Franchisee Voices: David Lutton Of Famous Toastery

In addition to bringing his 10-year-plus experience from Panera Bread to Famous Toastery, David Lutton is closing out the Charlotte market for the brand by signing at 5-unit agreement.

While attending Michigan State University, David received a position with Houlihan’s Old Place as a line cook. Upon graduation, his job transitioned into a career. Over six years, he climbed the ladder of success from line cook to manager and eventually to assistant general manager in West Palm Beach, Fla., where he was responsible for overall restaurant operations.

From 1988 to 2003, David joined Ruby Tuesday where he played multiple roles at various locations, including restaurants in Florida, Tennessee and eventually North Carolina. As a leader in many successful organizations, most recently as a key role in the development of Panera Bread in the Charlotte market, his passion is now focused on the future where he plans to build a small business from old school values.

In addition to being one of the first joint venture partnerships for Panera Bread, over a span of 10 years David contributed to the initial growth and development for the chain in the entire Charlotte market, as well as the development of its management teams. David’s 10 years as joint venture general manager of the Panera in Matthews, N.C. resulted in building lifelong friendships in the community, as well as a very successful business venture.

In 2014 David decided to retire. While living in North Carolina, he visited Famous Toastery numerous times and befriended COO Brian Burchhill. Knowing that he still wanted to work post retirement, and his knowledge of the industry, David saw an opportunity with Toast Café and inquired about potential opportunities.

With the chance to sign the last agreement for the Charlotte market, David made the decision to sign on with the brand and contribute to the success of the growing franchise.

Visit the International Franchise Association’s @OurFranchise website for more stories of passionate local franchise owners, employees and their communities.