CBS’s hit show, “Undercover Boss”, will feature the CEO of Baja Fresh, David Kim. He will go in undercover as a normal employee to learn more about the everyday operation of Baja Fresh chain locations and try to make an Ultimo burrito. The show also gives watchers a behind the scenes look into the operations of their favorite restaurants.
Joshua Burton hasn’t turned 30 yet, but he’s already operating three successful and thriving Saladworks locations. Burton identified with the brand as a teenager in the mall where the first location was opened. His three locations are located in different states, and he manages them with careful precision. He was recognized as the “Operator of the Year” in 2009.
Loyalty programs encourage repeat customers to increase their visits, so Dunkin’ Donuts has launched their new DD Perks Rewards program. Each purchase made with a Dunkin’ Donuts Card, which can be purchased from any location, adds points towards coupons and rewards. One Dunkin’ Donuts dollar is awarded for each $20 spent.
MOD Pizza has opened its fourth location in Seattle. Each location draws on the style and setting of the neighborhood for its décor, and this new Capitol Hill location is no different. The company is run by a number of strong entrepreneurs that were involved in the development of the Seattle Coffee Company, Starbucks and Top Pot Donuts.
Baskin-Robbins is experimenting with a new hot and cold flavor known as Firehouse #31, April’s Flavor of the Month. This new ice cream combines the heat of cinnamon and a frosty vanilla base. Cinnamon flavored ice cream, Red Hots and an Atomic Fireball ribbon add lots of mouth tingling heat for contrast.
McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood Restaurants is continuing with their 11th year of Tax Day relief by giving guests drink specials during Happy Hour and discounted entrees. Patrons at all locations can come to a restaurant on April 18th and enjoy the bar menu or $10.40 bar entrees. Purchases made during Happy Hour on April 15th or all day during April 18th in the bar will give patrons a $10.40 gift certificate.
Seasons 52 is preparing to open a new restaurant in Oak Brook, Illinois in early 2012. Seasons 52 is a grill and piano bar chain that brings elegant dining to shopping centers, malls and other commercial properties. The menu is changed every 3 months to reflect seasonal produce and weekly specials are featured as well.
David Makula has been added to the Board of Directors for Red Robin Gourmet Burgers. His company, Oak Street Capital Management, has also signed an agreement to offer support to Red Robin while the company makes a number of new proposals at its annual meeting. The company also recently added a new CEO, Steve Carley, as well as 5 independent board members.
Red Mango, a frozen yogurt food chain, is hosting its first national conference at the Bellagio Resort in Las Vegas. Over 100 franchise operators and guests will gather to celebrate the success of this new brand. Red Mango has over 100 stores in 15 states, despite most of their growth occurring since the recession has started.
Pizza Inn may be an international pizza brand, but they’ve opened their first location in Saraland, Alabama. This Pizza Inn is located in a larger travel center, allowing guests from all around the country to sample the high quality of Pizza Inn despite being in a convenience store. The franchise owner hopes that this will increase the popularity of Pizza Inn among travelers as well as with Saraland citizens.