Fazoli’s (Lexington, Ky.) has hired James Franks as vp of franchising for the Italian quick service restaurant chain.
Franks, whose career includes 22 years launching brands and franchise programs, most recently served as Red Mango’s vp of franchising. Prior to that, he served as the national director of franchise sales at Dunkin Brands.
“James Franks has a strong track record of helping to expand established brands,” says ceo and president Carl Howard. “With his hiring, all the pieces for Fazoli’s growth are now in place.”
Franks’ initial priorities will be to create a strategic franchising program that appeals to current franchisees, as well as, to operators of other brands. The company plans to announce a list of focus markets for growth and to launch a new franchising web site. The company recently introduced a new menu, new prototype and a new service style to drive a sales turnaround.
Fazoli’s is owned by Sun Capital Partners, with more than 220 restaurants.