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Introductions

Written by: Jack Burris August 9th, 2006
          0 votes

Hello StartupNation, Dennis Hitzeman here - I’m excited to kick off the StartupNation franchise blog, and look forward to helping others interested in the fast-paced world of franchising.

By way of introductions, I’m the president and CEO of Pride Restaurant Group, located in Scottsdale, Arizona. We currently own and operate 55 Burger King restaurants and 8 Fazioli’s Italian restaurants in Phoenix, Las Vegas, Atlanta and Dallas. I’ve also had the chance to own or be involed with eight other franchised restaurant concepts, from TGI Fridays to Le Peep.

Throughout my career in franchising, I’ve had the opportunity to work with and learn lessons from many of America’s greatest leaders, and I am looking forward to imparting those lessons to the StartupNation.

Posted in Franchise Business
Next: Franchising for winners

Comments

  1. Julie     Says:
    August 23rd, 2006 at 1:21 pm

    I see in the AZ Republic today(8-23-06) that you will be involved in the Panera Bread franchise. Please put one in S. Tempe or W. Chandler. WE LOVE PANERA, and miss them since moving to AZ from the midwest. I see a building now in progress for sale at Kyrene and Warner that would be a great location. Hope you will located near me!!

  2. Mark Savel     Says:
    September 23rd, 2006 at 8:38 pm

    I would love to get involved in your franchise blog. Please see my url and email me at the above address. I have been involved in every aspect of franchising sinse 1979. I live in Scottsdale, as well.

    I look forward to hearing from you.

    Mark Savel
    480-888-6166

  3. Nilesh     Says:
    September 28th, 2006 at 1:00 am

    I am currently a franchisee of a pizza franchise. I am currently in the market to sell my store. I am location in chadler arizona. I was just wondering if selling a franchise is something you can help with.
    Also, would it be easier to sell to a person looking to open an independent restaurant or to one who wants to keep the francise name. Any help on this matter would greatly be appreciated

    Thanks
    Nilesh

  4. Neil Thorley     Says:
    October 24th, 2006 at 7:58 pm

    Hi Dennis,
    I was wondering who finds your Panera restaurant locations for you in the Phoenix area?
    Thank-you,
    Neil

  5. Terri     Says:
    November 2nd, 2006 at 8:36 am

    Hi Dennis,

    Are you lining up your management crew for the Arizona Panera Bread locations yet? There is a ‘Panera Planet Bread facilitator’ that lives in the area.

    Thanks!
    Terri
    480-855-5053