Staffing

A&W names VP of franchise development, design

Photo: A&W Restaurants

January 21, 2025

A&W Restaurants has named Meredeth Jones as the brand's VP of franchise development and design, according to a press release.

Jones has more than 15 years of experience in franchising and will play a pivotal role in advancing the growth and expansion of the 105-year-old brand.

"When growing our A&W family, we look for people who love and know our brand, are passionate about franchising and dedicated to supporting our franchisees' success, and for us, that person is Meredeth," Kevin Bazner, CEO of A&W Restaurants, said in the release. "As the food-service industry continues to evolve, entrepreneurial opportunities flourish and untapped markets expand, we are confident that she will take advantage of these shifts to positively impact our company, our franchisees and our partners."

Jones served in franchise development leadership for notable brands such as Caribou Coffee, Inspire Brands and TheCoderSchool, where she played a key role in transforming and expanding the business. In 2010, she founded two chicks consulting — a franchise consulting company supporting franchisor growth for emerging brands. As vice president of franchise development and design at A&W Restaurants, Jones will channel her expertise into driving national expansion, enhancing brand awareness, strengthening franchisor and franchisee relationships and attracting new entrepreneurial talent.