Former Pizza Hut General Manager to Open Las Vegas’ First Togo’s Franchise

California-based sandwich franchise Togo’s Eateries is excited to open their first location in Las Vegas, and Wayne Bauer is thrilled to be the man to do it. Bauer, who is a California native himself, will open his first location early next year with plans to open an additional two units over the next several years.

Bauer, who has built his career working in both the restaurant and entertainment industries, said his decision to open his own Togo’s in Vegas was heavily influenced by nostalgic feelings toward the brand.

“Growing up in the late 80s, my friends and I would leave campus for lunch to get Togo’s. I grew up on the brand, and it’s always been a favorite of mine,” Bauer said. “I saw an opportunity to bring a part of my childhood in California to Las Vegas, the only location in the state of Nevada.”

Amid the pandemic, there’s been a great deal of unpredictability surrounding the future of the restaurant industry, but as an industry veteran with a background in hospitality, Bauer is prepared to take on the challenge and carry out successful franchise operations.

“I worked at Pizza Hut and as a general manager for 10 years. I ran a training store and was responsible for helping develop many of the future management team members in my area,” Bauer said. “People know me well for having good operations and being a great general manager and trainer who takes care of people; both employees and guests alike.”

Delicious fast-casual sandwiches and quality restaurant service aren’t the only values Bauer plans to bring to Vegas with the opening of his own Togo’s — he’s eager for the opportunity to create jobs as well. 

“I’m looking to build a team that will be focused on caring enough about our customers and their food to make it right the first time. They should have the attitude that it’s not just another sandwich, but instead, treat it like it could be someone’s reward; from a team’s victory, or an office having met their goals, to a birthday celebration,” Bauer continued. “I’ll be looking for people who love people and have a passion for service. So much of that is lacking in today’s fast-food climate with very few exceptions. The first three stores will open within approximately one year of each other. However, my goal is to continue to grow and open five total locations in Las Vegas suburbs.” 

With his hunt for real estate still underway, Bauer is hoping to open his first Togo’s location within the year ,and he’s not the only one excited. John Dyer, Director of Franchise Sales and Real Estate for the brand, says Bauer’s the ideal partner to team up with, especially within a market that’s currently so fragile. 

“Wayne’s experience within hospitality and the restaurant industry is the perfect marriage. It’s a dream come true to have him signing on for three locations,” Dyer said. “We’re also thrilled to bring the brand to a new market. It’s always exciting to be able to introduce our food to a new group of consumers and bring Togo’s to a market with so many folks who grew up loyal fans of the brand in California who have been pleading for us to come to Las Vegas!”