SPB Hospitality appoints GJ Hart as CEO

Group 1 - SPB Hospitality has appointed G.J. Hart as chairman and CEO, succeeding Josh Kern, who is transitioning to another executive role in the restaurant industry [8] - The company is focusing on its core brands, including Krystal, following the sale of several restaurant brands to streamline operations [4][8] - Krystal is exploring various growth strategies post-merger with SPB, including a refranchising initiative and new store designs [5][4] Group 2 - Hart's previous experience as CEO of Red Robin, where he led a brand turnaround, is expected to benefit SPB as it seeks to strengthen its brand portfolio [3][7] - SPB's other brands include Logan's Roadhouse, which has a significant presence in 22 states, and smaller brands like Stoney River and J. Alexander's [6][8] - The company has made strategic divestitures, including the sale of Old Chicago Pizza + Taproom and its brewery concepts, to concentrate on its main dining brands [8]