News

Johnny Rockets shooting across Central America

October 18, 2012

Johnny Rockets will open eight restaurants throughout Central America, including in Honduras, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, El Salvador and Guatemala over the next five years as part of a franchise agreement with Maria Eugenia Handal Canahuati. The first Central American location opened in 2012 in Panama City.

A graduate of The General Manager Program at Cornell University School of Hotel Administration, Handal is owner of Desarrollos Gastronomicos Internacionales Corporation. She is executive vice president of her corporation's hotel company and oversees the Crowne Plaza San Pedro Sula and the Holiday Inn Express San Pedro Sula in Honduras. Her corporation also manages a pharmaceutical company that specializes in manufacturing, a renewable energy company with hydroelectric plants, a clothing store franchise and several real estate projects.

"With more than 41 million people in seven countries, Central America continues to represent a tremendous opportunity for Johnny Rockets," Steve Devine, president of Johnny Rockets International, said in a company press release. "Maria's passion and impressive background make her the ideal person to bring our flavorful fare, friendly service and fun ambiance to more countries in this rich geographic area."

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