John Eckbert

John Eckbert, CEO of Five Guys in Europe, shares his transformative journey from banking to leading a booming fast-food brand. He discusses how Five Guys thrives on quality, simplicity, and word-of-mouth marketing rather than traditional advertising. Eckbert reflects on the challenges of maintaining consistency during expansion and emphasizes the importance of a strong internal culture. Personal struggles with mental well-being, the power of vulnerability, and the joy of community in building business success are also key highlights that resonate throughout the conversation.

John Eckbert, CEO of Five Guys UK and Europe, shares insights on the fast-food giant's ambitious expansion amid economic uncertainty. He discusses the importance of maintaining high-quality standards and excellent customer experience in a competitive market. Eckbert highlights strategies for employee retention, emphasizing above-minimum wages and staff development. He also explores the chain's adaptation to health trends and the revival of social dining post-COVID, all while navigating the unique challenges of the European market.