EON: Enhanced Online News:
With a top-to-bottom brand overhaul well underway and a new leadership team in place, Sizzler, America’s original family steak house, is again in the franchising business.
Chief Executive and President Kerry Kramp suspended franchise sales shortly after taking the job in 2008. “We really needed to stop and take a close look at every aspect of the business,†Kramp said. “We spent the last 18 months listening to our franchisees, our staff and our guests with the goal of learning what makes people love Sizzler.â€
Kramp is the first to acknowledge the job of rebuilding the brand is not over, but he’s confident enough in Sizzler’s retooling to resume selling franchises. Veteran restaurant development executive Mark Lyso recently was hired to lead the new franchising effort. Lyso’s involvement is credited with helping Famous Dave’s grow from two to 175 restaurants in his 14 years. More.