December 5, 2022
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Champion Management

What does it take to become a Champion? Working harder than the competition, being fearless and having a solid strategy for success are good first steps. You also need a motivated support team that’s ready to push the boundaries and help you reach that next level. At Champion, we take an integrative approach to building brands that spans multiple channels to achieve maximum impact. We immerse ourselves in your brand, industry trends and even your competition to create a compelling story that drives consumers and influencers to take action. Our holistic approach includes media relations, social media, influencer partnerships, event planning and local market outreach – along with the occasional big splash – that gets people talking about your brand.


Marketing
FB Society Named to Inc. 5000 List of Fastest-Growing Private Companies in 2022
Champion Management Posted On August 30, 2022


Experiential, Dallas-based hospitality collective earns spot on prestigious list of successful independent businesses

Dallas-based FB Society, the creator of experiential hospitality concepts, is proud to announce its inclusion on the Inc. 5000 2022 – the most prestigious annual ranking of the fastest-growing private companies in the nation.

The Inc. 5000 list represents a one-of-a-kind look at the most successful companies within the economy’s most dynamic segment — independent businesses. Facebook, Chobani, Under Armour, Microsoft, Patagonia, and many other well-known names gained their first national exposure as honorees on the Inc. 5000. The companies on this year’s list have not only been successful, but have also demonstrated resilience amid supply chain woes, labor shortages and the ongoing impact of COVID-19.

“We’re greatly honored to be recognized as one of the fastest-growing companies in America,” said CEO Jack Gibbons. “It’s been our mission to push the boundaries of food and hospitality and deliver an experience unique and exciting for our guests. The recent macro environment has made that goal even more challenging but our focus on building exceptional culture has contributed greatly to our growth.  We’re grateful to our dedicated team and guests who make it all possible.”

FB Society was one of just a dozen Texas-based companies in the food and beverage industry to be included on the exclusive list this year. The recognition follows several accolades for FB Society, including the recent recognition of Sixty Vines as a 2022 “Hot Concept” winner by Nation Restaurant News and the recent addition of seasoned industry veteran, Brad Leist, to their leadership team as CFO.

For FB Society, its restaurant concepts are the heart of the company and embody the belief that experience is everything. Other FB Society brands include Mexican Sugar, Whiskey Cake, Ida Claire, Haywire, The Food Hall Co. and more. For more information about FB Society, visit fb-society.com.

Complete results of the Inc. 5000, including company profiles and an interactive database that can be sorted by industry, region and other criteria, can be found at inc.com/inc5000.

About FB Society

Driven by a thriving culture and constant pursuit of perfection, FB Society is an award-winning operator of a fully integrated collection of brands uniquely positioned for long-term growth and success, driven a leadership team focused on WHY. Known for its creativity, experiential approach, exquisite attention to detail, culinary innovation, and creation and development of emerging brands, FB Society now boasts a diverse portfolio of 10 restaurant brands across 25 locations, a one-of-a-kind food hall, Modern Pour premium catering, Unlawful Assembly Brewing Co. and the not-for-profit Furlough Kitchen, with more concepts on the horizon. To learn more about FB Society, visit fb-society.com.


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Marketing
Twin Peaks Sets Sights on Further International Franchise Growth
Champion Management Posted On August 8, 2022


Following a historic franchise agreement that brought Twin Peaks Restaurant across the border to Mexico City, the ultimate sports lodge is aiming to take its sports watching paradise to more markets around the globe.

Twin Peaks CEO Joe Hummel announced today that Vice President of Franchise Development Glenn Moon and his team are seeking development opportunities overseas in Brazil, Canada, Columbia, India and more countries throughout the world. After inking multiple development agreements totaling 21 incremental new lodges last year in the U.S., Moon’s team has already eclipsed that number in 2022 with 22 new lodges signed year to date and another 10 to 16 in the final stages of execution.

Twin Peaks Sets Sights on Further International Franchise Growth
Glenn Moon

“We’re ready to paint the globe buffalo plaid,” Hummel said. “Glenn joined our team in February of last year and has already spurred rapid development both in the U.S. and in Latin America. We’re excited to turn our focus towards international growth, starting with Canada, India and South America. We can’t wait to show more countries that our scratch-made food, premium drinks and scenic views make Twin Peaks the sports viewing spot they’ve been missing.”

