The premier fondue franchise is building on its 50th anniversary with expanded leadership roles, new development deals and a continued focus on brand evolution.
TAMPA, Fla., July 1, 2025 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- As Melting Pot continues to celebrate its 50th year as the premier fondue dining experience, the brand is carrying its momentum into the second half of 2025 with the appointment of a new CEO, several internal leadership promotions and new franchise agreements in key markets.
John "JC" Crawford has been named CEO of Melting Pot after serving as executive vice president of operations. He succeeds longtime CEO and founder Bob Johnston, who now serves solely as chairman of the board. Johnston remains an owner and continues to support the brand's long-term growth and strategic direction.
"This is a brand that has been a part of people's lives for five decades, and I'm honored to help lead it into its next chapter," Crawford said. "We have a talented leadership team, incredible franchise partners and a guest experience that's unlike anything else in the industry. As we look ahead, we're focused on operational excellence, innovative growth strategies and ensuring every guest enjoys the perfect night out."
Crawford joined Melting Pot in March 2020, bringing operational leadership experience from brands including Ruth's Chris Steak House and Bennigan's. His work in franchise support and brand transformation has helped strengthen Melting Pot's system and position it for continued growth.
"We're building on our legacy with fresh momentum," Crawford said. "Even though Melting Pot has been delivering unforgettable dining experiences for 50 years, we're actively evolving — from restaurant design to training, technology and operations. This next phase of growth is about honoring what makes the brand special while building for the future."
As part of its continued investment in leadership, Melting Pot also announced a series of internal promotions and title changes across its executive team.
Randy Barnett was promoted from vice president of technology to chief technology officer.
Mike Mobley was promoted from vice president of people to chief talent officer.
Matt Zurcher was promoted from director to vice president of franchise and restaurant operations and added to the leadership team.
Dan Stone's title changed from chief operating and development officer to chief business officer.
Ana Malmqvist's title changed from chief marketing officer to chief brand officer.
Scott Pierce, chief financial officer, remains a member of the leadership team.
"These changes reflect the strength and depth of our internal talent," Crawford said. "We're building a best in class leadership structure that will support franchisees, team members and guests for decades to come."
Melting Pot also signed two new franchise agreements in the first half of 2025. The brand will open in North Dallas, Texas, with new franchisees Dan and Tracie Greene, and in Syracuse, New York, with an existing franchisee group leading development.
The signings follow the launch of Melting Pot's 50th anniversary celebration in April, which featured limited-time menu offerings such as the Grand Reserve Cheese Fondue and renewed emphasis on the brand's core identity as the destination for the Perfect Night Out®.
Melting Pot also continues its decades-long commitment to community involvement through its partnership with St. Jude Children's Research
Hospital. The brand's Thanks and Giving campaign has raised over $18 million dollars for the charity over the past 20 years.
To fuel continued expansion, Melting Pot will launch a new franchise incentive program on July 1. As part of its 50th anniversary celebration, the brand is offering a Golden Anniversary Incentive: the first five new-construction franchise agreements signed beginning July 1, 2025, will receive 50% off the Initial Franchise Fee — a savings of $22,500. This special offer is available through March 31, 2026, or until five qualifying agreements are signed, whichever comes first. The incentive applies exclusively to new builds and cannot be combined with other programs, such as the IFA's VetFran or DiversityFran initiatives.
As Melting Pot continues its momentum, the brand is seeking franchisees ready to build on its 50-year legacy, with a special focus on strategic growth in key markets such as Texas, Florida, Michigan, California, and Tennessee.
To learn more about franchising with Melting Pot, visit: http://www.meltingpotfranchise.com.
About Melting Pot
Founded in 1975, Melting Pot has offered a unique fondue dining experience for more than 50 years. As the premier fondue restaurant franchise, Melting Pot has 92 restaurants in 31 U.S. states and Canada. Known for offering a variety of fondue cooking styles and unique entrées, Melting Pot's menu also features cheese fondues, salads, fine wines, spirits and chocolate fondue desserts. Fondue fans can join Melting Pot's Club Fondue for exclusive promotions, special events and advance holiday reservation privileges. Melting Pot is an affiliate of The Melting Pot Inc. (TMPRI), a restaurant management company headquartered in Tampa, Florida. For more information, visit http://www.meltingpot.com. To learn more about franchise opportunities with Melting Pot, please visit http://www.meltingpotfranchise.com.
Media Contact
Julie Maw, Mainland, 3125263996, [email protected], www.hellomainland.com
SOURCE Melting Pot
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