Sbarro Taps Franchise Development V.P.s

In the midst of an aggressive revitalization effort for its mall-based Italian eateries, Sbarro has appointed two executives to spearhead franchise growth domestically and abroad.

Eric Taylor has joined Sbarro’s as v.p.-international franchise development. He’s worked in the international franchise world since 1999, including a post as v.p.-worldwide franchise development for Bennigan’s Franchising Co., and as a consultant for TR Global Management Group representing Applebee’s.

Dave Gleason, newly named v.p.-franchise development, will lead the growth of franchisees in North America. He has more than 30 years of experience in the quick-service industry in both an operations and franchise development capacity.

The Melville, N.Y., chain, which has more than 1,000 restaurants in 40 countries, will add 60 new domestic and international stores this year and introduce a new prototype restaurant model in early 2013.