Cedar Park, Texas — Smokey Mo’s BBQ has named Von Dawson as its vice president of franchise development as the company continues building its footprint across Texas. He joins Smokey Mo’s from Dine Brands Global.
In his new role, Dawson will focus on building the brand’s pipeline of qualified franchise partners and expanding its presence in new and existing markets across the state. His appointment comes as Smokey Mo’s continues strengthening the operational foundation behind its franchise growth, with an emphasis on restaurant-level performance, franchisee support and a model built to compete in today’s operating environment.
Most recently, Dawson was director of franchise sales at Dine Brands Global, overseeing franchise sales across the company’s IHOP, Applebee’s and Fuzzy’s Taco Shop brands. Throughout his career in franchise development, he has worked with established restaurant brands to identify qualified operators, build franchise relationships and support development across new markets.
With 22 restaurants across the Austin, San Antonio and Houston areas and additional locations in development, Smokey Mo’s has taken a measured approach to expansion, strengthening restaurant operations and franchisee support while continuing to deliver the food, service and neighborhood experience that have kept guests coming back for more than 25 years.
The brand’s franchise model combines a smaller restaurant footprint and lean labor structure with multiple dayparts and a growing catering business. Smokey Mo’s has also continued investing in restaurant design, kitchen efficiency and digital tools, including a redesigned website, PAR Online Ordering and PAR POS, to strengthen operations and the guest experience.
“We’re thrilled to have Von join our leadership team and bring his depth of franchise development experience to Smokey Mo’s,” says Craig Haley, CEO of Smokey Mo’s BBQ. “He understands what experienced operators are looking for, how to build trust throughout the development process and what it takes to move from initial interest to opening restaurants. His perspective and track record will be instrumental as we look ahead to our next phase of growth in Texas.”
Based in Austin, Texas, Smokey Mo’s BBQ was founded in 2000. Now it has 22 locations in the Austin, San Antonio and Houston areas. For more information, visit www.smokeymosbbq.com and www.smokeymosbbq.com/franchising/.
SOURCE: Smokey Mo’s BBQ