The creators of Dine America, an annual conference for foodservice executives, welcomed David Davoudpour, chairman and CEO of Shoney’s, to its exciting lineup of keynote speakers at the 2011 conference earlier this week.
Davoudpour bought the struggling Shoney’s chain from Lone Star in 2007. With a focus on innovation, simplicity, and community involvement, Davoudpour’s undertaking has created a special comeback story for the industry.
On Tuesday, October 11, Davoudpour took the stage in a rare public speech, disclosing to fellow executives how he funneled 28 years of foodservice and hospitality experience into rejuvenating the 62-year-old Shoney’s brand.
“We were very pleased to add a restaurant leader of David Davoudpour’s stature to the conference,” says Greg Sanders, group publisher of Food News Media. “Our attendees certainly gained top-level insight from his participation.”
Before purchasing Shoney’s, Davoudpour created and operated a number of successful concepts throughout the U.S. in the casual-dining, family-dining, and quick-service categories. His career is also decorated with numerous industry awards.
Dine America, a product of Food News Media, is a two-day executive idea exchange with an emphasis on innovative professional development and elite networking opportunities. At the eighth-annual conference earlier this month, attendees enjoyed provocative breakout sessions, astute presenters, and a fluff-free agenda.
News Media hosted the executive leadership conference Dine America from October 9–11, 2011, in Atlanta.
