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Taziki’s Mediterranean Café, founded and based in Birmingham, has a new chief executive officer. The company last week announced Dan Simpson, its chief innovation officer for almost two years, as its new CEO.

Dan Simpson, Taziki’s new CEO, came to the company almost two years ago as chief innovation officer. (Taziki’s)
Simpson will work closely with Taziki’s founder Keith Richards, who two decades ago put up his house as collateral to build the first Taziki’s near U.S. 280 in Birmingham. The company now has locations in 16 states, and last month opened its 83rd restaurant in West Chester, Ohio. Plans are to have 100 locations open by 2019.
“Keith’s vision for his restaurant is an inspiration to so many. He has created an environment that combines extraordinary food with meaningful human experience,” Simpson said. “He has led the charge to offer fresh, healthy, diverse and affordable food options to the tables of tens of thousands of people for the past 20 years.”
Richards manages the flagship market of Birmingham and will continue to lead Taziki’s culinary research and development program and the HOPE program, which is the company’s charity.
Richards began the HOPE program when he decided to connect Taziki’s to a community need. It began with hiring special-needs adults and teens at his Birmingham-area restaurants, and led to the development of HOPE, or “Herbs Offering Personal Enrichment.” With HOPE, students are hired and taught to plant and cultivate herbs – parsley, oregano, cilantro, basil and rosemary – which are harvested and delivered for use in Taziki’s restaurants.

Simpson and Richards will continue to work with Taziki’s board and staff to clarify the purpose, mission and brand values to guide the company’s next 20 years.
“Dan is working closely with me to carry out my vision for the next 20 years of Taziki’s,” Richards said. “His passion for working to create the new ‘Mediterranean-Coastal’ design for our restaurants has been an integral part of this process.”
The new design for the restaurants includes community tables to create a welcoming environment for conversation, exposed wooden beams in the ceiling, stone and white shiplap-adorned walls, and white and deep blue interior accent pieces. A community board at the back of the restaurants lists local nonprofit events with information about how to participate.
Before joining Taziki’s, Simpson founded and was CEO of ToGo Technologies. Over the past five years, Taziki’s has experienced an increase of more than 60 percent in online and to-go orders.
“Expanding Taziki’s technology capabilities for our customers, including our app offerings, accessibility to ordering online, as well as a new website is a big focus for our team,” Simpson said. “We are working to anticipate consumer trends and seeking innovations that enhance guest experiences.”
Later this year, the company will launch TazRewards, a loyalty program that in-line and online customers can access on the app.

CHILLICOTHE, OH – PRNewswire

Petland Inc., the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), the Ohio Professional Dog Breeders Association, the Ohio Department of Agriculture and the American Kennel Club (AKC) recently hosted the sixth annual Dog Breeder Symposium in Walnut Creek, Ohio. More than 200 professional and hobby breeders from three states were in attendance.

“Petland is proud to be a partner in supporting this annual educational conference. This is a special collaborative effort between federal and state agencies and the pet industry to promote and implement processes to improve the life and welfare of pets,” said Petland President and CEO Joe Watson. “Breeders from around the state have a unique opportunity to hear firsthand about improvements and standards of care.”

The Symposium series is unique in that the five groups work together to produce an annual breeder education event geared towards the continual improvement of dog-breeding standards.

“We find that bringing groups together is highly productive and beneficial,” said Petland’s Vice President of Animal Welfare Brian Winslow. “Petland works closely with the USDA and all of our conference partners as each group brings a unique set of skills and expertise to the meeting.”

This year’s symposium was held March 27 and focused on enrichment activities for dogs, and how to train dogs in a kennel environment. Speakers included representatives from Petland, AKC, the Ohio Professional Dog Breeders’ Association as well as veterinarians. Previous symposiums have addressed the importance of socialization programs for breeding parents and their offspring, improved kennel design and genetic testing.

CANTON, MA – To bring customers more options to enjoy two great breakfast sandwiches at one great price, Dunkin’ Donuts launched Dunkin’ Go2s, the brand’s new national value menu. Available beginning today at participating Dunkin’ Donuts restaurants nationwide, the Dunkin’ Go2s menu allows guests to choose from among three of the brand’s most popular breakfast sandwiches, and purchase two of their go-to favorite at $2, $3 or $5 price points.

