Veteran restaurant marketing executive Michael Branigan has joined artisan frozen treat chain Bruster's Real Ice Cream as vice president of marketing and product innovation.
Founded in 1989, Bruster's has more than 200 locations in 18 states, serving ice cream, waffle cones, shakes, cakes, and pies that are made fresh on site each day.
Branigan previously served as vice president of marketing at Sizzler USA, where he was credited with helping to lead the venerable steakhouse's post-bankruptcy turnaround. His marketing tenure also includes bd's Mongolian Grill, Damon's Grill, Hooters of America, American Restaurant Group, and Carl's Jr.
Branigan is playing a key role in devising a brand relaunch strategy that will be introduced in May, says Bruster's CEO Jim Sahene.
"Mike's experience helping to shape and grow a variety of successful restaurant concepts, combined with his endless energy and passion, make him a great choice to lead our revitalization efforts," Sahene says.
Bruster's strong franchise community and products Branigan describes as "simply amazing" attracted him to the brand.
"This is a rare opportunity to help a really great, small company grow into a true industry powerhouse," he says. "I am on a mission to bring Bruster's unique frozen treats to more neighborhoods here in the U.S. and overseas."
