Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers promoted Andrew Thengvall to chief development officer, the fast-casual chain announced Tuesday.
Thengvall has served as SVP of strategic growth and chief legal officer for the brand for the last six years. He will oversee a development team that includes the new hires of Mary Coots as director of franchise development and Todd Phelps as director of franchise real estate as the chain prepares to grow.
“Andrew Thengvall’s dedication to advising and strengthening the Freddy’s brand has been stellar and we have the utmost trust in his ability to continue to accelerate our franchise growth in this expanded position,” Chris Dull, who was named Freddy’s CEO in May, said in a statement. “We are thrilled that he has taken on this new role and excited to see him lead this skilled and enthusiastic team of experts to capitalize on our opportunities for expansion.”
Thengvall’s team will be responsible for establishing market prioritization, franchise sales, DMA management, franchisee recruitment and coaching for Freddy’s, which has more than 400 restaurants in 32 states.
Freddy’s was acquired by private equity firm Thompson Street Capital Partners in March.
All Freddy’s locations have drive-thrus. The chain has previously said it intends to open more than 50 new restaurants this year.
Freddy’s averaged nearly 22% annual system sales growth in the five years leading up to the pandemic, according to data from Restaurant Business sister firm, Technomic.
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.