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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
Learn about the efforts of senior management to rescue Frisch’s Big Boy from eviction and revitalize the iconic family-dining brand amid challenging times in the restaurant industry.
Photo by Andrik Langfield on Unsplash
With the looming threat of eviction shadowing many of Frisch’s Big Boy restaurant locations, a dedicated group of executives has emerged as saviors of the beloved brand. Led by Don Short, the franchising area coach, and Cheryl White, the vice president of operations, this senior management team has taken a bold step to secure the remaining operational restaurants and chart a path towards a brighter future.
The COVID-19 pandemic, coupled with unprecedented cost inflation pressures, has taken a toll on numerous family dining restaurant brands, and Frisch’s Big Boy is no exception. Acknowledging the challenges, Don Short emphasized the importance of adapting to the changing landscape, stating that some locations are no longer viable. This acknowledgment underscores the resilience of the management in addressing the harsh realities of the current restaurant industry environment.
Photo by Andrik Langfield on Unsplash
Don Short and Cheryl White’s combined 38 years of service with Frisch’s Big Boy exemplify their deep-rooted commitment to the brand's success. Their long-standing tenure not only showcases their intimate understanding of the company's operations but also highlights their emotional investment in preserving the legacy of Frisch’s Big Boy.
Amid the turbulence, the executives have identified promising locations that are well-positioned for future expansion. Their strategic vision includes not only revitalizing existing units but also introducing new restaurants in the coming years. This forward-looking approach demonstrates their confidence in the brand's enduring appeal and their commitment to its sustained growth.
The legal saga surrounding Frisch’s Big Boy, with eviction notices and lawsuits over unpaid rent, has added another layer of complexity to the brand's revival efforts. The involvement of NNN Reit, the landlord of a significant portion of Frisch’s locations, has further intensified the situation. Despite these challenges, the management remains resolute in their determination to overcome hurdles and ensure the brand's survival.
Photo by Andrik Langfield on Unsplash
The acquisition of Frisch’s by NRD Capital in 2015 marked a turning point for the brand, leading to a subsequent rebranding and modernization phase. The appointment of James Walker as CEO in 2022 signaled a new chapter for the company. While Walker's departure in July brought changes, the core essence of Frisch’s Big Boy as a cherished family-dining destination remains steadfast, poised for a resurgence under the stewardship of dedicated executives like Don Short and Cheryl White.
Photo by Andrik Langfield on Unsplash
In the face of adversity, the Frisch’s Big Boy executives are committed to preserving the brand's legacy and ensuring its continued presence in the hearts of loyal patrons. Through resilience, strategic planning, and unwavering dedication, they aim to navigate the challenges posed by recent events and lay the foundation for a thriving future for Frisch’s Big Boy.