Available all day long, Dunkin’ Go2s include*:

• Two Egg & Cheese Wake-up Wraps® for only $2
• Two Egg & Cheese Breakfast Sandwiches served on English Muffins for only $3
• Two Egg, Cheese & Bacon Breakfast Sandwiches served on Croissants for only $5

According to Tony Weisman, Chief Marketing Officer, Dunkin’ Donuts U.S., “Dunkin’ Donuts is committed to offering our guests quality products at compelling prices, and we are excited to introduce a new national value menu. Dunkin’ Go2s is focused on delivering more choices and great value for our most popular go-to breakfast sandwiches. Now guests can enjoy not one but two of their favorite breakfast sandwiches priced at $2, $3 or $5.”

Calling All Go-Getters

For the launch of Dunkin’ Go2s, Dunkin’ Donuts is celebrating “go-getters” across America. Beginning April 9, and throughout April the brand will host the new “Go-getters Go2 Dunkin’” contest, giving fans the chance to win by sharing how they work hard to succeed each day. Each week fans will be asked to nominate themselves as the ultimate go-getter– such as the office go-getter, go-getter with a side hustle, a go-getter in the community, etc. — on Instagram using #GoGetter and #contest. Dunkin’ Donuts will select three go-getters to receive a customized trophy in honor of his or her drive and ambition to succeed, along with a gift card to share a Go2 breakfast sandwich with their friends/loved ones. No purchase necessary, 18+, U.S. residents only. Ends April 30, 2018. Official rules will be available at www.DDGoGetters.com.

Cold Brew Tasting Event

Dunkin’ Go2s pair perfectly with the brand’s coffee beverages, including hot or iced coffees, lattes, macchiatos, frozen coffee and Cold Brew coffee. On Friday, April 6, Dunkin’ Donuts is giving guests a great opportunity to try a taste of its rich, smooth Cold Brew coffee as part of a special nationwide Cold Brew tasting event.

Dunkin’ Donuts will offer a complimentary sample (3.5-ounce) from 10 AM to 2 PM at participating Dunkin’ Donuts restaurants nationwide, while supplies last. Dunkin’ Donuts Cold Brew coffee is crafted by hand in small batches, prepared by steeping a special blend of coffee in cold water for 12 hours. This longer process extracts a uniquely distinctive, inherently sweeter flavor from the beans reminiscent of dark chocolate.

To learn more about Dunkin’ Donuts, visit www.DunkinDonuts.com, or subscribe to the Dunkin’ Donuts blog to receive notifications at https://news.dunkindonuts.com/blog.

* Single sandwich sold at regular price. No substitutions. For a limited time at participating locations.

CLEVELAND, OH – PRNewswire

Americans are more stressed out about the future of our nation and the ongoing political divide according to a Harris Poll survey conducted late last year for the American Psychological Association.  In fact, political turmoil is now the top source of stress ahead of concerns about money and work.  The good news is that April is Stress Awareness Month, and HealthSource, America’s largest group of clinics specializing in holistic healthcare, will be offering free massages and consultation on ways to prevent stress from causing chronic pain.

More than 60,000 Relax-O-Gram cards will be handed out in April by participating HealthSource clinics, offering recipients free massages.  HealthSource clinics will also be conducting free massages out in the community to teachers, social workers and first responders (police, fire, EMS, active military and veterans).  In addition to the free massages, the clinics will feature a special Pain & Stress Relief Package for just $49, which includes a massage, chiropractic evaluation and bottle of Relax, a dietary supplement that promotes relaxation and normal sleep.

Stress Awareness Month has been celebrated every year in April since being established in 1992.  The goal is to educate Americans on the impact stress can have on the body while offering ways to reduce stress before it leads to chronic pain.  According to the American Institute of Stress, approximately 90 percent of all doctor visits are attributable to stress, including conditions ranging from back and neck pain, stomach disorders and heart disease.  Job related stress costs American businesses more than $150 billion a year in lost productivity.

“Stress is a relationship between your brain and your body,” said Dr. Chris Tomshack, CEO and founder of HealthSource. “Left unchecked the stress your brain is communicating to your body can cause physical harm.  Diet, stretching, massages, exercise, yoga and relaxation techniques can help you manage stress.  If you experience chronic back or neck pain as a result of stress, it’s important to schedule an appointment with a chiropractor.”