Twin Peaks was recently named to Nation’s Restaurant News’ “Top 500” list, Black Box’s “Top 5 Restaurant Brands” and Restaurant Business’ “Top 500” list for 2022. In addition to receiving these accolades, Twin Peaks spent the second quarter of the year upgrading its technology for the back-of-house staff and to boost the customer experience. Twin Peaks offers comprehensive marketing and branding, a one-of-a-kind lodge atmosphere, high traffic, worthwhile compensation and more.

About Twin Peaks

Founded in 2005 in the Dallas suburb of Lewisville, Twin Peaks now has 91 locations in the US and Mexico. Twin Peaks is the ultimate sports lodge featuring made-from-scratch food and the coldest beer in the business surrounded by scenic views and the latest in high-definition TVs. At every Twin Peaks, guests are immediately welcomed by a friendly Twin Peaks Girl and served up a menu made for MVPs. From its smashed and seared to order burgers to its in-house smoked brisket, pork and wings, guests can expect menu items capable of satisfying every appetite. To learn more about franchise opportunities, visit twinpeaksfranchise.com. For more information, visit twinpeaksrestaurant.com.

Forward Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements relating to the timing and performance of new store openings and growth in same-store sales. Forward-looking statements reflect expectations of management concerning the future and are subject to significant business, economic and competitive risks, uncertainties and contingencies, including but not limited to uncertainties surrounding the severity, duration and effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. These factors are difficult to predict and beyond our control, and could cause our actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such forward-looking statements. We refer you to the documents that are filed from time to time by FAT Brands Inc. with the Securities and Exchange Commission, such as its reports on Form 10-K, Form 10-Q and Form 8-K, for a discussion of these and other factors. We undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date of this press release.


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Marketing
Keeping Culture at Center to Fuel Growth, Raising Cane’s Celebrates Thousands of Crewmembers in Localized Campaign
Champion Management Posted On March 23, 2022


ONE CREW. ONE LOVE® is the latest articulation of an annual campaign that celebrates and showcases thousands of Crewmembers from every Restaurant

 In 1996, Todd Graves founded Raising Cane’s, with 12 Crewmembers who believed in his dream. From those early days of working hard and having fun in a small restaurant in Baton Rouge, grew Graves’s appreciation for his Crew that has become an integral part of the culture of Raising Cane’s.

Now, 25 years and over 600 restaurants later, Raising Cane’s continues to show appreciation once again with the return of one of the largest creative campaigns in brand history. More than 6,000 Crewmembers are featured in the campaign which includes TV commercials, social media as well as local billboards and in-restaurant signage that are unique to each Restaurant. So, when a “Caniac” visits their local Raising Cane’s, all of the One Crew. One Love signage that they see throughout the Restaurant features that Crew of that specific Restaurant.

“I couldn’t be more grateful for our hard-working Crew and they deserve this recognition,” said Todd Graves, Founder & Co-CEO of Raising Cane’s. “Our Crew and Culture are as important to our Brand as our quality chicken finger meals. This is just one way we can show our appreciation.”

Raising Cane’s commitment to its Crew and Culture contributes to the company’s retention rates that are more than double the industry average for quick-service restaurants. In 2021, the company expanded its Restaurant Partner Program. With best-in-class education, training and development, the program is designed to help partners reach a net worth of $1 million in 10 years. Raising Cane’s also expanded its education program to include an online degree program for Crewmembers and their families in addition to its tuition reimbursement program. Coupled with the commitment to internally promote 2300 Crewmembers this year is why Cane’s is one of just three Restaurant brands named to Forbes’ “Best Employers For New Grads” Top 100 list, and the company’s “fast-paced, fun culture and growth opportunities” earned it a spot on Glassdoor’s coveted “100 Best Places to Work in the U.S.” list in 2021.

“We are always working hard to reward, recognize and create new opportunities for our Crew, said AJ Kumaran Co-CEO. Our goal with the campaign was for our 50,000 Crewmembers to know that they are essential to Raising Cane’s and we appreciate all of their hard work serving our customers.”

