Mr. Fuller joined the company in 2008 as chief financial officer and will lead the company's widespread expansion effort, including domestic and international franchise growth and the implementation of newly designed store concepts. Mr. Hackbardt, a restaurant industry veteran, will focus on consumer research, new media and product development in 2010.
With extensive experience in managing business finances in restaurant companies such as Rubio's, Del Taco and CKE Restaurants, Mr. Fuller said he looks forward to building upon the company's current growth and to enhancing the Johnny Rockets experience for guests, employees and franchise owners, around the world.
Johnny Rockets plans to launch 30 to 40 franchise locations this year, including three new concepts: sports lounges, mobile kitchens and its new FAST! model, which offers a new streamlined menu, "create-your-own-burger" option and enhanced franchise opportunities.
In 2007, the international restaurant chain was acquired by RedZone Capital Fund II. Since that time, the chain has expanded by 50% and opened stores in 11 new countries. Johnny Rockets has about 280 corporate and franchise-owned restaurants in 27 states, Washington D.C., Puerto Rico and 11 countries, including those found in Six Flags amusement parks and aboard Royal Caribbean cruise ships.
