The Latest News

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

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Multiline foodservice equipment manufacturer Middleby Corp. has added to its coffee and beverage offerings through its acquisition of Marco Beverage Systems. The Dublin, Ireland-based company also manufactures hot water dispensers and has annual revenue of $30 million, per a Middleby release.

Richard Stockinger has stepped down from his post as CEO of Fiesta Restaurant Group to “pursue other interests,” per a company release. Dirk Montgomery, chief financial officer for the company since 2019, will serve as interim CEO for Fiesta Restaurant Group.

Darlene Schoeneberg was introduced as vice president of operations for Playa Bowls, a chain with a menu featuring various bowls, juices and smoothies.

PT Holdings, the parent company of Parts Town, will now go to market as Parts Town Unlimited, the company announced. As part of this re-branding effort, Parts Town Unlimited made several organizational and leadership changes.

Inspire Brands has sold Rusty Taco to Gala Capital Partners, an investment firm that owns such chains as Cici’s Pizza. The terms of the deal were not disclosed but the Rusty Taco management team, led by Brendan Mauri, will continue with the brand and have co-invested in the acquisition.

Multiconcept operator Dine Brands Global will add another restaurant chain to its portfolio by acquiring Fuzzy’s Taco Shop from Experiential Brands. Applebee’s parent company will pay $80 million in cash to NRD Holding Company for the 138-unit fast-casual chain. NRD bought a majority stake in Fuzzy’s in 2016.

Eugene Cresta will be promoted to vice president for TriMark SS Kemp, effective Jan. 2, 2023.

Bargreen Ellingson has expanded its chemical and leasing business by acquiring Advanced Chemical Solutions.

Thermodyne Foodservice Products hired Debra Barnes to serve as a customer service representative. In this role, Barnes will serve as the first point of contact for customer inquiry calls for the manufacturer of slow-cook and hold ovens.

California Pizza Kitchen tapped Jeff Warne to serve as its CEO. Warne is no stranger to CPK having previously served as a member of the chain’s board of directors. He places Jim Hyatt, who served as CPK’s CEO and president since 2018.

Roy Rogers Restaurants tapped Adam Klaers to serve as an executive vice president for the western-themed quick-service restaurant chain based in Frederick, Md.

Dutch Bros Inc. and California Pizza Kitchen add to their c-suites.

Christine Barone will become president of Dutch Bros Inc., during the company’s first fiscal quarter of 2023. Joth Ricci will remain as CEO of the Oregon-based coffee company.

North American Kitchen Solutions was acquired by Valesco, a Dallas-based private equity firm. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Central Restaurant Products and The Hubert Company will increase synergies in the new year by way of a strategic alliance between the two companies.

Arthur Carl II was appointed vice president of culinary for family dining chain IHOP.

Georgia-based sports bar chain Taco Mac hired Paul Baldasaro to serve as its chief operating officer.

CLV Marketing and Premier Foodservice Group add to their teams, while Everidge and Premier Metal and Glass update their rep networks.

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