Thomas Keller Group Settles EEOC Case for $2 Million
Thomas Keller Restaurant Group will pay $2M to settle an EEOC harassment and retaliation case tied to Bouchon Las Vegas, closing a long-running action from 2018.
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Thomas Keller Restaurant Group will pay $2M to settle an EEOC harassment and retaliation case tied to Bouchon Las Vegas, closing a long-running action from 2018.
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Cinnabon posted a net gain of 308 U.S. units in 2025 and launched Seattle’s Best Coffee in 2026 to boost beverage mix, margins, and franchise-driven expansion.
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Wonder closed a $650M Series D at a $9B valuation to expand locations and invest in robotics, AI, and delivery tech, accelerating its automation-first restaurant model.
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Mother-daughter duo Ciara Boyce and Tracey Pidge bring Hotworx to Wasilla, the first of four Alaska studios, extending a fast-growing 800+ location brand.
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Explore the impact of Blain Shortreed, the Chief Operating Officer at Ascent Hospitality Management, on restaurant operations, strategic growth, and franchise relations.
Photo by Jason Goodman
Photo by Jason Goodman
Blain Shortreed, the former Brand President of Huddle House who now holds the title of Chief Operating Officer at Ascent Hospitality Management, brings a wealth of experience and a strategic vision to his new role. With a focus on strategic growth, operations, and franchise relations, Shortreed is spearheading the transformation of both Huddle House and Perkins, two iconic brands under the Ascent umbrella. His role involves overseeing operations at these establishments, ensuring that the guest experience is continually enhanced, and driving sustained growth.
Photo by Jason Goodman
At Perkins, Shortreed is leading an ongoing transformation initiative that commenced with a fresh brand identity and a modernized restaurant image. Additionally, the introduction of the fast-casual Griddle & Go concept showcases Shortreed's commitment to innovation and responding to evolving consumer preferences. By working closely with the Perkins leadership team and operators, Shortreed aims to elevate the guest experience further and ensure the brand is positioned for long-term success.
Photo by Jason Goodman
Shortreed's impact at Huddle House has been significant, especially amidst challenging market conditions. Through his strategic approach known as "Innovate / Elevate / Communicate," Shortreed has propelled Huddle House towards ambitious goals of achieving $1 million average unit volumes and expanding to 500 units within the next five years. His ability to enhance and reorganize leadership teams has been a crucial element in driving momentum and setting the brand on a trajectory of growth and success.
The expertise that Blain Shortreed brings to Ascent Hospitality Management is invaluable in optimizing business performance across the board. With a proven track record in franchise operations and restaurant leadership, Shortreed's strategic acumen is crucial in streamlining operations, improving profitability, and supporting franchisee development. His extensive experience in the quick-service restaurant (QSR) sector, including roles at Yum Brands and Long John Silver's, has equipped him with the knowledge and skills to navigate the complexities of the industry successfully.
Photo by Jason Goodman
As James O'Reilly, the CEO of Ascent Hospitality Management, highlighted Shortreed's pivotal role in achieving the company's long-term vision, it is evident that Shortreed's influence will continue to shape the future of Huddle House and Perkins. By focusing on enhancing guest experiences, driving growth, and fostering strong franchise relations, Shortreed is positioning Ascent Hospitality Management for sustained success in the competitive hospitality industry.