Dunkin CBO takes over Friendly Ice Cream
January 8, 2007
WILBRAHAM, Mass. — Friendly Ice Cream Corp. has appointed George M. Condos as president and chief executive and member of its board, effective immediately.
Condos, 51, brings 30 years of experience in the restaurant and hospitality industry, including his most recent position as brand officer for Dunkin Donuts. Dunkin Donuts is owned by Dunkin Brands which also owns Baskin Robbins ice cream and TOGOS sandwich shops. According to a news release, Condos was directly responsible for leading brand strategy and execution for more than 4,850 franchised stores in the United States generating $4.3 billion in sales.
"Over the past few months, we conducted an extensive, national CEO search and interviewed a number of well-qualified candidates. We are very excited to have attracted George Condos, a seasoned and accomplished executive with significant experience in the restaurant and ice cream industry, and we welcome his leadership at this important time in our company's history," said Donald N. Smith, chairman of the board. "His efforts in the development and marketing of over 2,000 Dunkin stores in the Northeast have resulted in making Dunkin Donuts a powerful brand."
After starting his career in operations for International Dairy Queen, Condos joined Allied Domecq QSR, the parent company of Dunkin Brands, in 1987, serving in various roles for U.S. and international operations until being named brand officer in 2003 and served in that capacity until 2006.
"After a long career in building high-profile brands, seeking opportunities in existing and new markets, and driving a culture of customer service, it is a great privilege to join a company like Friendly's with such a storied history and rich foundation," Condos said. "I look forward to the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead and, as a native of New England, believe I can make significant contributions to a company I know well and respect highly."
