Blendz Announces David Gray as First Area Director

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Army Veteran Returns to San Diego to Get Back into Business

May 15, 2008 // Franchising.com // CAMPBELL, Calif. – Blendz, the quick-service restaurant where great-tasting, healthier food meets the speed and convenience of traditional fast food, today announced David Gray as the company's first Area Director. Gray, who re-enlisted in the U.S. Army in 2002 and served an additional five years, decided to return to San Diego when it was time to get back into the business world.

"I was relocating back to San Diego after my military service and looking for the right business opportunity. I had written my mission statement describing the type of café or quick-service restaurant I wanted to open and was also researching franchise opportunities, and then I found Blendz – the perfect opportunity and vehicle to re-enter the business arena," Gray said.

"San Diego has a large population of people who are fitness-conscious, but are often too busy to cook for themselves," Gray said. "They will love the fact that Blendz menu offerings support a healthier lifestyle than most quick-service restaurants, and that they don't have to sacrifice great taste and healthier food just because they are out of time."

Gray's most recent stint caps a 10-year career in the U.S. Army Intelligence Corps. that began when he enlisted at the age of 17. He learned how to rappel out of helicopters in the 101st Airborne Division at Ft. Campbell, Kentucky, was selected as the 101st Airborne Division Solider of the Month, received a promotion to Sergeant at age 20 and earned the Hinsch Leadership Award, among other accomplishments.

"From the first time we met him, CEO Matt Phipps and I knew that David's sales and training background and his enthusiasm for the Blendz concept were the ideal combination for success. We are very proud to announce him as the first Area Director. He sets the standard," said Scott Mortier, vice president of franchise development for Blendz.

"Blendz currently has two locations in San Diego County, in Oceanside and Carlsbad," Mortier said. "David has a plan for how he is going to expand our footprint and believes that the county can easily support 50 Blendz stores by 2018. We are excited to be working with David and to support him in realizing his vision."

Gray's previous business experience includes positions as staff auditor for an international accounting firm, sales manager for a Southern California music company, practice director for a medical facility in Berkeley, and most recently, as a certified training specialist for General Dynamics Information Technology. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from California State University, Fresno, where he graduated cum laude.

Blendz will be hosting a Small Business Opportunity seminar on Thursday, May 29th at the Spring Hills Suites by Marriott at 12032 Scripps Highlands Drive. The seminar runs about two hours and will begin at 7:00 p.m. Those interested in attending may visit www.blendz.com or call Scott Mortier at 312-285-7111 for more information.

About Blendz

Blendz quick-service restaurants feature tossed-to-order salads, grilled panini sandwiches, blended smoothies, delicious gourmet hot soups and at some locations, coffee and espresso drinks. Unlike traditional fast-food restaurants, Blendz combines a healthier fare with the speed and convenience that customers demand. Blendz is now offering franchise opportunities throughout the U.S. For additional information, please visit www.blendz.com or call 866.4.BLENDZ.

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