Beef 'O' Brady's Names Gene Savage Director Of Franchise Sales, Development

Casual-dining sports bar Beef 'O' Brady's has named Gene Savage its next director of franchise sales and development, the company said Monday.

The appointment comes at a time when the 213-unit chain is looking to expand beyond the 22 states where it already operates.

"As an outsider looking in, I've always admired Beef 'O' Brady's for creating a restaurant concept that's universally appealing to both restaurant-goers and franchise prospects," Savage said in a statement.

Savage has more than 30 years experience working in franchise development, including positions at such chains as Dunkin' Donuts, Baskin-Robbins, Maggie Moo's and Baja Fresh.

The company said Savage was hired to help break into unexplored channels, such as colleges and airports, as well in new states, including Wisconsin, New York, Virginia and Connecticut. It also said it hoped to open locations abroad in the coming year.

Beef 'O' Brady's, which is based in Tampa, Fla., opened its first restaurant west of the Rockies in Meridian, Idaho, in 2011. It also signed franchise agreements in California and Arizona this year.

Beef 'O' Brady's opened around 10 restaurants in 2011 and executives project more than 25 openings in 2012.

Contact Bret Thorn at bret.thorn@penton.com.
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