International Franchise Association Acquires Franchise Update Media: The International Franchise Association (IFA) today announced it has formally completed a transaction to acquire Franchise Update Media (FUM), a leading event and media company in the franchise sector for nearly 40 years, with the two organizations joining as one effective July 1, 2025. Following an agreement signed at FUM’s Multi-Unit Franchising Conference in Las Vegas in March, the two will maintain their separate brands while operating under IFA. The merger expands upon IFA’s strategic priorities, particularly in the area of franchisee engagement, content, and education of prospective franchisees.
“This partnership ushers in a new era for IFA that will deliver value for all stakeholders in franchising – franchisor, franchisees, suppliers and new entrants considering the franchise business model,” said Matt Haller, IFA President and CEO. “Franchise Update Media is a trusted resource because of their strong leadership team and a robust network of volunteer multi-unit franchisees and industry leaders dedicated to developing leading events and educational content by franchisees, for franchisees. By adding this expertise to IFA’s existing events and educational platforms, IFA will become an even stronger organization to deliver on our mission of protecting, enhancing and promoting franchising worldwide.”“For nearly forty years, we have worked to build a business and a team to support everyone in franchising,” said Therese Thilgen and Gary Gardner, co-founders of Franchise Update Media. “We knew IFA was the right partner to usher our business into the next era – preserving our brand and the mission we have carried out for decades. We look forward to a continued partnership and what the future holds for franchising.”
Newk's Eatery Welcomes Back Industry Veteran Chris Cheek as Chief Development Officer: Newk's Eatery has announced the return of Chris Cheek as chief development officer. A familiar face with deep ties to the brand, Cheek previously served in the same role from 2014 to 2019.
"I was Newk's very first chief development officer back in 2014," said Cheek. "I left in 2019 for another opportunity, but Newk's has always felt like home."
Following his recent stint as CDO at Modern Market Eatery, Cheek took time to explore his next move before returning to Newk's in 2025. The brand, now backed by CapitalSpring and part of the FSC Franchise Co. portfolio alongside Beef 'O' Brady's and The Brass Tap, offered the right mix of timing, team and potential.
Chicken Salad Chick Appoints Ervin Hernandez as New Director of Marketing: Chicken Salad Chick announced today the appointment of Ervin Hernandez as the brand’s newest director of marketing. In this role, Hernandez will oversee both franchise and brand marketing for Chicken Salad Chick, including local store marketing and media initiatives. With more than two decades of experience driving communications and marketing strategies for top food service brands, Hernandez will play a leading role in advancing Chicken Salad Chick’s growth and local marketing efforts.
"We’re excited to welcome such a seasoned multi-unit and franchise marketing executive,” said Tom Carr, Chief Marketing Officer of Chicken Salad Chick. “Ervin’s leadership in franchise and regional marketing, combined with his experience in digital strategy and innovation, positions him to make an immediate impact. His servant leadership style aligns perfectly with our values.”
Hernandez joins Chicken Salad Chick following a decade at Firehouse Subs, where he most recently served as director of field marketing, overseeing brand strategy execution across the U.S and Canada.
Weed Man Appoints New Chief Marketing Officer Laura Baker: Weed Man today announced the appointment of Laura Baker as the company’s new Chief Marketing Officer (CMO).
“We are thrilled to welcome Laura to our executive team,” says Weed Man CEO Jennifer Lemcke. “Laura’s impressive background as a results-oriented leader in marketing brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the Weed Man brand. She is an excellent addition to our team as we continue to drive growth and build momentum toward our vision of being a billion-dollar company.”
In her previous role as the CMO of Home Hardware Stores Limited, Baker displayed a strong track record of understanding customers and stakeholders to drive sustainable revenue growth. Laura’s focus on brand loyalty and driving traffic to the locally owned stores was pivotal in driving the Scene+ partnership and revitalizing the BeautiTone paint private brand.
Smokey Mo’s BBQ Welcomes Ryan Eardley as VP of Finance: Smokey Mo’s BBQ proudly announces the addition of Ryan Eardley as its new Vice President of Finance. With over a decade of financial leadership across a variety of industries, Eardley brings deep expertise and a forward-thinking approach.
Eardley has held senior finance roles at several brands, including almost 10 years at Freebirds World Burrito. His strategic mindset and passion for sustainable growth make him a strong addition to the Smokey Mo’s leadership team.
“I’m thrilled to join the Smokey Mo’s team during such a pivotal time for the brand,” said Eardley. “The brand’s commitment to warm hospitality, bold flavors, and neighborhood charm aligns with my passion for promoting meaningful guest experiences and supporting franchisees as they bring Smokey Mo’s to more communities.”
Rolling Suds Names Tom Gissler as Chief Executive Officer: Rolling Suds has appointed Tom Gissler as its new Chief Executive Officer. Former CEO Aaron Harper now assumes the role of chairman of the board.
“Launching our franchise opportunity has been the most rewarding challenge of my professional career, and I’m proud of the milestones we’ve achieved in just a few years,” said Aaron Harper, former CEO of Rolling Suds and Current Chairman of the Board. “Tom Gissler is the kind of leader who will take Rolling Suds to new levels without losing its foundation.”
Domino's Pizza® Elects Stephen Kramer to Board of Directors: Domino's Pizza, Inc. today announced the election of Stephen H. Kramer to its Board of Directors.
"We are thrilled to welcome Stephen to the Domino's Board of Directors," said David Brandon, Domino's Executive Chairman. "We are confident he will bring valuable insights and outstanding experience to our board. We look forward to the contributions Stephen will make as we work with our outstanding leadership team to achieve the goals and aspirations embodied in our Hungry for MORE strategy."
Kramer currently serves as President, Chief Executive Officer and a member of the Board of Directors of Bright Horizons Family Solutions Inc. He has served as CEO and board member since January 2018 and as President since January 2016. Kramer joined Bright Horizons in September 2006 through the acquisition of College Coach, a company he co-founded. Earlier in his career, Kramer worked at Fidelity Ventures and Arthur D. Little.
Woodhouse Spa Three New Spa Openings: Woodhouse Spa has expanded its footprint with the opening of three new franchise locations in Louisville, KY; Sarasota, FL; and Eden Prairie, MN. Each new Woodhouse Spa is independently owned and operated, led by a mix of experienced and first-time franchisees.
“We’re proud to welcome the new Louisville, Sarasota, and Eden Prairie locations to Woodhouse Spa,” said Ariel Clay, Chief Operating Officer of Woodhouse Spa. “As wellness continues to play a vital role in everyday life, these new openings allow us to meet guests where they are - both geographically and in their personal wellness journeys.”
Taco Mac closes several restaurants as it plans to invest in new markets: Taco Mac, an Atlanta-based sports bar concept founded in 1979 and known for its extensive beer selection and pub fare, has recently closed several locations. In May, Taco Mac closed its original location in the Virginia-Highland neighborhood in Atlanta after more than 40 years in operation.
In June, Taco Mac closed a second Atlanta location. According to Fox 5 Atlanta, the chain’s Peachtree Street sports bar in Midtown abruptly shuttered without explanation. And, last week, Taco Mac’s restaurant in downtown Chattanooga, Tenn., also permanently closed. Local 3 News reported that a sign on the door read, “Serving this community has been an incredible honor. We’ve cherished every moment — from cheering on our local sports teams together to celebrating your special milestones.”