Papa Murphy’s Holdings Inc. has named Nik Rupp chief financial officer, effective April 9.

Rupp replaces Mark Hutchens, who will retain his role as the take-and-bake pizza chain’s chief operating officer, the company said on Tuesday.

Rupp most recently served as CFO of Specialized Bicycle Components. Earlier, he held several positions at Nike.

“I am very pleased to welcome Nik to Papa Murphy’s,” said Weldon Spangler, CEO of the Vancouver, Wash.-based operator, in a statement. “His financial leadership and strategic planning expertise will add significant value to our entire team as we continue to execute our long-term initiatives and build brand momentum. We are also fortunate to have Mark’s breadth of financial acumen and experience dedicated to our franchise owners’ profitability moving forward in his role as chief operating officer.”

Rupp said he looked forward to joining Papa Murphy’s.

“I have admired the company for its unique and high-quality product, and I look forward to working with the team to help drive growth in the business and deliver long-term value for shareholders,” he said in a statement.

The announcement of Rupp’s appointment came a month after the appointment of Laura Szeliga as chief marketing officer.

In the fourth quarter ended Jan. 1, Papa Murphy’s net income was $13.5 million, an increase from $1.5 million the previous year. Revenue declined to $30.7 million, compared with $35.5 million the previous year. Domestic same-store sales fell 2.6 percent.

Papa Murphy’s has more than 1,500 locations in the U.S., Canada and United Arab Emirates.

WEST PALM BEACH, FL– 24-7 PressRelease

United Franchise Group (UFG), The Global Leader for Entrepreneurs with more than 1400 locations in 80 countries, has added to its impressive network of franchises with the announcement of a partnership with Nick Anthony Della Penna and Trent Jones, co-founders of The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill restaurant chain.

Della Penna, a third-generation restaurateur, has 21 years of experience in the hospitality industry, including the role of vice president of Food and Beverage at the Excalibur® Hotel and Casino, while Jones has many years of experiences as a real estate and small business entrepreneur. Together, they purchased the first The Great Greek in Henderson, NV in 2011. During their first year of operation, gross revenue rose by 18 percent. The 12-month 2017 revenue was $1,536,137*. Based on that success, Della Penna and Jones opened a second restaurant in the southwest area of Las Vegas in 2017.

“With minimal advertising, it became an instant hit, commented Jones. Through the fourth quarter of last year, daily sales were on track to exceed the original location by 28 percent, with the average monthly revenue of the two locations in 2017 at $143,690*.”

In 2018, a lease was signed to open a third restaurant in Las Vegas, and a Letter of Intent has been accepted for a lease to open a The Great Greek showcase location in Palm Beach Gardens, FL in the summer.

The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill is the second fast-casual food option in UFG’s expansive network. It joins Jon Smith Subs(JSS), which has 21 locations either open or under construction throughout the United States, with several locations also already sold globally.

“The incremental growth of JSS is a true indicator of our success in the food sector, so it was only natural to add another top-level, award-winning food brand,” said Ray Titus, Chief Executive Officer of UFG. “I recognize the popularity of Mediterranean food, and after visiting one of The Great Greek locations, I instantly knew that it would be a success as our next franchise.”

According to the founders of The Great Greek, the success is attributed to three factors: The highest quality ingredients, fresh products are prepared every day, and every team member is devoted to providing outstanding hospitality. ”

“The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill is an award-winning fast-casual dining option with a very bright future,” said Titus. “It is a pleasure to welcome them to the United Franchise Group family.”

VIRGINIA BEACH, VA – GLOBE NEWSWIRE

Participating Liberty Tax Service offices will prepare 2017 federal 1040 tax returns for free through April 5, for Toys “R” Us and Babies “R” Us employees who may lose their jobs as Toys “R” Us reportedly plans to close more than 700 U.S. locations.

“It is unfortunate that Toys “R” Us must close its doors, and even more unfortunate that an estimated 30,000 U.S. workers may lose their jobs,” said CEO Nicole Ossenfort. “Our goal in offering free professional tax preparation is to take away the stress of doing taxes for Toys “R” Us employees. We can also talk about tax planning and help Toys “R” Us workers prepare for and understand tax implications of other sources of income they may earn in 2018.”

