James H. Amos Jr., CFE, chairman and CEO of Tasti D-Lite and Planet Smoothie, has been named to the International Franchise Association (IFA) Hall of Fame. The announcement was made this week at the IFA's 52nd annual convention.
The Hall of Fame award is the oldest and most prestigious award conferred by the IFA and is presented to an IFA member who has made significant contributions to the advancement of franchising.
Amos' achievements include serving as the IFA's 2001 chairman and various other leadership positions, serving as counsel to IFA leaders and staff, helping veterans enter franchising and mentoring emerging leaders.
"Jim is one of the most strategic thinkers in franchising today and we applaud him on this well-deserved recognition," said IFA Chairman Jack Earle, managing partner of Earle Enterprises LP and a multi-unit franchisee of McDonald's. "Jim's sage advice and dedication to the franchise industry is built on solid experience as a successful industry leader and is reflected in his willingness to serve IFA in a variety of capacities."
Amos and New York-based private equity firm Snow Phipps Group acquired Tasti D-Lite in 2007. Since, Tasti D-Lite has grown into a national brand with 67 centers in 14 states and Washington, D.C. and four international locations. The chain is on the path to open 500 stores globally.
Tasti D-Lite acquired Planet Smoothie, which has more than 100 units in Georgia and Florida, at the end of 2011.
Amos was previously chairman and CEO of Mail Boxes Etc., now known as The UPS Store, and was CEO of the Brice Group in Dallas. He currently serves as chairman of Agile Pursuits Franchising Inc. (a Procter & Gamble company).
Amos is a Marine Corps veteran who served in Vietnam, and has received 12 decorations including the Purple Heart and Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry. He has made employment and franchise opportunities for veterans a priority at Tasti D-Lite and Planet Smoothie.
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