Ethan Albrecht-Carrie, the VP of Growth and Development at Lime Fresh Mexican Grill, shares the brand's transformative journey from its inception to becoming a contemporary force in the fast-casual dining sector. This episode delves into the challenges and successes encountered in reinvigorating a 20-year-old brand, emphasizing the critical role of innovation, culture, and intentional change. Albrecht-Carrie highlights the strategic pivot towards more nuanced, globally-inspired menu offerings, the introduction of a craft cocktail program, and the importance of maintaining a core connection with the brand's roots in fresh, quality ingredients. The discussion also explores Lime Fresh Mexican Grill's focus on creating a vibrant, engaging work environment for its team, showcasing how a strong organizational culture underpins the brand's ongoing evolution and expansion efforts. Through insights into operational strategies, menu development, and franchise growth, listeners gain a comprehensive look at the complexities of modernizing a beloved brand while staying true to its original mission.
