Taco John
The Mexican quick-service chain is discounting its franchisee fee and subsidizing the technology and grand-opening expenses of new stores in a bid to accelerate expansion. The incentives will save franchisees $40,000 per unit opening, according to the franchisor. The deal will be offered through the end of the year.
Sonic
A Florida-based franchisee is being sued by a group of assistant managers for alleged violation of state wage and hour laws, according to the legal newswire Law360. The suit contends the A.M.’s were illegally denied overtime pay. An assistant manager’s job is usually a salaried position.
Dick’s Wings & Grill
The franchisor of Dick’s Wings & Grill continued to build the chain’s infrastructure with the announcement this week of three executive additions, including the company’s first director of training and quality assurance. That post was filled by Sandi Holley, the former operator of a franchised store and a 10-year veteran of the chain. Mark Janasik, a former franchisee of Taqueria del Sol, was hired as director of operations, and Michael Small, a former vice president of operations for Woody’s Bar-B-Q, was named director of business development. Dick’s is franchised by American Restaurant Concepts.
Dunkin’ Donuts
Nicole Hensen is shifting from coffee to doughnuts. A former operator of six franchised coffee shops in Washington state, the Reno, Nev., native has negotiated rights for her HT2 Franchising company to open nine Dunkin’ Donuts in her home town. The development territory was the last one that Dunkin’ had available in Reno.
Russo’s
The Russo’s pizzeria group has hired Boston Market and Einstein Bros. alumnus Alfred Naddaff as national franchise development director. Russo’s has opened or franchised 34 restaurants under the names Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen, and says it has 60 more under development. Naddaff was previously the franchise director of Boston Market. He was a founding partner of Einstein Bros. Bagels.
Burger 21
Burger 21 is entering the Pompano Beach, Fla., market by awarding development rights to first-time franchisees John and Brandi Porter.
New Miami Subs Grill
The Florida-based sandwich chain has awarded rights to develop three Miami-area stores to Primos Group. The units will feature beer, wine and Champagne along with sandwiches and salads.
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