Ascent Hospitality Management

The opening marks a historic first for Huddle House and an exciting new way to meet customers during their everyday routines.

New COO and majority partner Kayla Edidin is implementing store-level structure at Red Door Brands, a portfolio company operating Arby’s, McAlister’s Deli, and Little Caesars.

The breakfast chain is offering zero-percent royalties for the first year to franchisees who commit to developing at least three new restaurant locations.

August 19, 2026 — Dixon, Illinois. The City of Dixon in partnership with Perkins Restaurant and Bakery, is offering a deal for entrepreneurs looking to be part of the leading family-dining concept.

“Bringing our teams together let us celebrate shared and individual achievements while setting the course for a strong future,” said Paul Damico, President & CEO.

O’Reilly brings considerable experience to the two chains. In addition to his tenure at Ascent, O’Reilly led Smokey Bones and Long John Silver’s as CEO, according to his LinkedIn profile.

- Fast Casual - Executives - News James O’Reilly named CEO of &pizza, Tijuana Flats parent company He takes over the leadership spot about eight months after Latitude Food Group wa

Latitude Food Group (LFG), an operator-led restaurant group built to accelerate bold fast‑casual brands, today announced James O’Reilly as its next chief executive officer.

June 16, 2026 // Franchising.com // Wellston, OH – Huddle House is expanding into new territory with its first-ever development in Southern Ohio, marking a significant milestone for the family dining brand.

Springfield, MO – Huddle House recently signed a 10-unit development deal to expand its footprint across the Midwest.

Dallas, TX - Perkins Restaurant and Bakery is officially entering the Lone Star State.

Campbell’s appointment follows the recent announcement of a new Brand President for sister brand Perkins American Food Co., both under the Ascent Hospitality Management portfolio.

Perkins American Food Co. appoints Matt Carpenter as Brand President.

Ascent Hospitality Management promotes Natalie Hansen to VP of franchise sales, citing her instrumental role in spearheading franchise growth.

Perkins Griddle & Go signs a 10-unit development deal with retired executives Giuseppe and Nicole Lahara, expanding the brand to Mercer County, New Jersey.

Perkins American Food Co expands with multi-unit deal in Dallas.

Huddle House opens in Laredo, Texas, at Mall del Norte.

“As we celebrate 60 incredible years, we lay the foundation for the next 60 in a big way, stepping confidently into our evolution,” said James O’Reilly, CEO of Ascent Hospitality Management, the parent company of Huddle House.

Husband-and-wife duo Guiseppe and Nicole Lahara recently signed a 10-unit development deal with Perkins American Food Co.

Perkins Griddle & Go signs 10-unit deal in New Jersey

Harrington family expands Huddle House in Georgia with eighth location.

Perkins Griddle & Go opens in New Jersey with 10 locations planned.

WE Foods signs a 20-unit deal to develop Huddle House restaurants in Texas, with the first location opening in Spring, Texas.

Sam Atkinson to open 3 Perkins Griddle & Go locations in Texas.