National Burger Chain Hires McD’s Exec to Supercharge Growth
Whataburger has recruited former
McDonald’s
executive Todd Ewen to aid in accelerating its ongoing expansion.
The American quick-service restaurant company verified that Ewen will assume the position of senior vice president and chief development officer starting from March 24.
“I am eager to assist the leadership team in achieving the significant growth objectives they have outlined,” Ewen stated.
It is reported that Whataburger lured away the US-native Ewen, boasting two decades of expertise, to aid in their ongoing successful growth across the country.
“We aim to introduce Honey Butter Biscuits along with exceptional hospitality to over 24 million additional customers this year,” stated Whataburger Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer Alexander Ivannikov.
Todd’s extensive knowledge of real estate within the fast-food sector will play a crucial role in assisting Whataburger in implementing their expansion plan. This will ensure that delectable meals and excellent experiences reach additional communities and attract more enthusiasts.
In his new position, Ewen will transition from serving the globe’s leading hamburger company to joining one of the top 100 largest companies in the United States.
The Golden arches has 14,000 locations in the US alone, compared to just over 1,000 Whataburger restaurants.
The company based in Texas is developing its five-year expansion strategy, as President and CEO Debbie Stroud affirmed that they go over this annually.
Stroud mentioned that the review assists them in determining where they can make the most significant difference.
As part of its strategy, it aims to keep growing with intentions to establish new eateries in various locations.
North Carolina
this year.
“For North Carolina particularly, this year it focuses on Charlotte and the nearby regions, while next year it will shift to Raleigh and its surrounding areas,” Stroud explained.
QSR
.
The
Texas
-based chain has already expanded to six additional states, including
Florida
and
Georgia
.
It is also set to launch another site in San Antonio, Texas, via a collaboration with Love’s Travel Shops.
Whataburger has not disclosed its sales forecast for 2025, however, it generated more than $4 billion in revenue last year.
Stroud mentioned that the company intends to broaden its reach to additional states down the line, yet he advised fans to ‘keep an eye out’ for updates.
In 2000, Ewen started his professional journey as a commercial real estate officer at US Bank Corporation.
He was
In 2009, they were appointed as a McDonald’s regional real estate manager, and then took on the role of development director in 2013.
In 2016, the executive departed from the fast-food chain and established L3 Commercial Development in Raleigh, North Carolina, the following year.
In those years, he headed over
$300 million in leasing and buying deals, while also connecting with various brokers, developers, and investors.
Ewen expressed gratitude towards the ‘amazing individuals’ he has collaborated with, and mentioned that he recognized Whataburger as ‘something extraordinary’ in a social media post.
LinkedIn
.
The ex-McDonald’s worker from North Carolina has verified his plans to relocate to San Antonio.
In addition to the expansion, Whataburger is marking its anniversary.
75th birthday
with various offers.
Among its new menu items was the Monterey Melt, a dish that the chain stated had been frequently requested.
Instagram
and
Reddit
.
Whataburger started offering both Mexican Hot Chocolate Coffee and the Mexican Hot Chocolate Shake.
Among the new offerings for its anniversary, the chain introduced a ‘digital home’ feature and also revealed a partnership with well-known clothing label Wrangler.
The firm intends to present an array of additional promotions and competitions as it approaches its birthday on August 8.
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