The parent of Buffalo Wild Wings, Arby’s, Jimmy John’s and Sonic Drive-In has appointed Brendan Mauri president of its smallest brand, Rusty Taco.
Mauri moves up to the post from senior director of marketing for the 30-unit fast-casual chain, which owner Inspire Brands acquired through Arby’s purchase of Buffalo Wild Wings in 2017. The three operations—Arby’s, Buffalo Wild Wings and what was then known as R Taco—merged to form Inspire, today one of the industry’s major franchisors.
Previously, Mauri served as senior director of marketing for Main Event, a big-box food and games concept, and as director of marketing for Brinker International’s Chili’s Grill & Bar. He also spent time in the marketing departments of Applebee’s, according to Inspire.
“His strong industry background and marketing expertise will be instrumental in driving innovation and long-term success as the brand embarks on its next chapter of growth,” Inspire Chief Growth Officer Christian Charnaux said in a news announcement posted on the company’s website. Mauri will report to Charnaux.
Brendan Mauri
Rusty Taco competes in an emerging market segment composed of small, young brands promising higher quality Tex-Mex fare than what’s available from the big quick-service Mexican chains such as Taco Bell and Del Taco. Its competitors include Fuzzy’s Taco Shop, Torchy’s Tacos, Velvet Taco and Pink Taco.
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