In 2024 Rita’s Italian Ice opene 39 new shops, including ten international locations, bringing the total to 575 worldwide. Credit: George Sheldon/ Shutterstock.

US-based quick-service restaurant chain Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard has appointed two new executives to strengthen its leadership team.  

Lawrence Brown has been appointed as chief development officer, while Carmela Hughley steps in as senior vice-president of marketing insights and innovation.  

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Their combined expertise aims to propel the brand’s expansion and enhance consumer engagement. 

Brown brings extensive experience in franchising and business development to his role at Rita’s.  

Brown previously worked with Burger King, Fat Tuesday and Tim Hortons. Most recently, he was senior vice-president and head of franchising and development for Tide Services. 

Carmela Hughley, with more than 25 years of experience in marketing and brand strategy, will lead Rita’s marketing strategy, customer insights and innovation initiatives.  

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Most recently, Hughley served as vice-president of field operations at Madison Reed. 

As part of its forward-looking strategy, Rita’s is targeting high-potential markets and introducing new menu offerings to meet evolving consumer tastes.  

The incorporation of cutting-edge technology is expected to elevate the guest experience further.  

In 2024, Rita’s Italian Ice expanded its presence by opening 39 new shops, including ten international locations, bringing the total to 575 operating shops worldwide.  

The company has seen rapid growth in existing markets while also extending its footprint into new regions such as Michigan, Ohio and Texas. 

Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard CEO Linda Chadwick stated: “We are committed to driving growth and expansion across key markets, enhancing our product offerings through innovative design and development, and leveraging cutting-edge technology to further elevate the customer experience. 

“Together, these initiatives will position us for sustained success and the continued market leadership we’ve seen for 40 years and counting.” 

In early 2025, Maple Park Capital Partners made a majority growth investment in Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard, aiming to accelerate the ice cream chain’s growth.