Johnny Rockets appoints store development executive

Lake Forest, Calif. Johnny Rockets announced the appointment of Carl Arena as senior VP development, continuing its aggressive growth plan.

Arena will work closely with new CEO John Fuller and the heads of international and domestic franchising, to develop strategic growth plans for the global restaurant chain.

Arena will oversee the development team and spearhead all real estate projects, from scouting new locations to managing the launch of store openings. Johnny Rockets is expected to launch an additional 30 to 40 franchise locations this year, including three new concepts: sports lounges, mobile kitchens and its new FAST! model.

Arena previously served as director of real estate development for Catalina Restaurant Group in Carlsbad, Calif., where he was responsible for new store development and asset management for the Coco's and Carrows restaurant chains.