On January 21, 2025, A&W Restaurants announced the appointment of Meredeth Jones as the Vice President of Franchise Development and Design, as stated in a press release. With over 15 years of experience in franchising, Jones is set to play a crucial role in advancing the growth and expansion of the iconic 105-year-old brand.
Kevin Bazner, the CEO of A&W Restaurants, expressed his confidence in Jones, stating, “When growing our A&W family, we look for people who love and know our brand, are passionate about franchising, and dedicated to supporting our franchisees’ success, and for us, that person is Meredeth.” Bazner believes that Jones’ expertise and passion for the industry will have a positive impact on the company, franchisees, and partners as the food-service industry continues to evolve and entrepreneurial opportunities arise.
Prior to joining A&W Restaurants, Jones held leadership positions in franchise development for well-known brands such as Caribou Coffee, Inspire Brands, and TheCoderSchool. Her contributions to these companies were instrumental in transforming and expanding their businesses. In 2010, Jones founded Two Chicks Consulting, a franchise consulting company that supports the growth of emerging brands. Now, as the Vice President of Franchise Development and Design at A&W Restaurants, Jones will leverage her extensive experience to drive national expansion, enhance brand awareness, strengthen relationships between franchisors and franchisees, and attract new entrepreneurial talent.
With her background and track record of success in the franchising industry, Jones is well-positioned to lead A&W Restaurants into a new era of growth and innovation. Her strategic vision and commitment to excellence make her a valuable addition to the A&W team as they continue to adapt to the changing landscape of the food-service industry.
In her new role, Jones will focus on developing and executing strategies to expand the A&W brand across the nation, ensuring that franchisees have the resources and support they need to thrive. By enhancing brand awareness and fostering strong relationships within the franchise community, Jones aims to position A&W Restaurants as a leader in the industry and a top choice for aspiring entrepreneurs.
As A&W Restaurants looks towards the future, Jones’ leadership will be instrumental in driving the company’s success and solidifying its position as a beloved and enduring brand in the fast-food industry. Her passion for franchising, dedication to excellence, and proven track record of success make her the ideal candidate to spearhead A&W Restaurants’ growth and expansion efforts.
Overall, the appointment of Meredeth Jones as the Vice President of Franchise Development and Design at A&W Restaurants signals an exciting new chapter for the brand. With her expertise and strategic vision, Jones is poised to lead A&W Restaurants to new heights of success and ensure its continued growth and relevance in the ever-evolving food-service industry.
