Heat-Driven Expansion: Angry Chickz
A profile of Angry Chickz’s bold heat, culture-led growth, and disciplined franchise model expanding from California to Texas and Arizona.
Apr 18, 2026
A profile of Angry Chickz’s bold heat, culture-led growth, and disciplined franchise model expanding from California to Texas and Arizona.
Apr 18, 2026
Photo by Maria Orlova on Unsplash
NRN's Investment Summit connects emerging restaurant brands with investors in Nashville, blending education, pitches, and deal-making to accelerate growth.
Apr 18, 2026
RaceTrac acquires Potbelly to accelerate a franchising-led expansion, backed by new leadership and an expanded development playbook.
Apr 18, 2026
Photo by Adrien Olichon on Unsplash
Chili’s brings back Ziosk for pay-at-table, loyalty, and AI insights across 1,100+ locations, signaling a thoughtful, guest-focused digital restart.
Apr 18, 2026
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Scottsdale welcomes a compact, all-day market from True Food Kitchen blending wellness-forward meals with grab-and-go convenience, signaling broader growth into market formats.
Apr 18, 2026
The Melting Pot blends modernization with conversions to grow, inviting brighter guest experiences while honoring its fondue heritage.
Apr 18, 2026
Photo by Matt Benson on Unsplash
South Block grows along the East Coast with Savory Fund, preserving neighborhood-first ethos and people-on-the-block philosophy.
Apr 18, 2026
Photo by Julian Myles on Unsplash
California's 2024 PAGA reforms curb abuse and streamline workplace claims, balancing worker protections with clearer compliance guardrails for employers.
Apr 18, 2026
A thoughtful look at how fast-service restaurants are embedding safety into infrastructure through cameras, lighting, guards, and real-time communications.
Apr 17, 2026
Four leaders map growth through core offerings, culture, and authentic marketing, outlining Swig, L&L Hawaiian Barbecue, Firebirds, and El Pollo Loco.
Apr 17, 2026
Explore the marketing journey of Jami Horowitz Kimbrough through various hospitality brands leading up to Surcheros, and how innovative strategies are driving growth in the industry.
Photo by Melanie Deziel on Unsplash
Photo by Melanie Deziel on Unsplash
Jami Horowitz Kimbrough's career in the hospitality industry has been marked by a strategic evolution in marketing methodologies. Starting with renowned brands like The Coca-Cola Company and Tropical Smoothie Cafe, she experienced the dynamics of working with different scales and diverse budgets. This exposure enabled Kimbrough to understand the nuances of high-impact marketing while being resourceful with limited resources.
Upon joining Surcheros, a Southern Tex-Mex chain, Kimbrough embarked on a mission to redefine the brand's positioning and strategies. From addressing inconsistencies to proposing a comprehensive repositioning project, Kimbrough emphasized guest segmentation, fresh branded assets, and an off-premises dining strategy. This overhaul not only improved customer perception but also set the stage for menu innovation and development, catering to financial goals and guest preferences.
Photo by Melanie Deziel on Unsplash
Kimbrough's focus on research and development at Surcheros highlights the brand's commitment to staying ahead of industry trends. By experimenting with catering offerings, introducing unique dessert options, and emphasizing fresh-made food under the 'Fresh Mex' concept, Surcheros has differentiated itself in the competitive Tex-Mex landscape. These initiatives have not only pleased customers but also showcased a positive impact on sales performance.
Recognizing the importance of leveraging digital channels, Kimbrough emphasized a digital refresh, revisiting loyalty programs, and enhancing the brand's online presence. By partnering with platforms like DoorDash and utilizing paid media effectively, Surcheros successfully increased transaction rates and customer engagement. Kimbrough's insight into prioritizing conversion over brand awareness for smaller budgets demonstrates a strategic approach to driving immediate results.
Photo by Melanie Deziel on Unsplash
With a vision to expand Surcheros from 30 to 100 restaurants in the next five years, Kimbrough's efforts in streamlining marketing and operational processes are key to sustaining growth. By focusing on Southern markets and investing in community-centric values, Surcheros aims to carry its hospitable ethos into new territories. Kimbrough's emphasis on kindness, community prosperity, and guest satisfaction reflects a holistic approach to brand development and expansion.