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Kono USA appoints new VP

Kono USA has appointed Steven Henry as vice president.

February 15, 2016

Kono USA has appointed Steven Henry as vice president. The company offers meals and snacks served in freshly baked dough cones at "The Original" Kono Pizza and Kono To-Go, Fresh Eats, Treats & Sweets locations, according to a company press release.

With a passion and history of helping turn emerging franchise brands into major players in their segments, Henry brings more than 32 years of experience in operations, franchise development and brand awareness. He's worked for Dickey's Barbecue, Sbarro Italian Eateries, Raving Brands and Moe's Southwest Grill.

"This concept has tremendous potential for growth and success across the country," Henry said. "The idea of fresh breakfast, deli, pizza and dessert items served in delicious dough cones that are convenient to eat on-the-go fills a unique need in the marketplace. The combination of a strong concept that's been proven in Europe and the passion and drive of the Kono USA co-founders makes for a bright future. It's exciting to be a part of it."

Both "The Original" Kono Pizza and Kono-To-Go franchises offer the same variety of products, including breakfast, deli, pizza and dessert items, all served in freshly-baked dough cones. Items are prepared using ingredients inspired by original Italian recipes and baked in three minutes in the brand's proprietary oven.

The announcement of Henry's addition to the management team comes on the heels of recent franchise growth that includes new multi-unit franchise agreements signed in Dallas, Atlanta, Charlotte, and Philadelphia, the release stated. Henry's role will include refining operating systems, site selection and franchisee support as the brand continues to expand, with a projection of adding more than 50 unit signings and reaching double-digits openings in 2016.

"He brings decades of experience in franchising, specifically within the food segment, to the Kono USA team," said Carlo Ruggiero, co-founder of Kono USA. "His vast capabilities will be extremely beneficial as we enter the next stage of our strategic development."

Henry will continue to reside in the Atlanta area with his family, where he is a member of the 12Stone Church and serves on the boards of various organizations, including the Mountain View Athletic Association and the CEO Advisory Board.

David Ragosa, co-founder of Kono USA, added, "Steve's experience in working with multiple brands in different stages of growth makes him an ideal fit for us now and moving forward. His expertise and professionalism will help take us to the next level as we expand into additional markets and bring on new franchisees around the country."