Doughnut specialist Crosstown has appointed Jo Blundell as its new CEO to help lead its next chapter of expansion and innovation.
Blundell replaces former Crosstown CEO Howard Ebison, who has taken up a job as divisional director for theme park Chessington World of Adventures, part of Merlin Entertainments.
The move follows its acquisition by franchise operator Karali Snacks in June, which was said to provide new investment to support the brand’s growth ambitions. Two months later, Crosstown secured its first supermarket listing at Waitrose with a five-strong range of sourdough doughnuts.
Blundell brings a proven track record in the food & beverage sector, having joined Crosstown from her most recent role as managing director of Papa John’s International. She also held senior marketing positions at Le Pain Quotidien (leaving three years prior to it entering administration), Burger King, and McDonald’s.
Karali Snacks parent company Karali Group was previously Britain’s largest independent Burger King franchisee prior to selling its 74 stores to the fast-food restaurant chain’s UK arm in 2022.
“Jo’s inimitable experience aligns perfectly with the vision for Crosstown and its growth ahead,” said Karim Janmohamed, Co-CEO of Karali Snacks. “Her deep understanding of consumer insights and operational excellence will be instrumental as we embark on exciting new initiatives to elevate Crosstown’s offering as a leading destination of indulgent treats”.
In her new role, Blundell is to focus on strengthening Crosstown’s brand identity, expanding its product range, and enhancing customer engagement strategies. This will include implementing innovative marketing campaigns and streamlining operations to ensure the highest quality of products and customer experiences, added Crosstown.
“I am thrilled to join Crosstown at such a pivotal moment in its journey,” commented Blundell. “With the support of Karali Snacks, we have an incredible opportunity to not only maintain the artisanal quality and creativity that Crosstown is known for but also to explore new avenues for growth nationally and internationally”.
Crosstown currently operates an estate of 12 stores (10 in London, and one each in Cambridge and Oxford) as well as two trucks and seven market kiosks spread across the capital. In additon to Waitrose, it also has retail concessions at Harrods and Whole Foods Market, and supplies events, catering, and wholesale channels along with online nationwide ordering.
Fellow doughnut brand Krispy Kreme also recently announced a change to its leadership with Guy Meakin joining from Pret to assume to the role of UK & Ireland president and MD.
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