Bolstered by a new injection of capital, Snap Kitchen on Tuesday named former Weight Watchers executive David Kirchhoff as CEO.
The Austin, Texas-based chain, known for its healthful takeaway options, also completed a $22 million round of fundraising from existing private-equity investor Catterton, along with co-founder Bradley Radoff, the company said.
Kirchhoff, WHO spent 13 years with Weight Watchers, most recently as CEO, will take on the Snap Kitchen CEO role previously held by co-founder Martin Berson, who will remain active in day-to-day operations as president.
“We are really excited to have Dave join our team,” Berson said in a statement. “Snap Kitchen has grown significantly in our short history and, with Dave at the helm, we are positioned to take our business to exciting new heights.”
Prior to Weight Watchers, Kirchhoff was chief financial officer of the Enthusiast Media Group of Primedia Inc., a print and digital content provider. He also served as director of corporate strategy and development for Pepsico Inc. and as a manager and consultant with The Boston Consulting Group in Washington, D.C.
Now with 30 units open in Texas and Chicago, Snap Kitchen last year was selected both as a Breakout Brand and a Hot Concept by Nation’s Restaurant News. In 2013, Catterton first invested in the then 10-unit chain to help fuel future growth.
Snap Kitchen features dishes made from local and organic ingredients with a broad range of healthful lifestyles in mind. Most of the menu is gluten-free and includes options for vegetarians, vegans and diners looking for paleo, dairy-free, low-carb or low-sodium meals.
In his new role, Berson said he will fully dedicate himself to “upping the ante” as the company relentlessly pursues “our passion for phenomenal food, expertly sourced, and delivered with transparent nutritionals.”
Kirchhoff in a statement said Snap Kitchen is the concept of his dreams.
“Having spent nearly 14 years helping people learn how to live healthy lives and navigate a difficult food environment, I have been eagerly waiting for a concept like this to be created,” he said. “Consumers deserve a meal option that is without compromise: great food, great health and maximum convenience. Snap Kitchen is all of these things — truly the holy grail of future-facing food.”
Contact Lisa Jennings at [email protected]
Follow her on Twitter @livetodineout