About Raising Cane’s®

Founded by Todd Graves in 1996 in Baton Rouge, La., RAISING CANE’S CHICKEN FINGERS has more than 610 Restaurants across 31 states and the Middle East. Holding the title of “Fastest Growing Chicken Chain,” Raising Cane’s plans to open over 100 new Restaurants across 10 new markets in 2022. The company has ONE LOVE® – quality chicken finger meals – which includes the iconic “Cane’s Sauce” that has been named the #1 sauce in the QSR industry. Raising Cane’s is consistently recognized for being a great place to work – most recently earning them a spot on Glassdoor’s ”Best Places to Work” list, and Forbes’ “America’s Best Large Employers” list. More information is available at raisingcanes.com


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Advertising  / Public Relations
Taziki’s Selects Dallas-based Champion as PR Agency of Record
Champion Management Posted On February 22, 2022


Acclaimed Mediterranean café selects Dallas-based agency to increase brand awareness and help lift brand to new heights at the local and national level

Taziki’s Mediterranean Café recently announced today its engagement of Champion as the Birmingham-based fast-casual concept’s Public Relations Agency of Record.

Champion’s scope of work for Taziki’s is focused on building brand awareness on a local and national level, while also introducing Taziki’s to new markets – including the upcoming grand opening of its 100th restaurant. Champion will also provide ideation for marketing programs and create unique storytelling opportunities to highlight Taziki’s story.

“This move to Champion is starting a new era of growth for us and we look forward to utilizing the resources of the Champion team,” said Senior Director of Marketing Julie Wade. “Finding a national partner with expertise in restaurants was a critical step for us in our quest to grow.”

Founded in 2002, Dallas-based Champion ranks among the nation’s largest and most acclaimed PR and digital media agencies in the foodservice space, representing blue-chip national brands such as Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers, SPB Hospitality, Dickey’s Barbecue Pit, Fazoli’s, Taco John’s and Bar Louie. The agency’s clientele spans a wide array of industries including high tech, automotive, consumer products, real estate and not-for-profits. For more information on Champion, including a complete list of clients, visit championmgt.com.

“Taziki’s is an exceptional brand and we’re ready to help them elevate their profile,” said Champion Principal Ladd Biro. “We are so impressed by Julie and her entire team, and we’re fired up to raise their visibility in both new and existing markets. Taziki’s culinary team does an amazing job at creating Mediterranean favorites with a creative twist, and we’re going to make sure everybody knows it!”

Inspired by the flavors of the Mediterranean, Taziki’s colorful menu offers handcrafted, elevated, affordable fare that allows every guest to receive eudaimonia — human flourishing. Taziki’s embraces the Mediterranean lifestyle in its menu, offering primarily plant-based dishes, health oils instead of butters, herbs and spice for optimal flavor, limited red meat, and fish and poultry.

In addition to its passion for the Mediterranean life, Taziki’s is passionate about working with American producers, particularly small- and medium-sized family-owned farms. Over the years, Taziki’s has built a strong relationship with these valued producers who go through an extensive vetting process to ensure the highest quality. To learn more about Taziki’s, visit www.tazikis.com.

About Taziki’s Mediterranean Café
Founded by Keith and Amy Richards in 1998, Taziki’s Mediterranean Café is headquartered in Birmingham, Alabama. Taziki’s is a fresh celebration of the Mediterranean diet with a colorful menu that offers handcrafted, elevated, affordable fare the entire family enjoys. Much of the original menu is still the same, with added efficiency in the process and technology to make the brand a systems-driven, scalable operation. Taziki’s continues to grow with over 90 locations operating today. With opportunities in every state, Taziki’s has a wide network of resources for franchise partners that allows anyone to bring the Mediterranean lifestyle to their neighborhood. To learn more about how to own a piece of the Mediterranean, visit tazikisfranchising.com. For more information, visit tazikis.com and follow Taziki’s on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.


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Marketing  / QSR
Dickey’s Launches ‘Behind the BBQ’ Cookbook | Recipes, Cocktails and Tall Tales
Champion Management Posted On January 10, 2022


After 80 years and three generations of passing down the Art of Great Barbecue, Dickey’s Barbecue Pit is giving fans a peek behind the kitchen door!

“Behind the BBQ: Recipes, Cocktails & Tall Tales,” Dickey’s second cookbook, is now available online through the Barbecue At Home website. The Texas-style barbecue brand’s new cookbook was created with the help of Southwestern Publishing House and includes favorite recipes from Dickey’s family members, employees, franchise owners and more.

