into Tennessee within Nashville’s North Capitol neighborhood. Set to open in late June 2024, the Nashville store will be Toastique’s first location in the state. The Nashville location will be fueled by Andy Patel, a first-time Toastique franchisee, who has signed a three-unit deal with the Nashville location being the first and is planning future locations in Brentwood, Franklin and other surrounding Nashville cities. The new 1,625-square-foot location is on the ground floor …
Sheboygan, Wis. — Sierra, the TJ Maxx sister brand that delivers great value on top active and outdoor brands, will open its 100th store on May 31. Located in Sheboygan’s Deertrace Kohler shopping center, the 20,000-square-foot store marks a significant milestone in Sierra’s growth journey. “Reaching 100 stores is a testament to our loyal shoppers who share our love for getting active,” says Caitlin Kobelski, vice president and marketing director for Sierra. “We’re excited to bring our unique shopping experience to Sheboygan, providing a convenient destination to gear up for …
New York City — ABM, a leading provider of integrated facility services, infrastructure solutions and parking management, has announced that its president and CEO, Scott Salmirs, has been awarded the Number 1 spot on the Empower Advocates 2024 Role Model list. This is the second consecutive year Salmirs has been named to the list recognizing leaders dedicated to creating a more inclusive environment for people of color in business. “Receiving this recognition is an honor I share with our entire team at ABM. Together, we are building an inclusive culture …
Dublin, Ohio — The Wendy’s Company has appointed Abigail Pringle to the newly-created role of president, U.S., and E.J. Wunsch to president, international, effective June 17. Pringle has served as president, international, and chief development officer since 2019, and in numerous leadership roles across development, operations and strategic initiatives since joining the company in 2002. Wunsch has served as chief legal officer since joining the company in 2016. He has been a strategic partner on various international initiatives across Australia, Asia, Europe and South America. As president, U.S., Pringle will …
Grand Rapids, Mich. — Meijer will open its new 90,000-square-foot grocery format store, first launched in 2023 with two locations in Michigan, on July 11 at the Promenade of Noblesville in Noblesville, Ind. This is the first grocery format store by Meijer in Indiana, complementing its other 42 well-known supercenters throughout the state. “Meijer has been providing an exceptional shopping experience to customers across Indiana for 30 years, and the Meijer Grocery in Noblesville will further solidify our commitment to the Hoosier State,” says Travis Bernath, Noblesville Meijer Grocery Store …
Nashville, Tenn. — Captain D’s, the nation’s leading fast-casual seafood restaurant, has signed a 26-store franchise development agreement. This agreement will bring Captain D’s restaurants to St. Louis, Indianapolis and North Carolina over the next several years led by experienced multi-brand franchisees Keith Johnson and Kevin Davis of Amazing Food Concepts. The business partners also acquired and currently operate 15 Captain D’s in the St. Louis area and Illinois. “We are pleased to welcome Keith and Kevin to the Captain D’s team. They have a proven history of success across …