The Latest News

FE&S delivers relevant news of the day to the foodservice equipment and supplies marketplace.

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Two longtime associates acquire Preferred Source. 4-Star Reps adds to its culinary acumen while Greenwald and Mirk add to their line cards.

Chris Wescott was appointed chief executive officer for Iron Hill Brewery, a 20-unit craft brewery and restaurant concept. Wescott comes to Iron Hill after most recently serving as CEO of Rosa Mexicano, a full-service restaurant with locations in New York City and other metropolitan markets.

Papa John's International promoted Max Wetzel to executive vice president, chief commercial officer.

Fast-casual restaurant chain MOOYAH Burgers, Fries & Shakes promoted Mike Sebazco to executive vice president of operations and development. He previously served as vice president of operations and development for four years.

Middleby Companies Pitco and QualServ are poised to make investments in their infrastructure.

CKE Restaurants Holdings, parent company of Carl’s Jr. and Hardee’s, updated its operating structure to combine restaurant operations and supply chain under John Dunion, a 25-year company veteran. As part of this reorganization, Dunion was promoted to CKE’s chief operating officer from chief supply chain officer.

Bernard Acoca has resigned from his roles of president, CEO and director for El Pollo Loco. Acoca left El Pollo Loco to pursue other opportunities, per a release announcing the transition.

The acquisition activity among foodservice equipment manufacturers and dealers has maintained its brisk pace. The latest deal has Electrolux Professional acquiring Unified Brands for approximately $244 million. The deal is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2021 and remains subject to customary closing conditions, etc., per a release announcing the deal.

Nexstep Commercial Products promoted Erin Busch to vice president of sales and marketing.

In a deal valued at $161.3 million, fast-casual chain BurgerFi will acquire Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza & Wings from L Catterton. The companies anticipate the deal will close in the fourth quarter of 2021 at which time L Catterton will become one of BurgerFi’s largest shareholders, per a release announcing the transaction.

Former Domino’s Pizza executive John King was named senior vice president of operations for Marco’s Pizza.

The Foodservice Equipment Distributors Association recently recognized the accomplishments of some of its members through its annual Gold Awards that “recognizes members and individuals who are advancing the foodservice equipment and supplies industry through exemplary leadership and service,” according to a FEDA release.

Graton Resort & Casino named William Becker its vice president of food and beverage. Becker will oversee all food, beverage and restaurant facilities at the 65-acre resort. The property features five foodservice operations as well as a series of bars.

Chris Rudin was promoted to group vice president of chains for the Star Holdings Group.

Mercer Culinary promoted Chris Parker to national sales manager of foodservice distribution.

Alto-Shaam hired Jennifer Voitek as regional sales manager for the northeast.

Marra Forni hired John Blizzard to serve as a regional sales manager for the central region and Eric Holder as director of technical service and support for the Maryland-based manufacturer of ovens for use in commercial kitchens.

Multiconcept operator Yum! Brands will promote David Graves to president of Pizza Hut U.S., effective January 1, 2022. He will replace Kevin Hochman, who is serving in this role on an interim basis.

Quick-service chicken chain Zaxby’s promoted Keith Anderkin to the newly created position of chief supply chain officer. Anderkin started at Zaxby’s as vice president of supply chain and quality assurance in June 2020.

George Perry has assumed the role of director of design for Innovative Foodservice Design Team, a division of Innovative Foodservice Group.

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