With demand for healthier fast food increasing among consumers nationwide, UFood Restaurant Group Inc. announced that it has retained Jeff Bonasia to assist in developing marketing programs to identify, attract, and secure potential franchisees. The company seeks franchisees that have a track record of success operating multiple foodservice franchise locations for mature brands and are seeking to become a part of a healthy quick-service concept to capitalize on this growing trend.
"Mr. Bonasia has extensive experience in developing marketing and communication programs to attract food service operators capable of operating multiple franchise locations," says Charlie Cocotas, COO of UFood Grill. "His depth of experience in the quick-service restaurant industry will allow him to contribute to the successful growth of UFood Grill as it expands in traditional markets in combination with the success it is achieving in establishing locations in major airports across the country."
As senior vice president with Hill Holliday, Bonasia oversaw the nationwide franchise expansion of Dunkin' Donuts business under the tagline "America Runs on Dunkin" and managed McDonald's efforts while at Havas' Arnold Worldwide. Previously, Bonasia spent 12 years at Burger King Corporation serving as senior director of advertising, brand image and retailing and product marketing, spearheading initiatives that included the development of a new brand logo and award-winning advertising; new retail designs, menuboard systems, packaging, and uniforms; the development of Burger King's Angus Burger and new kids' products; and the introduction of interactive educational computer game systems for kids that were introduced in all company-owned restaurants.