The Restaurant Franchisor Focuses on Healthful Eating
Joel Bulger will serve as chief marketing officer of WOWorks, the parent company of restaurant franchises including Saladworks, Frutta Bowls, Garbanzo Mediterranean Fresh, The Simple Greek, Barberitos and Z!Eats. Bulger will rely on 25-plus years of marketing and brand development experience in his new role. He joins another newcomer to WOWorks’ leadership – Chief Growth Officer Steve Corp.
Bulger said his WOWorks position is like “coming home” because of his long-standing relationships with Corp and CEO Kelly Roddy. “We have a very solid understanding of our individual and group strengths and how to work together,” Bulger said. Bulger and Corp will play major parts in the umbrella franchisor’s future growth and success, the CEO said, helping drive “our mission to become one of the leading plant-forward and good-for-you restaurant companies.”
Restaurant Franchising and Marketing
Bulger has long been involved in franchising, with his first role as head of marketing for Wendy’s southeast region. He also has worked for On The Border, Zaxby’s, Johnny Rockets and GoTo Foods (formerly Focus Brands). While at GoTo Foods, Bulger and Corp teamed to grow Moe’s Southwest Grill from 200 units to more than 800. “He is fantastic at what he does, and I believe he is the best in the business,” Bulger said of Corp.
Bulger sees a bright future for WOWorks. “Kelly’s vision for WOWorks is spot-on for the way guests are wanting to eat right now. Through our various offerings, we can give each one of them customized meals that fit exactly with how they are trying to eat better every day.”
During his downtime, Bulger is an avid golfer and enjoys spending time with his family and two dogs, Baxter and Marley. He also has written a book about chair yoga to aid his 92-year-old mother’s fitness.
About WOWorks
Formed in 2020 and owned by Centre Lane Partners LLC, WOWorks specializes in healthful, flavorful meals throughout its portfolio of restaurant franchises. It has nearly 400 locations across the country.
