February 20, 2013

The NAFEM Show 2013 In Review

A round-up of NAFEM Show coverage and a photo gallery of images from the show.

Cheesecake Factory Updates Management Team

David Gordon is the new president of The Cheesecake Factory Incorporated. Spero Alex is the senior vice president of operations for The Cheesecake Factory restaurants. Gordon replaces Michael Jannini, who left the company.

Heritage Food Service Group to Acquire R.G. Henderson and Son

Heritage Food Service Group has reached an agreement to acquire R.G. Henderson Group, a Canadian food equipment repair and parts distribution firm. Terms of the deal were not disclosed but the entire R.G. Henderson and Son team, including president Rick Blum, are expected to make the transition to Heritage.

CFESA Adds Three to its Board of Directors

The Commercial Food Equipment Service Association (CFESA) named a trio of foodservice professionals to its board of directors. The announcement came during CFESA’s spring conference, which took place on the days leading up to The NAFEM Show in Orlando.

This Week In Foodservice: Restaurant Industry Sales Get Strong Start In 2013

While the month to month gains continue to inch along, the restaurant industry did enjoy a better January than in 2012.

Pitco Promotes Spittle

Pitco Frialator, Inc., promoted Steve Spittle to vice president, sales and marketing from regional vice president of sales with Pitco Frialator and Blodgett Ovens.

Website Lists Most Allergy-Friendly Restaurants

AllergyEats, an online guide to allergy-friendly restaurants nationwide, has listed the most allergy-friendly restaurant chains based on feedback from the food allergy community. Restaurants were rated solely on how well they’ve accommodated food-allergic diners, and not on any other factors, such as ambiance or food quality.

Dupuy Flies into Leadership Position in East Coast Wings’ New Division

East Coast Wings & Grill appointed Freddy Dupuy director of the newly created unit economics/quality assurance division. The division will focus exclusively on unit-level economics and assist new and existing franchisees in delivering stronger revenue and EBITDA growth.

Smoothie King Adds Pair of Franchise Industry Veterans to its Management Team

Smoothie King Franchises, Inc., named Tom O’Keefe the company’s president and chief operating officer and re-appointed Joe Lewis, one of the chain’s original executives, to the post of general counsel. This news comes shortly after SK USA acquired Smoothie King.

Sage Restaurant Group Pours Esposito into Key Beverage Position

Sage Restaurant Group (SRG), a Denver-based multi-concept operator, promoted Louis Esposito to corporate director of beverage.