The cookbook is an ode to barbecue lovers, pit masters, Big Yellow Cup collectors and all the folks who have made Dickey’s Barbecue Pit the iconic brand it is today. Dickey’s prides itself as an American, family-owned barbecue restaurant brand that serves mouthwatering barbecue with a side of southern hospitality. By writing “Behind the BBQ,” Dickey’s is letting its loyal fans bring some of its southern charm and delicious tastes home with them.

Plus, “Behind the BBQ” is more than just a cookbook with exclusive, delicious recipes from the creators of Legit. Texas. Barbecue.™ The one-of-a-kind book also includes behind-the-scenes tales of life at Dickey’s that fans won’t hear anywhere else.

“Behind the BBQ” transports Dickey’s stories, recipes and spirit from our table to yours,” said Laura Rea Dickey, CEO of Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants, Inc. “We’ve been serving up delicious, slow-smoked barbecue for eight decades and we are thrilled to share those recipes as a way to say ‘thank you.’ We know our fans are always looking for the perfect barbecue recipes, and we’ve given them just that in this book. We’ve also got specialty cocktails and delightful appetizer recipes for those looking to host a party. We encourage our guests to bring these amazing recipes to life and create life-long memories with friends and family!”

For only $34.99, readers can become a pro in the kitchen and on the grill with easy-to-follow instructions with everything from barbecue sauce recipes to a beer can chicken recipe. The cookbook also includes classic barbecue side dishes and cocktail recipes. To order a copy and enjoy delicious food and juicy stories, visit the Barbecue At Home website.

To learn more about Dickey’s, follow Dickey’s Barbecue Pit on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Download the Dickey’s Barbecue Pit app from the Apple App Store or Google Play.


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Branding  / Marketing
Dickey’s Restaurant Brands Fuels Growth to Reach New Milestone
Champion Management Posted On December 29, 2021


World’s largest barbecue concept opens 700th location worldwide

Already known as the world’s largest barbecue concept, demand for Dickey’s Restaurant Brands has driven the family-owned franchise to achieve a new growth milestone.

On Dec. 10, Dickey’s Restaurant Brands celebrated opening its 700th location worldwide across all of its concepts, including Dickey’s Barbecue Pit, Wing Boss, Big Deal Burger and Trailer Birds. Trailer Birds Hot Chicken began serving the Ocoee, Florida community, securing Dickey’s Restaurant Brands’ landmark opening.

“The growing popularity of each of our concepts is enabling Dickey’s Restaurant Brands to expand at a very fast pace,” said Laura Rea Dickey, CEO of Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants, Inc. “Guests are interested in testing out our portfolio of delicious offerings, and the success we’ve seen is reflected in Dickey’s Restaurant Brands hitting 700 locations. We’re proud of the incredible growth we’ve achieved thus far, and we can’t wait to see where these brands continue to take us.”

To learn more about Dickey’s, follow Dickey’s Barbecue Pit on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Download the Dickey’s Barbecue Pit app from the Apple App Store or Google Play.

About Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants, Inc. 

Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants, Inc., the world’s largest barbecue concept, was founded in 1941 by Travis Dickey. For the past 80 years, Dickey’s Barbecue Pit has served millions of guests Legit. Texas. Barbecue.™ At Dickey’s, all our barbecued meats are smoked onsite in a hickory wood burning pit. Dickey’s proudly believes there’s no shortcut to true barbecue and it’s why they never say bbq. The Dallas-based, family-run barbecue franchise offers several slow-smoked meats and wholesome sides with ‘No B.S. (Bad Stuff)’ included. Dickey’s has over 550 locations across the United States and six other countries and is on track to have over 600 locations by the end of 2021.

In 2016, Dickey’s won first place on Fast Casual’s “Top 100 Movers and Shakers” list, was named a Top 500 Franchise by Entrepreneur in 2018 and was named to Hospitality Technology Industry Heroes in 2021. Led by CEO Laura Rea Dickey, who was named among the country’s 50 most influential women in foodservice in 2020 by Nation’s Restaurant News and was recognized as one of the top 25 industry leaders on Fast Casual’s 2020 Top 100 Movers and Shakers list, Dickey’s Barbecue Pit has also been recognized by Fox News, Forbes Magazine, Franchise Times, The Wall Street Journal and QSR Magazine. For more information, visit www.dickeys.com. 


