Fazoli’s recently held its 2019 National Brand Conference in Marco Island, Florida where it awarded its brand trailblazers for driving success.

“Our National Brand Conference really ignites excitement around our newest brand strategies while celebrating the big wins of the year,” says President and CEO Carl Howard. “I take great pride in honoring the people who work so diligently to make Fazoli’s a leader in the industry.”

On Tuesday, September 10 at the President’s Awards Ceremony, the brand honored Michigan Franchisee Terry Chepy of Chepy, LLC as Franchisee of the Year for remarkable sales growth, consistent commitment to the brand and his unwavering dedication and support toward his team.

“This year marks Terry’s fourth straight year of positive sales growth,” says Howard. “He and his team achieved a 3.3% sales increase and an increase of 2.4% in guest counts. He is committed to driving his off-premise sales, and his results are unprecedented – increasing drive-thru sales by 5.9 percent and catering by 11percent. He epitomizes our commitment to excellence, and we’re proud to have this opportunity to recognize him and award him with this prestigious honor.”

Jim Hillock, general manager of Fazoli’s in Lansing, Michigan and member of Chepy’s team, was named Franchisee General Manager of the Year – an award given to a franchise general manager who is consistently at the top of Fazoli’s Franchise Balanced Scorecard, which is a ranking for the categories of people, sales, and profits. Hillock earned a score of 4.9 out of 5.0, making him the front-runner for the award.

“Sales at Fazoli’s in Lansing were up an impressive 8.2 percent and guest counts were positive at 6.5 percent,” says Howard. “While their results are unrivaled, the achievement is even more inspiring because it’s the third time Jim has won this award during his career with Fazoli’s.”

The award for company general manager of the year went to Ryan McClure, of Owensboro, Kentucky for the impact he’s made to the organization and his community by embodying the brand’s commitment to excellence. Known as “Mr. Fazoli’s” in his community, McClure epitomizes leadership and fosters a positive culture within his team. 

Fazoli’s also honored their vendor partners. Chosen from over 85 suppliers and partners who work with the brand, Steven Goldstein and Zerega Pasta, won Supplier of the Year. This award is given to the organization that is more than just a partner to Fazoli’s – it is a part of the Fazoli’s team and family.

“Fazoli’s is a family that rises together,” says Howard. “Our brand continues to gain momentum with record-breaking sales and traffic and an exciting menu and value proposition that just can’t be beat – we are excited for the opportunity to honor our successful franchisees, celebrate our loyal vendor partnerships and show our gratitude and appreciation to everyone on the team who help us make it happen.”

Founded in 1988 in Lexington, Kentucky, Fazoli’s owns and operates nearly 220 restuarants in 28 states.