RECOMMENDED READING

  • Understanding the Recent Surge in Restaurant Industry Employment Growth

    By Ava Ingram • Oct. 4, 2024

  • Maximizing Restaurant Sales Through Dual-Branded Locations

    By Adrianne Irwin • Feb. 20, 2025

  • Optimizing Operations: The Success Story of Texas Roadhouse

    By Anastasia Ivers • Oct. 25, 2024

  • Navigating the Evolution of Off-Premises in the Restaurant Industry

    By Anastasia Ivers • Jul. 19, 2024

  • 7-Eleven's Strategic Store Expansion Plan and Revenue Growth Strategy

    By Adrianne Irwin • Apr. 17, 2025

  • Optimizing Restaurant Operations: The Impact of Executive Leadership Changes at Wendy’s

    By Adrianne Irwin • Jul. 24, 2025

  • Enhancing Restaurant Operations and Menu Integration at Applebee’s: A Leadership Perspective

    By Ava Ingram • Aug. 26, 2025

Restaurant Association Logo

Restaurant Association

Empowering restaurant professionals with free resources, training, and networking opportunities to build successful businesses.

Sign Up Free

Pages

  • Articles
  • News
  • Topics
  • Shows
  • Academy
  • Events
  • Jobs

About

  • About Us
  • Our Team
  • Contact Us
  • Sitemap

Resources

  • Library
  • Templates

Connect

LinkedInInstagramTikTokYouTubeX
  • Editorial Ethics Policy
  • Review Guidelines
  • Disclosure Policy
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Service

© 2026 Restaurant Association. All rights reserved.

logo
  1. News
  2. Topics
  3. Shows
  4. Academy
  5. Events
  6. Jobs
  7. Resources

    Videos

  • No results found

  • Articles

  • No results found

Log InSign Up Free
logo
LoginSign Up

    Videos

  • No results found

  • Articles

  • No results found

  1. Shows
  2. Academy
  3. Events
  4. Jobs

Become a member of the Restaurant Association!

Unlock exclusive access to webinars, events, and the latest news for FREE!

Sign up
Restaurant Association Logo

Strategic Expansion and Optimism: Insights from Mike Axiotis in the Restaurant Industry

Explore the career journey of Mike Axiotis, CEO of Lehigh Valley Restaurant Brands, and his strategies for franchise expansion and industry outlook. Learn about the National Restaurant Association's key focus areas for the coming year.

Updated On Nov. 22, 2024 Published Nov. 22, 2024

Ava Ingram

Ava Ingram

woman in front on brown dining table and chairs inside building

Photo by Louis Hansel on Unsplash

https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1514933651103-005eec06c04b?ixid=M3w2MjYzNjJ8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwzfHxMZWhpZ2glMjBWYWxsZXklMjBSZXN0YXVyYW50JTIwQnJhbmRzfGVufDB8MHx8fDE3MzIyMTAzNDd8MA&ixlib=rb-4.0.3

Photo by Louis Hansel on Unsplash

Mike Axiotis: A Journey from Dishwasher to CEO

Mike Axiotis' career trajectory in the restaurant industry is a testament to hard work and determination. Starting as a dishwasher in his uncle's diner, he gradually climbed the ranks to become the CEO of Lehigh Valley Restaurant Brands (LVRB). His experience working in various roles within the company showcases his deep understanding of the business operations and the industry as a whole.

Strategic Franchise Expansion of LVRB

Under Mike Axiotis' leadership, Lehigh Valley Restaurant Brands has embarked on a strategic expansion journey. With 20 Red Robin locations and 10 Wingstop units, the franchise group has been actively growing its portfolio. By investing in the Wingstop system and opening 10 new locations in the past two years, Axiotis has demonstrated a keen eye for opportunities and sustainable growth.

Industry Optimism and Vision for 2025

Mike Axiotis' positive outlook for 2025 reflects his confidence in the restaurant industry's resilience and potential for growth. By focusing on thoughtful expansion and strategic partnerships, Axiotis aims to position LVRB as a key player in the market. His strategic vision for the future underscores his commitment to innovation and adaptability in an ever-evolving industry landscape.

National Restaurant Association's Focus Areas

As a board member of the National Restaurant Association, Mike Axiotis is actively involved in shaping the industry's future. The association's focus on key issues such as sustainability, technology integration, and workforce development aligns with Axiotis' own priorities for LVRB. By staying informed and engaged with industry trends, Axiotis ensures that the company remains competitive and relevant in a dynamic market.