Kure Franchise—a wholly owned subsidiary of Kure Corp., which specializes in the global distribution of vaporizing pens, e-juices, and related accessories—has named Jonathan Benjamin its new CEO.
Benjamin will oversee global growth and positioning of the leading vaporium and lounge retailer and lead Kure’s aggressive franchise retail store expansion throughout the United States and internationally.
Benjamin’s hiring comes just weeks after Kure Corp. announced the completion of $4.7 million in capital financing from institutional and accredited investors to help fund Kure’s retail store expansion in the United States. The expansion will be accomplished primarily through franchising, and a campaign is planned to attract franchise candidates nationwide.
With more than 20 years of leadership experience, Benjamin most recently held the title of chief development officer at Huddle House, where he led a national development campaign for the family restaurant chain. He is credited with reversing the company’s previous decline in image and store count and significantly increased its remodel and growth trajectory.
Prior to Huddle House, Benjamin served as vice president of franchise sales at Corner Bakery Café, where he created a new franchise sales department and implemented new sales systems and processes that lead to record-breaking franchise growth.
“We knew we wanted a new CEO with energy, vision and a deep knowledge of franchise development to lead the business into new markets,” said Kure Corp. CEO David Peterson. “We all believe Jonathan is the perfect fit for Kure during this exciting time in the evolution of the vaporium industry.”
Benjamin’s immediate priority will assembling a team to drive and support the anticipated growth of the company.
“It’s an honor to have the opportunity to lead the Kure team as we focus on expanding the company into new markets,” Benjamin said. “I’m thrilled to be a part of a rapidly-emerging industry and to have the opportunity to help Kure establish a preeminent position in the premium juice and vaporium category.”
Kure has three Kure Vaporium & Lounge stores in the Charlotte, North Carolina, USA, and Boca Raton, Florida, USA, areas. Three additional Vaporium & Lounge locations are scheduled to open in the Charlotte area within the next three months.