Parts Town, the global market leader in foodservice parts distribution, has acquired the foodservice parts distribution and field service business assets of 3Wire Group, which is a Marmon company (“Marmon”). Financial terms were not disclosed. These 3Wire businesses primarily distribute foodservice equipment parts, bringing unique value-added solutions to major chains and food equipment service companies…. read more

The foodservice industry honored the life and work of Joseph K. Fassler, former president and CEO of Restaura Inc., when the National Restaurant Association posthumously presented him with its Second annual Industry Legends Award at the International Foodservice Manufacturers Association’s Silver & Gold Plate gala on May 20. Dawn Sweeney, president and CEO of the… read more

Texas Roadhouse announced a key executive change, and it’s coming from within. The 558-unit, Louisville-based chain promoted Tonya Robinson to chief financial officer, replacing company president Scott Colosi, who served in the interim role since 2015. Robinson, previously vice president of finance and investor relations, joined Texas Roadhouse in 1998 and has been a key… read more

The Middleby Corporation announced the acquisition of JoeTap, a subsidiary of A.C. Beverage, Inc. The company is a leading innovator of on-demand nitro and cold brew coffee dispensing equipment for the commercial foodservice industry. “JoeTap is a recognized leader in the nitro brew category, a market that is quickly gaining momentum. This acquisition extends our… read more

The Middleby Corporation announced the acquisition of Josper S.A., a leading manufacturer of charcoal grill and oven cooking equipment for commercial foodservice and residential applications. Based in Pineda de Mar, Spain, near Barcelona, Josper has approximately $20 million USD in annual revenues. “Josper is a recognized leader in the specialty charcoal cooking category. Charcoal cooking… read more

  Middleby Acquires Firex Srl The Middleby Corporation announced the acquisition of Firex Srl. The company is a leading manufacturer of steam cooking equipment for the commercial foodservice industry. Based in Sedico, Italy, Firex has approximately $20 million USD in annual revenues. “The Firex acquisition extends our product offerings in steam and sous vide cooking, categories which continue to grow… read more

Fish City Grill has named Dave Orenstein to the long unfilled positions of president and chief operating officer, the company said. Orenstein most recently served as president of the fast-casual Snappy Salads Enterprises. Both companies are based in Dallas. Orenstein will also oversee Fish City’s second casual-dining concept, Half Shells. “I’m thrilled to be joining… read more

John Ghingo has been named president of Applegate Farms, L.L.C., a subsidiary of Hormel Foods Corp. Most recently, Mr. Ghingo was president of plant-based foods and beverages at the WhiteWave Foods Co., which was acquired by Danone. Previously, Mr. Ghingo held several marketing leadership positions at Mondelez International. He is a graduate of the University… read more

Kristen Hartman has been promoted to brand president at Cinnabon, Inc., a subsidiary of Focus Brands, Inc. Ms. Hartman will be responsible for the brand’s strategy and continued business growth. Ms. Hartman joined Focus Brands in 2012 as vice-president of marketing. In 2015, she was promoted to senior vice-president of global marketing for the snack… read more

Do you think the music you hear in a restaurant matters? And how much does it matter? Interior design strategies are vital for any successful restaurant. Menus, lighting, seating layout, materials, and colors all combine to deliver a great customer experience and to bring the brand to life. Of all sensory inputs, we respond quickest… read more