Family-friendly eatertainment chain Giggles N’ Hugs has promoted its business development officer, the former chief financial officer of California Pizza Kitchen, to its top post.
Philip Gay, who also previously was CFO and CEO of Wolfgang Puck Food Co., takes over the CEO job from Giggles N’ Hugs founder Joey Parsi. Parsi will step away from day-to-day operations to focus on his work as chairman of the company’s board.
Parsi said in a statement that he has worked to lay the foundation for Giggles N’ Hugs, which currently has two California units, to become a national brand. The concept is currently scouting mall locations for expansion of both company-owned and franchised units.
Giggles N’ Hugs caters to the 10-and-under set (and their parents) with play spaces, organic food and nightly entertainment, including magic shows, face painting and concerts.
Family-friendly eatertainment brand Chuck E. Cheese’s recently reported declining same-store sales, citing growing competition from bounce houses and trampoline parks.
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