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Marketing
Dickey’s Partners with Ghost Kitchen Brands to Launch in over 100 Locations
Champion Management Posted On November 9, 2021


Texas-style barbecue brand joins revolutionary business model’s roster of popular restaurants available for one-stop pickup and delivery

Dickey’s Barbecue Pit is bringing its Legit. Texas. Barbecue.™ to select locations across North America and Canada through a partnership with Ghost Kitchen Brands.

Dickey’s announced today that the Texas-style barbecue brand is teaming up with Toronto-based Ghost Kitchen Brands to serve its iconic meats and southern sides through the satellite pickup and delivery service.

Dickey’s joins a stacked lineup of other brands, such as Cinnabon, Quizno’s, Nathan’s Famous, Shaquille O’Neal’s Big Chicken and more that are now available to order at the first U.S. Ghost Kitchen counter in a Walmart store in New York state. Dickey’s will soon be serving in two U.S. locations in November and over 100 locations in the U.S. and existing locations in Canada.

“We’re beyond excited to partner with Ghost Kitchen Brands and expand our availability to our fans,” said Laura Rea Dickey, CEO of Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants, Inc. “Dickey’s is committed to constantly evolving with consumer trends, and Ghost Kitchen Brands’ innovative model provides another opportunity for us to stay ahead of the curve. We look forward to being on this journey with Ghost Kitchen Brands as it grows across the U.S. and Canada.”

“Dickey’s Barbecue Pit’s offerings are a delicious addition to our line-up of menu items,” said George Kottas, founder and CEO of Ghost Kitchen Brands. “We’re excited to incorporate Dickey’s smoked meats and wholesome sides into our concepts. Available on their own or mix and matched with our other brands and available in one order out of our Ghost Kitchen.”

Ghost Kitchen freshly prepares well-known comforting food brands in one kitchen and location, optimizing it for online delivery and pickup. The virtual food courts are nearly contactless where the customer can order on the website, QR code, third-party delivery or the kiosk inside the store.

The rapidly growing concept’s expansion plans include opening more locations in Canada with additional U.S. locations including Texas, California, Illinois and Georgia over the coming months and in 2022. 

To learn more, follow Dickey’s Barbecue Pit on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Download the Dickey’s Barbecue Pit app from the Apple App Store or Google Play.

About Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants, Inc.

Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants, Inc., the world’s largest barbecue concept, was founded in 1941 by Travis Dickey. For the past 80 years, Dickey’s Barbecue Pit has served millions of guests Legit. Texas. Barbecue.™ At Dickey’s, all our barbecued meats are smoked onsite in a hickory wood burning pit. Dickey’s proudly believes there’s no shortcut to true barbecue and it’s why they never say bbq. The Dallas-based, family-run barbecue franchise offers several slow-smoked meats and wholesome sides with ‘No B.S. (Bad Stuff)’ included. Dickey’s has over 550 locations across the United States and six other countries and is on track to have over 600 locations by the end of 2021.

In 2016, Dickey’s won first place on Fast Casual’s “Top 100 Movers and Shakers” list, was named a Top 500 Franchise by Entrepreneur in 2018 and was named to Hospitality Technology Industry Heroes in 2021. Led by CEO Laura Rea Dickey, who was named among the country’s 50 most influential women in foodservice in 2020 by Nation’s Restaurant News and was recognized as one of the top 25 industry leaders on Fast Casual’s 2020 Top 100 Movers and Shakers list, Dickey’s Barbecue Pit has also been recognized by Fox News, Forbes Magazine, Franchise Times, The Wall Street Journal and QSR Magazine. For more information, visit www.dickeys.com.


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Marketing
Maggiano’s Little Italy Enters Next Generation of Brand Legacy | Hires Dallas-Based Design Firm
Champion Management Posted On August 18, 2021


Maggiano’s Little Italy® chose Dallas-based, global design consultant firm Harrison to utilize its award-winning strategic branding, interior design and architectural expertise in five of the brand’s restaurant remodels across the country.

The popular Italian-American brand is looking to utilize the new prototype Harrison created to revamp five locations in Oakbrook and Skokie, Illinois, Plano, Texas, Tampa, Florida and Denver. Harrison will implement changes that reflect every touchpoint of the guest experience through branding and environment, interior and exterior redesign, restaurant layout, signage, furniture and décor.

“We want to show our authenticity while putting the guest experience at the heart of our brand,” said Steve Provost, president of Maggiano’s. “These remodeling efforts will lay the groundwork for Maggiano’s in the 21st century, and Harrison recognizes the importance of not only a good design but also an authentic brand story still rooted in the traditions of the brand. We are excited to see our brand story brought to life.”

