CEO Roundtable: Sustaining Growth

Session details:

Hear from the CEOs of Death & Co, Dog Haus, and Fat Tuesday – all brands that have managed to thrive and scale despite industry challenges. With a relentless focus on the customer and innovative beverage programming, learn how they approach location expansion, strategic partnerships, and hospitality.  From craft cocktails to custom wine coolers, a buzzy biergarten and flavorful frozen drinks, these concepts have also doubled-down on beverages to drive profitability. Join us for a roundtable discussion on what's working and why, and how these leaders view the future of hospitality.

David Kaplan, CEO of Gin & Luck and co-founder of Death & Co
Death & Co is a world-renowned cocktail institution that helped pioneer the modern craft cocktail movement. Since its 2006 debut in New York City, it has expanded to four major U.S. cities, each offering a distinct atmosphere ranging from intimate speakeasies to sprawling hotel lounges. Death & Co has plans for global expansion as well as new locations across the U.S.

Alex Monahan, CEO of Fat Tuesday
Born in New Orleans in 1984, Fat Tuesday has grown to become the largest on-premise alcohol business in the U.S., specializing in frozen cocktails. With 54 company-owned locations and 22 franchised locations, Fat Tuesday is a prominent fixture in warm climates, tourist spots, and entertainment districts. Celebrating 40 years of innovation and service, Fat Tuesday continues to expand with plans to surpass 100 locations in the coming years.

Michael Montagano, CEO of Dog Haus
Dog Haus is a craft-casual hot dog concept known for its gourmet takes on hot dogs, sausages and smash burgers; premium shakes and soft-serve ice cream; and a beer program that spotlights local brews. With over 500 locations in the U.S., Dog Haus has expanded from its California roots to include a diverse mix of traditional restaurants, biergartens, and digital-only units.  In 2024, the brand leveled up with its biggest partnership yet, welcoming YouTuber and professional boxer Jake Paul as a franchisee and board member. Beloved by foodies and critics alike, Dog Haus has earned top industry honors, including Nation’s Restaurant News’ MenuMasters Award, Fast Casual’s Top 25 Movers and Shakers, and Franchise Times’ Zor Award as a “Top Brand to Buy.”