SCOTTSDALE Ariz. Industry veteran Chris Prasifka has been promoted to president of Kahala Franchise Corp., the franchisor of such restaurant concepts as Blimpie, Cold Stone Creamery, Taco Time and Cereality.
The job is apparently a new post, carved out from the prior responsibilities of David Guarino, who remains president of Kahala Franchise’s parent, Kahala Corp. The parent concern said Guarino would focus on strategic issues.
Prasifka joined Kahala Corp. in October 2007 as an executive vice president. Previously, he served as senior vice president of franchise operations and strategic development for Canteen, a division of contract-feeding giant Compass Group. He also worked at Focus Brands, franchisor of Carvel and Cinnabon, and was involved with the Mrs. Field’s and TCBY brands.
Kevin Blackwell, Kahala Corp.’s chairman and chief executive, said Prasifka “has a comprehensive operating background, a strong commitment to franchisees and is recognized for his leadership in gaining consensus both internally and externally in very diverse franchise organizations.”
Kahala also franchises Frullati Cafe & Bakery, Great Steak & Potato Co., Johnnie’s New York Pizzeria, NRgize Lifestyle Cafe, Ranch1, Rollerz, Samurai Sam’s Teriyaki Grill and Surf City Squeeze. The company said it has $1.1 billion in systemwide sales.