The new space will be engaging and a cinematic scape, every moment designed to engage their guests’ senses. Mixing the familiar – black and white photography, red check tablecloths, round Capone booths and warm wood – with new design features – sculptural light fixtures, specialty finishes and book-matched marble – the brand is ushered into the future while still holding hands with the past. The Maggiano’s design delivers a timeless experience.

“Working closely with Sr. Director of Architecture at Brinker International, Inc. Jim Fay, the objective was to bring Maggiano’s into the 21st century, while retaining existing guests and inspiring a new generation,” said Harrison Chief Operating Officer Keith Anderson. “Design affects our feelings and behavior. The branding and interior design are not just a look. It frames the feeling of Maggiano’s restaurants and creates a ‘sense of place.’ We want to put the human experience at the heart, empathize with the guest and make it unique to Maggiano’s. At Harrison, our team truly dives deep into each market and brand that we work with to fully understand and portray their brand through strategic storytelling. Each remodel will have different nuances and details that are suitable for the market they are in, and we are excited to see it all come together over the next few months.”

Harrison creates engaging brands and crafts meaningful experiences which bring a brand’s strategy, interiors, architecture, packaging and digital worlds to life. During its brand architecture design, Harrison employs creative storytelling, thorough market research, business strategy workshops and more to tie the physical premises together with the concept’s story. To learn more about Harrison, visit harrison.hn.

About Harrison

Harrison is an award-winning, global strategic architecture and design consultancy renowned for creating successful new hospitality concepts, transforming existing brands and operations, and designing distinctive spaces that deliver memorable guest experiences. With offices in Dallas, London, Birmingham and Melbourne, Harrison has partnered with major global brands as well as local independent businesses to deliver 6,000+ projects. The company’s approach focuses on the guest journey; enhancing their experience through a unique storytelling process which differentiates brands from their competition. Harrison is built on a reputation for creativity, passion and vision which is expressed in the breadth of its extensive portfolio built over the last 32 years. For more information, visit harrison.hn and follow Harrison on Instagram.

About Maggiano’s Little Italy®
Maggiano’s Little Italy specializes in Italian-American cuisine served in a warm and friendly atmosphere. Maggiano’s menu features both classic and contemporary recipes – authentic pastas, signature salads, prime steaks, fresh seafood, regular chef specials and specialty desserts. Maggiano’s 54 restaurants nationwide offer lunch and dinner as well as delivery, carryout services and banquet spaces for special occasions. Maggiano’s is owned and operated by Brinker International, Inc. (NYSE: EAT), one of the world’s leading casual dining restaurant companies, serving more than one million guests daily. Brinker owns or franchises more than 1,600 restaurants in 29 countries and two territories. In addition to Maggiano’s, Brinker owns and operates Chili’s® Grill & Bar.

Follow news about Maggiano’s on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and Pinterest. For additional information, including the restaurant nearest you, please visit maggianos.com.


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Marketing
Global Brand and Design Group Harrison Hired by Zero Gradi for Its U.S. Debut in Dallas’ City Center District
Champion Management Posted On July 19, 2021


Zero Gradi Gelateria and Dessert Bar just made its U.S. debut in Dallas’ City Center District and is now transporting Dallasites to Amalfi Coast’s beautiful beaches.

Imagine walking barefoot along the Italian coast, surrounded by cloudless blue skies and the Mediterranean sea’s clear emerald water. What would make the moment even more perfect? Fresh, handcrafted Italian pastries and gelato, which you can find just off the shores of the Amalfi Coast.

CVD Developments, LLC – owners of 400 Gradi Dallas, located right next to the new Zero Gradi Gelateria and Dessert Bar – wanted an experiential design firm to help bring this Italian vision to life, while also sticking to the concept’s Australian roots. So, they hired Harrison, a Dallas-based, award-winning brand and design consultancy with a worldwide reach. Harrison also has offices in the U.K. and Melbourne, Australia, which perfectly positioned the company to support Zero Gradi. As concept designer and architect of record, Harrison provided the client with turnkey service. Inspiration for their designs came from the pastel-colored parasols that lined the Amalfi Coast beaches during the ‘60s and ‘70s.

