HOUSTON – Russo’s Restaurants, the family of dining concepts that includes Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen, recently announced seasoned franchise owner Guillermo Medellin as the recipient of its coveted “Franchisee of the Year” award.
Winners are recognized annually at the International Franchise Association’s gala held during its Public Affairs Conference in Washington, D.C. The award is presented by participating franchisors and honors sales achievements, dedication to industry advocacy and community leadership.
“I’m honored to be recognized as Russo’s ‘Franchisee of the Year’,” said Guillermo Medellin, who owns three Russo’s Restaurants franchises. “This award is a testament to the hard work we put in each and every day at all of our restaurants, and the amazing people we have on board to help us do so. I can’t wait to share the news and celebrate this award with my team.”
Medellin, originally from Mexico, worked in the manufacturing industry before moving to the United States. Since purchasing his first Russo’s franchise in 2009, he now operates three Russo’s Restaurants concepts in Texas: The Woodlands, Spring and Houston, and has made an impact in each market through partnerships and regular community giveback.
“Guillermo’s passion makes him an excellent leader here at Russo’s,” said Chef Anthony Russo, the creative culinary genius behind the brand who also serves as its CEO. “He’s willing to put in hard work, learn and help others. And, while we have dozens of incredible franchisees in our network, Guillermo really set himself apart this year – I couldn’t think of someone more deserving of our ‘Franchise of the Year’ award.”
Russo’s New York Pizzeria and its traditional Italian recipes trace their origins to a tight-knit family where the kitchen was the center of activity.
Along with its sister brand, Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen, Russo’s New York Pizzeria has garnered a cult-like following for its truly authentic and delicious Italian dishes made from the freshest ingredients, and its New York-style pizza. The restaurants blend premium recipes with the freshest ingredients that are all natural with no preservatives, no additives and zero trans-fats. Chef Russo’s family promise, “If it isn’t fresh, don’t serve it!” is the mantra of each and every franchisee who has been certified and mastered the Russo’s brand operating criteria.
Complete Russo’s New York Pizzeria menu options are available at www.nypizzeria.com.
About Russo’s Restaurants
Russo’s Restaurants is a 47-location national and international franchisor of the fast casual and casual dining brands Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen. Based in Houston, Russo’s Restaurants is composed of a mix of corporate and franchised locations across Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Tennessee, Florida and Hawaii. Russo’s has entered international markets as well, with locations in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, in the United Arab Emirates. There are an additional 30-plus units in development both in the United States and internationally. Chef Anthony Russo has created his concepts from years of applying his unique, family recipes featuring New York-style pizza, along with a broad variety of handcrafted pasta creations, calzones, salads, sandwiches, soups and desserts, reflecting his commitment to his New York roots where food and family come first.
