Dallas-based Brix Holdings LLC, which owns Friendly’s Restaurant Co., Red Mango, Orange Leaf, Smoothie Factory + Kitchen, SouperSalad and Pizza Jukebox, has hired Luke Mandola Jr. as VP of franchise sales and development.
“I’ve been an admirer of Brix Holdings from afar for quite some time, so obviously I’m excited to now be a part of this powerhouse,” Mandola said in a company press release. “Whether at the office in Dallas or being a road warrior when visiting our stores and franchisees, being in the thick of a brand’s development process is something I’m so passionate about and I feel like that passion can really flourish here.”
Having joined Brix in late June, Mandola’s first big project will be overseeing the early stages of Friendly’s 2.0 prototype store and growth plan, which includes adding locations and franchise partners in the coming months.
Most recently, Mandola worked for Shipley’s Do-Nuts where he opened over 100 locations across 11 states, including market entry in five states, developed the brand’s design and construction manual with an architectural firm, established a franchise incentive plan, sold and transferred 20 shops and signed over 330 commitments through 2029.
“We have obviously placed growth as one of our key strategic priorities going forward, so bringing on Luke to spearhead that makes this feel like a home run hire,” Brix Holdings CEO Sherif Mityas said in the release. “With his experience and track record of success, we’re excited to see him help lead our new franchise sales growth and the development of new locations as we look to achieve our lofty targets in what is sure to be a bright future.”
Brix has over 300 locations across 38 states.
