Company Taps Industry Veterans for Vice President of Franchise Sales and Vice President of Real Estate and Development Roles
Pepper Lunch, the Japanese-born experiential fast-casual concept unlike any other, with more than 500 locations in 15 countries, has announced it has tapped franchise sales executive, Paul Tran, as its Vice President of Franchise Development, and Dana Hathaitham as its Vice President of Real Estate and Development.
Regarded as one of the most accomplished franchise sales executives in the country, Tran brings more than 15 years of uncovering and incubating rapid-growth fast casual and QSR brands, including owning and operating nine Halal Guys restaurants in the Southern California market.
As a founding member of the disruptive and industry-blazing Kitchen United, the revolutionaries in the virtual kitchen movement, Dana has helped countless hospitality brands launch, perfecting every aspect of their design, workflow, and construction. Prior to joining Pepper Lunch, she ran her own consulting firm, supporting entrepreneurs looking to create a local mainstay all the way to Emanuel Filiberto of Savoy.
In their newest roles, Tran will report to Pepper Lunch CEO, Troy Hooper, and Hathaitham will report to COO, Mark Bailey.
Established in 1994, Pepper Lunch is one of Japan’s largest homegrown franchise restaurant brands with over 500 locations in 15 countries. Renowned for quality food served in a unique and innovative way for dining in or delivery, and with guests being able to get in, dine, and be on their way in 20 minutes for under $20, the beloved Japanese-based brand seeks experienced franchise partners to expand its proven business model and cutting-edge customer offerings across the United States.
“It’s our goal to create the same fondness guests have for Pepper Lunch abroad right here in the states, and to accomplish that, a best-in-class leadership team is critical,” said Pepper Lunch CEO, Troy Hooper. “We have gone from filing our FDD to nearly 40 restaurants in the development pipeline, headed by experienced multi-unit franchisees, in just a few short months. With the addition of Paul and Dana to our leadership team, we’re anticipating a strong continued growth trajectory as we head to 100 locations open in the coming few years.”
The original fast casual Japanese D-I-Y teppan restaurant, Pepper Lunch was founded in 1994 by one of Japan’s most famous chefs and entrepreneurs who wanted to introduce affordable premium steaks with quality ingredients served on a sizzling iron plate. Deliciously irresistible, Pepper Lunch proudly offers quality, tasty, and affordable meals sourced from the finest ingredients paired with an unforgettable experience. For more information about Pepper Lunch, please visit PepperLunchRestaurants.com.
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