A new president has been named for struggling barbecue chain Smokey Bones, which is also set to see another 15 underperforming stores close, the company said in a recent press release.
Twin Hospitality Group Inc. appointed Ken Brendemihl as president of its struggling chain Smokey Bones while announcing the closures as part of a larger restructuring effort. The leadership change comes as the parent company of both Smokey Bones and Twin Peaks restaurants works to streamline operations and eliminate inefficiencies across its portfolio.
Brendemihl brings more than 25 years of restaurant industry experience to the role, most recently serving as chief operating officer at Alamo Drafthouse cinema chain.
The company expects the closures, combined with approximately $1.5 million in reduced corporate overhead, to materially improve Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization (EBITDA) performance.
The downsizing leaves 26 Smokey Bones locations remaining in operation. These surviving restaurants generate positive cash flow and contributed approximately $3 million to total EBITDA on a trailing 12-month basis, with average unit volumes ranging from $1.3 million to $7.1 million.
Brendemihl's appointment follows a pattern of strategic moves by Twin Hospitality since acquiring the barbecue chain. His previous experience includes leadership positions at Velvet Taco, California Pizza Kitchen, Texas Roadhouse, and On the Border.
"I look forward to hitting the ground running as we embark on this transitional period that will set the foundation for Smokey Bones' long-term success," Brendemihl said in the press release.
The restructuring extends beyond closures to include strategic conversions of Smokey Bones locations into Twin Peaks sports bars. Twin Hospitality has identified 19 restaurants suitable for conversion into what it calls "better-performing Twin Peaks lodges.”
Two conversions have already been completed, generating much higher average unit volumes of approximately $7.8 million compared to $3.5 million when operating as Smokey Bones locations. A third conversion by a franchisee is currently under construction and expected to open later this year.
Twin Peaks locations feature sports bar atmospheres with wall-to-wall televisions and menus featuring beer, burgers, hot chicken, and fried pickles.
Smokey Bones was acquired as a 60-unit concept by FAT Brands Inc. in 2023 before being spun off into Twin Hospitality in January 2025.
FAT Brands operates multiple restaurant subsidiaries, including Fatburger, Johnny Rockets, Great American Cookie,s and Fazoli's.
Looking forward, Twin Hospitality plans to leverage FAT Brands' franchise model to begin franchising portions of the remaining Smokey Bones locations. This strategy aims to create a more balanced corporate-to-franchise mix while unlocking additional growth potential for the barbecue brand, the company said in its latest announcement.
The "Masters of Meat" restaurant chain serves barbecue, ribs, cocktails, and features a full bar with bourbon, whiskey, and craft beer selections. Locations serve lunch, dinner, and late-night dining daily.
"Ken will step in immediately bringing his deep operational expertise and proven track record to lead Smokey Bones into its next chapter," Boerema said in the press release.