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Perkins & Marie Callender's Inc., Memphis, Tenn., said it promoted Cheryl Ahlbrandt to executive vice president of marketing and research and development. Officials said Ahlbrandt will oversee both the Perkins and Marie Callender's marketing teams as well as the company's food and beverage research and development efforts.  


A joint venture investment group, Wreath Equity LLC, said it purchased Daphne's Greek Cafe, a San Diego-based restaurant chain with 59 units in Arizona, California and Colorado. Terms were not disclosed. Wreath Equity includes Garrison Investment Group, New York City, and Trefethen Advisors LLC, Scottsdale, Ariz.

Said Daphne's new CEO William Trefethen, “We are very excited to acquire Daphne’s and recognize its tremendous potential for growth. We look forward to building on its strengths and traditions, including providing loyal customers with great tasting Greek-inspired dishes through new products such as our delicious Pita Melts.”

In related news, Daphne's said it has introduced a new Pita Melts line with three varieties: Grilled Chicken Pesto, Fire-Roasted Veggie Pesto and Fresh-Carved Gyros. The sandwiches combine grilled pita bread with signature Daphne’s flavors and melted cheeses, and are available for $5.99 each at all 59 locations.

Daphne’s Grilled Chicken Pesto Pita Melt features Mozzarella cheese, pesto, Feta cheese and grilled chicken breast layered with grilled Roma tomatoes. The Fire-Roasted Veggie Pesto Pita Melt is a perfect mixture of Mozzarella cheese, pesto, Feta cheese, grilled green bell peppers and grilled tomatoes. The Fresh-Carved Gyros Pita Melt is a meaty, cheesy combination of Daphne’s signature sliced gyros layered with American cheese, Daphne’s sauce and Feta cheese.