“At Harrison, we strongly believe in the importance of an authentic brand story, so when we were approached about this opportunity, we dove in head first,” said Harrison COO Keith Anderson. “We fully immersed ourselves in the Zero Gradi experience by flying to the original location in Melbourne, Australia. Through extensive research and time spent with the brand, we were able to combine the Italian vision with the brand’s popularity in Australia in order to create a contemporary, refined, inviting design that’ll transport guests to Italy’s famous coastlines. Taking time to truly understand the company and its position in the market is key to successfully supporting the brand as it enters global markets.”

“We chose to work with Harrison due to their extensive experience with global brand transfers throughout the U.S., Europe, Asia, Australia and South America,” said Igor Stevovic, principal of CVD Developments, LLC. “They have proven to be an indispensable partner. We look forward to continuing our work with them to bring Zero Gradi stateside.”

Inspired by his travels to Italy , Zero Gradi was created by Johnny Di Francesco, the world champion, award-winning chef behind 400 Gradi – a Neapolitan-style pizzeria from Australia. Zero Gradi Dallas features a full espresso bar, a dessert bar with an Italian-inspired menu of scratch-made pastries and a gelateria with more than 20 handcrafted traditional gelato flavors, including several fruit-forward sobettos.

“The Amalfi Coast is renowned for its traditional gelato made with Italian expertise,” Chef Francesco said. “We couldn’t be more excited to bring Zero Gradi to the U.S. and give Dallasites a taste of authentic gelato and premium desserts. We chose Dallas because of its multi-cultural food scene and the people. You can’t find the same Southern hospitality that you get in Dallas, anywhere else in the states.”

Zero Gradi Dallas is located at 2000 Ross Ave., Ste. 180, next to 400 Grade. This is the first Zero Gradi in the U.S. The original Zero Gradi opened in 2016 in Melbourne, Australia.

About Harrison

Harrison is an award-winning, global strategic architecture and design consultancy renowned for creating successful new hospitality concepts, transforming existing brands and operations, and designing distinctive spaces that deliver memorable guest experiences. With offices in Dallas, London, Birmingham and Melbourne, Harrison has partnered with major global brands as well as local independent businesses to deliver 6,000+ projects. Harrison combines strategic understanding of the market, brand analysis and intuitive creativity to develop unique and experiential designs that deliver compelling brand character. The company’s approach focuses on the guest journey; enhancing their experience through a unique storytelling process which differentiates brands from their competition. Harrison is built on a reputation for creativity, passion and vision which is expressed in the breadth of its extensive portfolio built over the last 31 years. For more information, visit harrison.hn and follow Harrison on Instagram.


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Marketing  / QSR
Raising Cane’s Founder + Celebrity Friends Help Save Dallas Landmark Smokey John’s on New discovery+ Series, Restaurant Recovery
Champion Management Posted On April 15, 2021


Restaurateur and philanthropist Todd Graves is rolling up his sleeves to help struggling restaurant owners recover from the COVID-19 pandemic in a new series, Restaurant Recovery, streaming exclusively on discovery+. Beginning Thursday, April 15, double episodes are available each week.

As founder and CEO of the popular restaurant chain Raising Cane’s® Chicken Fingers, Todd brings his deep industry knowledge and undeniable passion for helping the community to Restaurant Recovery. In each episode, Todd and his team work directly with local restaurateurs that are struggling to hang on, by providing creative ideas, hands-on renovations and financial support. Investing more than $100,000 per restaurant and $1 million overall, Graves helps to bring the restaurants back to their former glory.

Along the way, Todd invites some high-profile friends to lend a hand, including multi-hyphenates Nelly and Snoop Dogg, actor Rob Schneider, football’s Archie Manning, Roquan Smith and Michael Thomas, the Rebirth Brass Band, Grammy-Award winning group La Mafia, and basketball legend Shaquille O’Neal.

“The pandemic has been devastating to the restaurant industry as a whole, but thankfully, due to our drive-thrus at Raising Cane’s, we were fortunate to maintain our business,” said Graves. “As a result, it became so important to me to pay it forward to those in need by offering financial and professional support. These great family-owned restaurants are important not only to their employees, but also the community and owners who sacrificed so much trying to keep the doors open. Our hope is that by providing a platform to highlight and amplify their awareness, these restaurants will be able to bounce back stronger than before.”

