In April Fred Burmer will take over as CEO of Lion’s Choice. He replaces Michael Kupstas as CEO of the St. Louis-based restaurant chain. Kupstas is retiring after nearly 50 years in the restaurant industry, including 6 with Lion’s Choice.

Michael KupstasBurmer’s background includes 40 years of quick-service restaurant experience. Since 2019, Burmer has served as COO of a YUM! Brand Franchisee based in the Mid-Atlantic which includes all brands of Taco Bell, Pizza Hut, KFC and Long John Silver's restaurants.

Founded in 1967, Lion’s Choice has 30 restaurants systemwide.