The Latest News

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

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Multiconcept operator Xperience Restaurant Group, owner of renowned chain Chevy’s Fresh Mex, added two new concepts to its portfolio of Mexican themed restaurants: SOL Mexican Cocina and solita Tacos & Margaritas.

Next year, MOOYAH Burgers, Fries & Shakes will get its first major facelift since the fast-casual chain’s inception in 2007. The brand refresh, which includes new seating, technology and a redesigned logo, is intended to position the company for growth in the face of changing consumer demands and expectations.

Roy Rogers Restaurants hired John Giffin to fill the newly created position of consumer care manager for the western themed quick service chain. Based in the company’s Frederick, Md., headquarters, Giffin will  oversee the administration of all consumer care activities, which includes guest relations and recovery programs, brand reputation management, mystery shopper activity and guest intercepts to gather feedback on strategic initiatives.

Jon O’Hern was appointed vice president of distributor sales for Hoshizaki America. He replaces Ken Hardisty, who is retiring after 30 years with the company.

Bally, LTI, Master-Bilt and Robot Coupe all made updates to their rep networks.

Dave McDougall has transitioned to CEO from chief operating officer for Your Pie, a fast-casual pizza chain. Bucky Cook, former CEO, will now serve Your Pie in an advisory capacity.

On the surface, Parts Town’s deal to buy Heritage Parts in October 2019, may have seemed like just another transaction in the seemingly endless parade of mergers and acquisitions that seem to define the foodservice equipment industry of late. But the deal may have broader implications.

Multiconcept operator RAVE Restaurant Group made a series of updates to its management team. Notably, Bob Bafundo will step down from his role as president, a position he held since September of 2018, and Mike Burns will assume the role of chief operations officer for RAVE.

Desserts often provide chefs creative freedom. Look no further than Instagram for an array of over-the-top confections with an explosion of colors, shapes, textures and flavors. Yet, at the same time, duplicating time-honored traditional favorites remains fashionable, whether they are regional specialties or nostalgic childhood favorites. It seems today’s menus have room for both.

The Wasserstrom Company has expanded and remodeled its Phoenix facilities.

Another Broken Egg Cafe hired Paul Macaluso to serve as president and chief executive officer. Macaluso comes to Another Broken Egg Cafe from The Krystal Company, where he served in the same role.

Foodservice equipment and supplies dealer KaTom Restaurant Supply Inc. appointed William Seale to serve as chief strategy officer.

Smokey Bones appointed James O’Reilly to serve as CEO for the 62-unit full-service restaurant chain. O’Reilly joins Smokey Bones from Long John Silver’s, where he served as CEO for four years.

Subway Restaurants appointed chain restaurant industry veteran John Chidsey CEO effective November 18, 2019.

In a move that supports the chain’s international growth aspirations, California Pizza Kitchen appointed Giorgio Minardi to serve as executive vice president of global development and franchise operations. Minardi will lead the development of CPK’s international and domestic franchise business.

Mark Nelson, an account executive with Total Source Equipment and Supply, an Aurora, Colo.-based independent manufacturers’ rep passed away on October 10.

Greg Stak will become vice president of ACP Inc., effective December 1. Stak serves as vice president of Electro Freeze / HC Duke & Son. Both are Ali Group companies.

Lee Bernhardt was named director of sales for Nexstep Commercial Products, licensee of the O-Cedar line of janitorial and sanitation equipment.

Frontline International promoted Giovanni Brienza to senior vice president for the manufacturer of cooking oil storage, handling, and disposal equipment.

The Krystal Company tapped Tim Ward to fill the newly created role of president and chief operating officer.