Minneapolis — Caribou Coffee®, a national premium coffeehouse and Panera Brands company, has opened its first-ever domestic franchise location. Located in Wooster, Ohio, the grand opening on Nov. 17 marked a significant milestone for Caribou Coffee since announcing its domestic franchise program in October 2021. Earlier this year, Caribou Coffee announced its first multi-unit agreement with franchisee Mike Mariola, who intends to develop locations in the Columbus, Dayton and Cincinnati markets. “We’ve been anticipating the day when we could welcome guests to Caribou’s first U.S.-based franchise location,” says Matthew Walls, …
Matthew Walls
Franklin, Tenn. — CKE Restaurants Holdings, Inc. (CKE), parent company of Carl’s Jr. and Hardee’s, has appointed Matthew Walls as the company’s first chief global development officer. In this new role, Walls will be responsible for creating a Global Development Center of Excellence to increase the footprint of both brands domestically and internationally. He joins the company from Domino’s. “Walls, as he is known in our industry, is experienced in delivering progressive business development strategies, innovative designs and solid partnerships with franchisees,” say CEO Ned Lyerly. “His global experience, strategic …