Job loss can bring issues and opportunity. Liberty Tax can help workers realize the tax issues that arise when a job is lost. These may include accumulated sick and vacation pay, severance pay and unemployment compensation, all of which are taxable. Liberty Tax can also address the opportunity and answer tax questions for those who may consider starting their own business or working for themselves in the gig economy. A handy Liberty Tax guide, 11 Tax Questions Every Gig Worker Should Ask, is a great start to helping workers sort through the tax implications of such work.

Liberty Tax knows that store closings can have a deep impact on local communities and businesses. Many Liberty Tax offices are located in communities that will experience these losses, and our local business owners are ready to offer the support they can – with tax advice and information – to their neighbors and fellow business owners.

MADISON, N.J., March 20, 2018 /PRNewswire/ — Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC today announced the launch of Curate by Sotheby’s International Realty^(sm), a mobile augmented reality (AR) app that will bring a home’s virtual staging images from 2-D perception into augmented reality; the app was built with ARCore, Google’s AR Software platform, and is powered by roOomy, the leading virtual staging technology platform specializing in 3D/AR/VR content creation and application development.  Curate by Sotheby’s International Realty allows consumers to visualize a house as their own before purchase, thereby curating the homebuying experience. Working closely with Google in the run up to ARCore’s release, the Sotheby’s International Realty® brand is the first real estate brand to launch and implement a virtual staging AR app, transforming the homebuying and selling experience for sales associates and consumers.

Curate by Sotheby’s International Realty is taking virtually staged images from a flat, 2-D screen into the house itself through the power of AR.  The app also features a curated selection of AR interior designs, ranging from modern living rooms to traditional dining rooms that provides the consumer with the opportunity to immediately swap among these styles, something physical staging could never accomplish.

For video and images of the app in use, as well as quotes, click here.  If you have one of Google’s ARCore-enabled mobile devices, download the app here.

Curate by Sotheby’s International Realty app features:

• Visualization – Any property can be transformed through a curated selection of AR furnishings and décor sets. Listing-specific staging options will be available in the near future.
• Recollection – The app has screenshot capabilities, allowing viewers to capture and store the images of AR furniture sets placed within the visit.
• Shop – Virtual home furnishings can be clicked for more information about the product, including a link to exit the app and be directed to a retailer’s website. All furniture is shown to-scale and provides accurate room dimensions, ensuring furniture viewed in the app will be a fit, making purchasing and moving into a new home easier on new home buyers.

Curate by Sotheby’s International Realty app benefits:
Research has shown that an AR experience allows consumers to form more accurate expectations, therefore increasing confidence in purchasing decisions and shortening the sales cycle.¹

• For prospective homebuyers – Viewing a potential house in AR breaks down visualization barriers that often accompany the homebuying process, allowing prospective homebuyers the unique ability to envision the house in their personal taste and style. Curate by Sotheby’s International Realty offers the opportunity for buyers to ultimately see a house as their own home, increasing confidence in any purchasing decisions.
• For home sellers / Sotheby’s International Realty clients – Selling a home with a Sotheby’s International Realty sales associate means tapping into the power of AR to sell the home by helping prospective buyers overcome the visualization barriers of touring an empty home or one decorated in style that differs from their taste.
• For the Sotheby’s International Realty sales associate – The benefits for the sales associate are similar to those of the homebuyer and seller; Curate by Sotheby’s International Realty empowers the sales associate to present a home in an objective and neutral manner. The app also alleviates the need for sales associates to physically stage homes, allowing them to save money on the costs of either renting or buying and storing furniture.

Curate by Sotheby’s International Realty is available now for download in the Google Play Store.  The app was built with Google’s ARCore, which can run on 100 million Android devices worldwide.  The Sotheby’s International Realty brand will launch Curate by Sotheby’s International Realty for iOS this spring through a continued partnership with roOomy.

The Sotheby’s International Realty network currently has nearly 22,000 affiliated independent sales associates located in 950 offices in 69 countries and territories worldwide.  Sotheby’s International Realty listings are marketed on the sothebysrealty.com global website.  In addition to the referral opportunities and widened exposure generated from this source, each brokerage firm and its clients benefit from an association with the Sotheby’s auction house and worldwide Sotheby’s International Realty marketing programs.