In the second episode, Todd Graves visits Dallas’ own Smokey John’s, a restaurant owned and operated by two brothers carrying on their father’s legacy, including keeping all of their 22 employees afloat even when they can barely pay the bills. Started by “Smokey” John Reaves, the restaurant grew into a beloved African American community gathering spot where BB King played for ribs and Dallas Cowboys players frequented. Now the two brothers, Brent and Juan Reaves, are tasked with running the restaurant their father built from the ground up because of his love for backyard BBQ. In addition to COVID-induced issues, the restaurant encountered problems when the Texas State Fair – which provides over 30% of their annual revenue – was canceled. Watch to see how Todd and friends stepped in to help this true Texas staple.

 

In the first episode, Todd visits Chili John’s in Los Angeles. Open since 1946, Chili John’s was rescued from imminent foreclosure by a retired Coast Guardsman and his wife three years ago. But overnight, COVID-19 knocked out their major sources of income – the employees from nearby studio lots and the film industry that would regularly rent their charming location for movie shoots. With mounting debt and no end in sight due to the complete indoor dining ban, Chili John’s is on the brink of collapse. Todd brings in his team, along with good friend Snoop Dogg, to help save the business.

Other episodes include Todd returning to his hometown of Baton Rouge with basketball Hall of Famer Shaquille O’Neal to help Poor Boy Lloyd’s, a legendary seafood spot in Louisiana; and a 107-year-old candy shop and diner in St. Louis struggling to keep the lights on, as Todd recruits rapper Nelly to help boost sales. Other markets featured in the series are Chicago, Houston, Phoenix, Denver, Las Vegas and New Orleans. 

“Todd Graves is one of the most successful restaurateurs in the country,” said Courtney White, President, Food Network. “Having started his business as a young entrepreneur from the ground up, Todd knows about the challenges that exist in making a restaurant work, which is why he is the perfect person to help save these family-owned establishments.”

Entrepreneur and philanthropist Todd Graves knows just how hard it is to start a restaurant. As founder and CEO of Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers, Todd has grown his business from a single restaurant in his hometown to more than 550 locations across the U.S. and beyond. Having led his team through numerous disasters including Hurricane Katrina and most recently, the COVID-19 pandemic, he also knows how hard it is to keep a restaurant going and to bring it back after a crisis. 

For more info and to see the trailer, visit RestaurantRecovery.com and follow along on social media using the hashtag #RestaurantRecovery. Restaurant Recovery is created with producers Kapil Mahendra and Paul Beahan through their Calabasas Films & Media (CFM) banner and Wheelhouse Entertainment’s Spoke Studios.

About Todd Graves

It began as a college dream – a restaurant that served high-quality chicken finger meals and nothing else. From this vision, Todd Graves created a business plan that, ironically, earned the lowest grade in the class. The professor said a restaurant serving only chicken fingers in South Louisiana would never work. Undaunted, the young entrepreneur presented his business plan to any banker that would see him. Each time, Graves received the same negative response. Knowing he would need to raise his own capital, Graves went to California to work as a boilermaker in an oil refinery and then on to Alaska, where he worked in the dangerous trade of commercial salmon fishing. Upon returning to Baton Rouge, Graves reconstructed an old building himself into the first Raising Cane’s restaurant naming it after his yellow lab…Raising Cane. Approaching its 25th year in business, Raising Cane’s has grown from a single restaurant outside the North Gates of Louisiana State University to more than 550 restaurants in 29 US states and the Middle East. Raising Cane’s ranks as the fastest growing fast food company with over a Billion in the U.S. with annual revenue exceeding $2 Billion. Graves’s entrepreneurial spirit has been recognized in Forbes, Entrepreneur, Business Insider, Inc., Rolling Stone and USA Today. He’s appeared on MSNBC, FOX’s Your World with Neil Cavuto, FOX & Friends and CNN. He’s also been featured on episodes of FOX’s Secret Millionaire, Food Network’s Food Court Wars, Animal Planet’s Treehouse Masters and Discovery’s Fast N’ Loud. Graves ranked #28 in the Top 100 CEOs in the US by Glassdoor. He has been named an Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year and was awarded the SCORE Award for Outstanding Socially Progressive Business. Graves is passionate about his community and showing appreciation to the people who have made his dream a reality. In the past five years, Graves and Raising Cane’s provided $35 million in support to the communities where Cane’s restaurants operate and in 2021, will add another $13 million of support.

About discovery+

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