Charlotte, NC (Restaurant News Release) Industry veteran Ken Green, who for more than 30 years has driven rapid market growth and record returns for nationally recognized restaurant franchises, has been named president and COO of Salsarita’s Fresh Mexican Grill, a fast-casual chain with locations in 19 states.
Prior to joining Salsarita’s, Green was president and CEO of Easy Street Restaurant Group, a highly respected and successful restaurant and hospitality consulting company.
Founded in Charlotte in 2000, Salsarita’s is experiencing rapid growth with more than 80 restaurants. It offers Mexican favorites such as five flavorful house-made salsas, custom burritos, tacos, nachos and salads all made fresh to order with an extensive selection of proteins, toppings and fillings.
“Salsarita’s has experienced tremendous success and I want to further build upon that foundation by focusing on improving profitability at the store level,” Green said.” I also want to ensure that we continue to be innovative with our delicious menu offerings and provide our customers with everything they expect when they visit Salsarita’s.”
Green has a long track record of success. While COO of the McAlister’s Deli brand, a quick-casual chain with more than 300 locations, Green developed and implemented a more cost-effective store prototype and streamlined and introduced a more contemporary menu that included hand-tossed salads and a line of panini sandwiches. Green was also instrumental in leading Friendly’s Ice Cream, a chain of more than 500 family-style restaurants, out of a multi-year traffic decline. As COO and senior vice president of operations, Green instituted innovative quality-control programs, focused on recruiting top talent and returned more control to store level, resulting in $800 million in annual sales.
In addition, Green has served as vice president of Cosi Sandwich Bar and Xando Coffee and Bar and has also held positions with TGI Fridays and Las Vegas’ Stratosphere Casino, Hotel & Tower. Green holds a master’s degree in business from Arizona State University.
About Salsarita’s
Founded in Charlotte, N.C. in 2000, Salsarita’s Fresh Mexican Grill offers Mexican favorites such as five flavorful house-made salsas, custom burritos, tacos, nachos and salads made fresh to order with an extensive selection of proteins, toppings and fillings. Salsarita’s was acquired by franchise industry veteran Phil Friedman in 2011 and operates more than 80 locations in 18 states, including 12 that are company-owned. For more information, visit www.salsaritas.com, like us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/salsaritas and follow us on Twitter and Instagram @salsaritas.
Contact:
Rhonda Sanderson
Sanderson & Associates
847-612-9829
Rhonda@sandersonpr.com