Restaurant Franchising & Innovation Summit

Speaker Spotlight: John Lucas, VP, Farmer Boys

Read more about John Lucas, VP of Farmer Boys in today's Speaker Spotlight.

Photo: Networld Media Group

January 13, 2026 by Bradley Cooper — Editor, ATM Marketplace & Food Truck Operator

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Franchisees and franchisors will gather at the Restaurant Franchising & Innovation Summit in San Diego from March 16 to 18 to network and learn from an impressive array of panels covering all the hot button issues in the industry. For example, one panel will take a deep dive into how you can build an unstoppable franchise team by reducing turnover, streamlining operations, and implementing strategies to train the best staff.

John Lucas, VP of brand and franchise development at Farmer Boys will join this panel to provide insights into how he created a winning team. Read more about him in today's Speaker Spotlight.

Describe your current role.

I oversee both the franchise operations and franchise development of Farmer Boys.

What was your first-ever career role and what is one important lesson you learned from it?

My first career role was at Rossi's Restaurant, a small, fine dining Italian place in Cranston, Rhode Island. The most valuable lesson I learned was teamwork.

What inspired you to work in your industry?

My Nonna! She was an amazing Italian home cook. I spent some of my childhood on a step stool by her stove watching and learning. She was truly my first inspiration to join the industry. I remember in 3rd grade telling a classmate that I was going to be a chef when I grew up!

What do you enjoy most about your current role?

The incredible team I have the honor to lead, and additionally, the amazing franchisees that I have the pleasure of partnering with each day to help grow their business, create generational wealth and provide a path forward for the brand.

What's a common misconception people have about what you do?

That selling franchise locations is easy! It's a significant investment with some level of risk and it requires substantial time in building strong, trusting relationships to help move new franchisees forward.

What is one career achievement you're most proud of?

Becoming an executive chef by 30 years old. I was very focused on this goal coming out of culinary school and owe a huge debt of gratitude to the chefs that helped me build my skills and prepare for the role.

Who is/was your mentor and what's one important lesson you learned from them?

During my early career I had the good fortune of working with a great chef from Nice, France. He was a great role model as a kind and inspiring leader. I am very fortunate that our paths crossed.

What industry trends do you think are currently over-hyped and why?

AI and automation. People will always want service and hospitality to be part of their dining experience, and machines will never be able to successfully reproduce the warm welcomes, positive vibes and great service that a good restaurant team can deliver.

What industry trends do you think don't get enough attention and why?

Experience driven dining. With younger people drinking less, they are in search of a great night out without consuming copious amounts of alcohol, and places that deliver a fun, interactive, sharing experience are poised to be very successful.

What advice would you give to someone just starting out in your industry?

It really hasn't changed in my many years in the industry. Beyond learning your craft and becoming skilled in your role, learn how to be a great teammate. A "good" player who works well with others will always beat out a "great" player that doesn't.

If you weren't working in your current field, what would you be doing instead?

Teaching culinary arts or restaurant management.

What do you do to have fun outside of work?

I love to ski and hike, and enjoy great food and wine.

Are you involved in any charitable organizations that you would like to tell people about?

I'm a volunteer ski instructor for a group called The Achievers, (part of Move United), that supports individuals with physical and mental disabilities. This gives me a tremendous amount of inspiration and gratitude.

Click here to register for RFIS. Use the code AMCEDIT20 for 20% off at checkout.

FranchisingFarmer Boys

About Bradley Cooper

Bradley Cooper is the editor of ATM Marketplace and Food Truck Operator. He was previously the editor of Digital Signage Today. His background is in information technology, advertising, and writing.

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