Melting Pot’s Recipe for Success: How CEO Bob Johnston Keeps the Fire Burning

When it comes to creating a unique dining experience, few brands do it like Melting Pot, and Bob Johnston, its CEO — or as he calls himself, “Chief Excitement Officer” — is leading the charge. In a recent interview with Rob Gandley on the Franchise Marketing Radio podcast, Johnston shared insights into how Melting Pot continues to stand out in a competitive restaurant industry and what’s next as the brand approaches its 50th anniversary.

“Our mission in 10 years is to have 10 million fondue-infused occasions for consumers,” said Johnston. “That’s not just through our brick-and-mortar restaurants but also through retail and e-commerce channels.”

Johnston’s journey with Melting Pot began over 40 years ago when he worked as a dishwasher in one of his brothers’ restaurants in Florida. Since then, he’s risen through the ranks, now overseeing a franchise system with nearly 100 locations across the U.S. Melting Pot, a fondue-based dining experience, offers guests more than just a meal — it provides an opportunity to connect over a shared, interactive dining experience. Johnston credits this unique concept and the brand’s core values for its longevity.

“One of our core principles is embracing enthusiasm,” Johnston said. “We love what we do, and that passion extends to our guests, creating something special that you don’t find in casual dining.”

As Melting Pot gears up for its 50th year, Johnston remains focused on growth — but not just for the sake of expansion. Through initiatives like the Conversion Program, which allows restaurant owners to rebrand their existing locations as a Melting Pot, the brand is strategically targeting markets that align with its concept. Johnston believes that staying true to the brand’s roots — while also embracing innovation in areas like culinary development and technology — is key to long-term success.

“At the end of the day, it’s about creating an experience that’s both emotionally and physically satisfying for our guests,” said Johnston. “That’s what keeps people coming back.”

With a blend of passion, community connection, and forward-thinking innovation, Melting Pot is poised to continue delivering memorable dining experiences for decades to come.

Listen to the full podcast here.

About Melting Pot

Founded in 1975, Melting Pot has offered a unique fondue dining experience for more than 45 years. As the premier fondue restaurant franchise, Melting Pot has 92 restaurants in 31 U.S. states and Canada. Known for offering a variety of fondue cooking styles and unique entrées, Melting Pot’s menu also features cheese fondues, salads, fine wines, spirits and chocolate fondue desserts. Fondue fans can join Melting Pot’s Club Fondue for exclusive promotions, special events and advance holiday reservation privileges. Melting Pot is an affiliate of Front Burner Brands, a restaurant management company headquartered in Tampa, Florida. For more information, visit www.meltingpot.com. To learn more about franchise opportunities with Melting Pot, please visit www.meltingpotfranchise.com.