Sweetgreen taps new chief development officer; plans double-digit new stores this year
Health-focused fast-casual chain Sweetgreen has added to its C-suite as it continues to eye expansion.
Christopher Tarrant has joined the company as senior VP and chief development officer, and will oversee real estate development, design and construction. Tarrant most recently served as chief development officer of the specialty cake chain Nothing Bundt Cakes, and began his tenure there in February of 2023.
Previously, Tarrant spent over six years at Starbucks from 2016 to 2023, playing a key role leading retail store development across North America. He also has experience leading real estate strategies and revenue growth for restaurant chains including McDonald's, Panera Bread and Krispy Kreme.
The chain recently said that for fiscal year 2024, it expects to open between 24 and 26 new restaurants.
“We are thrilled to have Chris on the team as we embark on this next phase of pivotal growth,” said Rossann Williams, COO of Sweetgreen, who joined the company from Starbucks at the beginning of the year. “With Chris’ extensive real estate experience and industry knowledge, he’s an invaluable addition as we advance our mission to connect more communities to real food.”
Tarrant will report to Williams. Founded in 2007, Sweetgreen operates more than 230 restaurants across the United States, selling salads and bowls that prioritizes organic, regenerative and locally-sourced produce.
“Sweetgreen is transforming the world of fast food, both by offering quality, delicious food and driving thoughtful growth strategies that stay true to its mission,” said Tarrant. “I’m excited to join the team at a critical moment of growth, and to work hand in hand with the leadership team as we bring Sweetgreen to more communities nationwide.”
The C-suite move comes as Sweetgreen saw positive growth in its most recent quarter. For the fiscal period ended June 30, 2024, total revenue was $184.6 million, compared to $152.5 million in the prior year period, an increase of 21%. Same-store sales grew 9%, an increase of 6% from the second quarter of 2023.
