Original ChopShop Names Kyle Frederick as Chief Executive Officer

The Dallas-based fast-casual brand Original ChopShop has officially announced a significant leadership transition, appointing longtime Chief Operating Officer Kyle Frederick as the company’s new Chief Executive Officer. This move marks the end of a decade-long tenure for outgoing CEO Jason Morgan, who steered the "feel good" eatery from a regional operation into a multi-state franchise footprint. Morgan, who has been instrumental in the brand’s evolution since 2016, will transition into an advisory role, ensuring a seamless handover as the company enters its next phase of market expansion.

A Decade of Strategic Growth

The elevation of Kyle Frederick to the top executive role is the culmination of a strategic succession plan that has been in motion behind the scenes for some time. Frederick, a veteran of the hospitality industry with prior experience at Zoës Kitchen, joined the Original ChopShop team in 2016. Over the past ten years, he has played a foundational role in shaping the brand’s operational excellence, corporate culture, and the "Chopped-in-Shop" culinary philosophy that defines the customer experience.

During his tenure as COO, Frederick was heavily involved in the logistics of scaling the brand. When Jason Morgan first took the helm, the company operated only three locations, all centered in the Phoenix, Arizona, area. Today, the brand boasts 30 locations across four states, including major hubs in Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston, College Station, Tucson, and Atlanta. This growth trajectory was not merely a matter of opening new doors; it required the implementation of robust supply chain management, standardized training programs, and a digital infrastructure that supported the company’s expansion into the highly competitive fast-casual sector.

The Evolution of the Feel Good Brand

Original ChopShop was founded in 2013 in Old Town Scottsdale, Arizona. The brand’s value proposition—centered on "fueling well-being" through customizable bowls, salads, and nutrient-dense sandwiches—positioned it well for the shift in consumer preferences toward healthier, transparent, and customizable dining options.

The transition to a new CEO occurs at a pivotal moment for the company. Following the acquisition of all outstanding interest by Mac Haik Enterprises, a Houston-based investment firm, the brand has been injected with the necessary capital and strategic oversight to accelerate its growth beyond its original Southwest roots. The involvement of Mac Haik Enterprises has been a critical factor in the company’s ability to compete with larger, national fast-casual chains. By prioritizing high-quality, real ingredients and providing a variety of dietary-friendly options—including gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan choices—the brand has maintained a loyal customer base that crosses demographic boundaries.

Official Statements and Leadership Vision

Reflecting on the decade of progress, outgoing CEO Jason Morgan noted the transformation of the brand from a local favorite to a regional powerhouse. "What started as three Shops in Phoenix is now 30 locations across four markets, and I think ChopShop’s best days are still ahead," Morgan said in an official statement. "I’m proud of everything our team has built over the last 10 years, and I’m excited about where Kyle will take it. I’ll be in his corner as an advisor, and I’m ready to watch this team continue to do big things."

For his part, Frederick expressed gratitude for the foundation laid during Morgan’s tenure. "The last 10 years proved what Original ChopShop can be. The next 10 are about showing how far we can take it," Frederick stated. His vision for the future involves a continued investment in human capital—specifically restaurant staff—and the deepening of relationships within the communities the brand serves. As the new CEO, Frederick is expected to prioritize technological integration, such as the further development of the Chops Loyalty rewards program, which has become a primary driver of repeat business and data-driven customer engagement.

Industry Context and Market Implications

The fast-casual restaurant industry has faced significant headwinds in recent years, ranging from fluctuating commodity costs and supply chain volatility to a tightening labor market. The appointment of an internal leader like Frederick suggests that Original ChopShop is prioritizing stability and institutional knowledge over a radical shift in strategy. By promoting from within, the company signals to its investors and franchisees that it intends to maintain the cultural "DNA" that has fueled its growth.

Furthermore, Frederick’s background as a "Top 40 Under 40" honoree by the Dallas Business Journal underscores his reputation as a modern leader capable of navigating the intersection of traditional operations and digital-first customer acquisition. His experience in managing the operational complexities of a growing chain will be tested as the brand looks to penetrate new markets beyond its current footprint. The challenge for the new CEO will be to maintain the "fresh" and "small-shop" feel of the brand while achieving the economies of scale necessary for national relevance.

Chronology of Expansion

• 2013: Original ChopShop is founded in Old Town Scottsdale, Arizona.
• 2016: Jason Morgan takes the helm as CEO; Kyle Frederick joins the leadership team.
• 2016–2020: The brand focuses on refining its "Chopped-in-Shop" operations and expanding its presence in the Arizona and Texas markets.
• 2021–2024: Significant expansion into new territories, including Houston, College Station, and Atlanta, supported by the backing of Mac Haik Enterprises.
• 2025: The company reaches the 30-unit milestone, solidifying its position in the competitive "health-conscious" fast-casual segment.
• 2026: Kyle Frederick is appointed Chief Executive Officer; Jason Morgan transitions to an advisory role.

Looking Ahead: The Next Phase of Growth

As Original ChopShop enters this new chapter, industry analysts will be watching closely to see how the brand balances its growth with the maintenance of its quality standards. The fast-casual market is currently defined by a "flight to quality," where consumers are increasingly willing to pay a premium for food that is perceived as healthier and more ethically sourced.

Frederick’s emphasis on "investing in our people" suggests that the company will likely focus on employee retention and training, which are critical metrics in the current labor climate. With the backing of Mac Haik Enterprises, the brand is well-positioned to leverage its current momentum to explore new geographies and potentially refine its digital ordering and delivery platforms.

The transition is more than just a change in the executive suite; it represents a test of the brand’s durability. Having successfully scaled to 30 locations, the challenge now lies in moving toward a national footprint without losing the local appeal that characterizes the Original ChopShop experience. Under Frederick’s leadership, the company appears poised to remain a significant player in the fast-casual space, continuing its mission to provide "feel good food" to a growing audience of health-conscious consumers.

For stakeholders, franchisees, and employees, the continuity offered by Frederick’s promotion provides a sense of predictability in an unpredictable market. With a decade of internal experience and a clear mandate to drive the brand into its next decade of operation, the transition represents a strategic alignment of vision and execution. As the company continues to invite guests to "Fuel Their Well-Being," the focus remains on operational rigor, community-centric growth, and the consistent delivery of the brand’s core menu offerings.

In the coming months, observers can expect to see further developments regarding new store openings and potential enhancements to the Chops Loyalty program, as Frederick begins to put his own imprint on the long-term strategy of the organization. Whether the brand chooses to accelerate its growth or optimize its existing portfolio, the leadership transition serves as a clear indication that Original ChopShop is prepared for the challenges and opportunities of the coming decade.