Wendy's scoops up a new CEO
Karin Hattingh to lead the company through its next phase of growth.
Supatreats Australia, the Franchisor of Wendy’s, has recently appointed Hattingh has Chief Executive Officer. Previously a finance executive at Gloria Jean’s Coffee and Barbeques Galore, she brings depth of knowledge on franchise arrangements, and is keen to work with Wendy’s franchisees throughout Australia to grow and strengthen the brand.
She told QSR Media that being involved in Barbeques Galore and Gloria Jeans has prepared her for her newfound role. "[Being involved with these brands], it helped me understand what happens when you get it right and when you get it wrong. And I'm planning to get it right," she said.
“My experience in franchising has given me a strong insight into what is needed to make a winning partnership, I would like to first establish these relationships and then build on them." She shared that franchise partners who take ownership and are accountable will drive success for themselves and for the brand.
Hattingh is focused on the future, she noted, and will work towards the vision of making Wendy's a destination of choice for treats. "There is a lot of work to do and we can't agonize about the past... My plan is to listen and take feedback on board, as I consider this important in building the business strategy."
She noted that the team is currently working through strategies to more than double the existing 155 stores in New Zealand and Australia in the next five years, pointing out that strengthening the Wendy’s brand even further would be her first priority. In fact, a variety of initiatives are planned in the coming months to ensure strong growth and a positive experience for customers.
“It’s been a very busy 12 months for the brand, and it is important we now stabilise and move forward together. The head office in Sydney gives us a good geographical location, some new faces on the team and a real focus on what we need to do to ensure Wendy’s stay strong for another 36 years,” Hattingh said. “We have some exciting plans heading into the summer months, with new products and fresh new branding on the way, so it is a great time to come in and get my feet under the desk.”
"There's a lot of upcoming exciting initiatives that we can’t share with media at this stage. We're looking forward to revealing them to customers and every time must be a memorable occasion for all the right reasons," hinting, "it will be something fresh, like something to make customers feel like they have indulged but in a good way."
Other brands she mentioned that are doing well in terms of branding include Sumo Salad and McDonalds, noting they are appealing, quick to react and responsive to market changes.
"Come in for a treat [at Wendy's] and keep a close eye," she noted.
