As it prepares to more than double in size by the end of 2022, Hawaiian fast casual restaurant chain Mo’Bettahs has announced the appointment of a new president. Co-founders and brothers Kalani and Kimo Mack have named Rob Ertmann to lead the company as it ramps up expansion efforts in three new markets.
“Rob Ertmann joins us at such a crucial time in our business as we continue to grow into new markets,” Kalani Mack said. “His experience and multi-unit growth pedigree are the perfect fit to help Mo’Bettahs spread our authentic brand of 'Aloha' to those customers looking for that true island taste.”
Ertmann’s hire comes as Mo’Bettahs announces its intentions for a massive expansion, adding 26 new locations to its existing 22 locations in Utah and Idaho. The brand plans to open its first stores in Texas, Oklahoma and Kansas City.
Mo’Bettahs was acquired by Savory Fund in 2017, a management group that infuses startup brands with capital and pairs them with its team of 65 industry veterans, who have experience in real estate, development and construction, store operations, technology, recruiting, training and finance.
“After reviewing and meeting with several dozen impressive leaders within the food and beverage industry, Rob Ertmann really stood out because of his genuine personality, his humility and his willingness to be a servant leader,” said Andrew K. Smith, managing partner of Savory Fund. Ertmann has more than 25 years of experience in the restaurant and retail industries. He most recently served as chief operating officer at Philz Coffee, a fast-growing specialty coffee company based in San Francisco. He also held leadership roles at Einstein Noah Restaurant Group, where he was responsible for more than 200 company-owned locations and revenue in excess of $170 million, and Peet’s Coffee, where he oversaw 250 company-owned locations and revenue in excess of $269 million.
“I am thrilled to join this incredible brand, shaped by Kimo and Kalani to serve incredible food inspired by their growing up in Hawaii,” Ertmann said. “It is an exciting time to be a part of this journey as we grow the number of communities that get to share this delicious island food, both in Utah and into new markets that have yet to experience Mo’Bettahs.”
MoBettah’s opened its first store in Bountiful in 2008.