Upscale coffeeshop brand Bluestone Lane has named foodservice veteran Edie Ames its new CEO, as the chain’s founder relinquishes that title to become executive chairman of the brand.
Ames, who brings 30 years of hospitality experience to the “Australian-inspired” coffee chain, officially assumes the role at the end of the month, New York-based Bluestone Lane said.
Nicholas Stone founded Bluestone Lane nearly 12 years ago. The concept has since expanded to 65 locations in 10 markets, with 700 employees.
“It has been an immense joy to witness the growth and accomplishments of our brand, working alongside a dedicated and inspiring team, and seeing them thrive within our culture,” Stone said in a statement.
Edie Ames is the incoming CEO of Bluestone Lane. | Photo courtesy of Bluestone Lane.
Ames most recently served as CEO of Tastes on the Fly, an operator of airport restaurants that was sold to Paradies Lagardere in July. She also served as president and COO of The Counter before MTY Food Group purchased the burger chain in 2017. Her resume also includes leadership posts with Wolfgang Puck Catering, Del Frisco’s Restaurant Group, Morton’s Steakhouse and an 11-year tenure with California Pizza Kitchen.
She also serves on Cheesecake Factory’s board of directors.
“I am incredibly honored to join Bluestone Lane, a brand that has not only pioneered a new standard in café culture but has also built an enduring connection with its locals,” Ames said. “I’m excited to work alongside the exceptional team to continue elevating the locals’ experience while driving the brand forward in this next chapter of growth.”
In its early days, Bluestone Lane opened 44 locations in 42 months, but the chain was hit hard by the pandemic, which forced it to temporarily close a number of stores and halt its growth trajectory as its customer base shifted to working from home.
“With Edie joining, we are putting in place a structure that will enable us to accelerate our business for many years to come,” Stone said. “I’m excited to collaborate with Edie while continuing to lead many of our strategic growth initiatives including partnerships and international, while also taking the opportunity to explore some of my other business interests.”
Members help make our journalism possible. Become a Restaurant Business member today and unlock exclusive benefits, including unlimited access to all of our content. Sign up here.