The Melting Pot has its first new leader in a very long time.
The 92-unit fondue chain on Tuesday promoted John “JC” Crawford to CEO. Crawford joined Melting Pot in March 2020 as EVP of operations.
He will replace longtime leader Bob Johnston, who began working at Melting Pot as a dishwasher at 14 and later bought the concept with his brothers, growing it into a national franchise.
According to his LinkedIn profile, Johnston has been Melting Pot’s “chief excitement officer” since 1974. He was also CEO of its parent company, Front Burner Brands, from 1985 until this past October.
He will remain Melting Pot’s owner and chairman. The Tampa-based chain is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.
Crawford, meanwhile, has spent many years in the full-service restaurant segment, including 20 years at Bennigan’s and 10 years at Ruth’s Chris Steak House. He has held various franchise and operations leadership roles.
In a statement, Crawford said he was honored to help lead Melting Pot “into its next chapter.”
“We have a talented leadership team, incredible franchise partners and a guest experience that's unlike anything else in the industry,” he said. “As we look ahead, we're focused on operational excellence, innovative growth strategies and ensuring every guest enjoys the perfect night out.”
Melting Pot chain announced a flurry of other leadership moves Tuesday:
- Randy Barnett was promoted from VP of technology to chief technology officer.
- Mike Mobley was promoted from VP of people to chief talent officer.
- Matt Zurcher was promoted from director to vice president of franchise and restaurant operations.
- Dan Stone's title changed from chief operating and development officer to chief business officer.
- Ana Malmqvist's title changed from chief marketing officer to chief brand officer.
It also unveiled a new incentive program to help spur franchise growth. The first five new-construction franchisee agreements signed starting July 1 will get a 50% discount on the initial franchising fee, a savings of $22,500.
Melting Pot offers coursed meals featuring cheese and chocolate fondue as well as entrees of meat and fish that are cooked in broth at the table.
Systemwide sales fell 3.1% last year, according to Technomic Top 500 data.
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