FROM THE WOLF DEN

1) Extraordinary Brands Acquires Row House

Extraordinary Brands proudly announces the acquisition of Row House, marking the third boutique fitness brand to join the fitness conglomerate. Row House will join Eat the Frog Fitness and pūrvelo in the expanding lineup of Extraordinary Brands.

Row House was founded in 2014 by a team passionate about delivering an inclusive and effective full-body workout through the sport of rowing. It’s yet another brand divestiture from the struggling Xponential Fitness. 

2) Hummus Republic is Expanding

Hummus Republic, a leader in the modern fast-casual Mediterranean food industry, is excited to announce its aggressive growth strategy for 2024. 

By opening three to four new locations each month, the company aims to reach 50 new stores by the end of the year, demonstrating a remarkable 100% year-over-year growth. This expansion is driven by Hummus Republic’s franchise-friendly business model, which stands out for its simplicity, operational ease, and low investment requirements.

Hummus Republic’s franchise model emphasizes streamlined operations, with an efficient setup that requires minimal staff and space, reducing overhead costs. The company offers extensive support, including site selection assistance, training programs, marketing support, and ongoing operational guidance.

3) Crispy Cones 🤝 Shark Tank

Pitching a specialty treat concept in front of a panel of ultra-wealthy investors is scary, but Crispy Cones founders Jeremy and Kaitlyn Carlson did just that on “Shark Tank.”

“Kate and I have always told each other that we’ll go as far as our business takes us,” Jeremy Carlson said. “One day we’re watching the show and we’re like, what’s the difference between them and us?”

The pair applied and made the cut, appearing in an episode that aired in March 2023. They had their fingers crossed for a deal with real estate mogul Barbara Corcoran or multi-billionaire Mark Cuban, two longtime “sharks” on the show. The Carlsons walked away with a $200,000 investment from Corcoran in exchange for 20 percent equity in the ice cream cone business.

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EXTRA SAUCE 💥

McDonald’s New Grandma McFlurry Tackles Loneliness Epidemi
Addressing Social Isolation with Nostalgia, the McFlurry Aims to Support Older Adults

For many Americans, visits with Grandma conjure memories of excursions to special places and events, getting to stay up late (don’t tell Mom and Dad!), and indulgent treats like warm cookies dunked in milk. McDonald’s is channeling those warm fuzzies in an effort to tackle the loneliness epidemic with its new Grandma McFlurry soft-serve dessert. McDonald’s will also donate to Little Brothers – Friends of the Elderly, a national organization that supports older adults experiencing isolation and loneliness.

Puerto Rican migrant becomes an award-winning Rita’s Italian Ice franchisee
Hilda Alfano migrated from Puerto Rico in search of better healthcare for her son and become a successful New Jersey business owner

In this week’s installment of Franchisee Spotlight, we spoke with Hilda Alfano, who came to the mainland United States from Puerto Rico almost four decades ago in search for a better life and better healthcare for her son. Alfano taught herself English, and worked as an office manager for many years before opening 

Jamie Kapalko Named Jersey Mike’s General Counsel
Jersey Mike’s Subs announced today that Jamie Kapalko has been promoted to vice president and general counsel.

Kapalko joined Jersey Mike’s in 2015 and most recently served as deputy general counsel. She will be responsible for overseeing all legal affairs including corporate contracts and regulatory compliance.

“Jamie’s leadership touches every aspect of our business,” said Peter Cancro, Founder and CEO, Jersey Mike’s Franchise Systems, Inc. “Her strategic counsel and sound judgment will help us continue to build customer trust and the Jersey Mike’s brand as we grow both in the U.S. and abroad.”