March 11-13, 2025 | Myrtle Beach, SC — Price increases by $150 after February 7. Register Now

Breakout Session / Thursday / March 13, 2025 / 10:00 AM

Building Sustainable and Ethical Franchises That Actually Make Money

Creating sustainable and ethical franchises is not only a moral imperative but also a strategic business decision as it attracts socially responsible customers, enhances your brand reputation and drives long-term profitability.

This session will explore key strategies for creating a sustainable and ethical franchise, including:

  • Defining sustainability goals.
  • Implementing sustainable practices.
  • Communicating sustainability efforts.
  • Measuring and tracking progress.

PANELISTS

Ryan Black | CEO & Co-Founder | Sambazon Açaí Bowls
Ryan Black is the CEO and co-founder of SAMBAZON, the pioneering brand that introduced Organic and Fair Trade açaí to the world. Black founded the company in 2000 alongside his brother Jeremy and friend Ed after a surf trip to Brazil, where he recognized the potential of certified açaí as a catalyst for sustainable development in the Amazon Rainforest. Under his leadership, SAMBAZON has become the global leader in açaí, with products available in over 30,000 U.S. retail locations and more than 50 countries. Black is now leveraging the company’s industry expertise and best-in-class proprietary supply chain to expand SAMBAZON Açaí Bowls quick-service locations in both traditional and nontraditional venues.
Sebastian Ferrer | Vice President of Operations | Gong cha
Scott Mobley | President | Stoner's Pizza Joint
Scott Mobley is a seasoned leader in the restaurant and franchising industry. As the President of Stoner's Pizza Joint, he oversees the brand's strategic growth, operational efficiency, and franchise development, driving its expansion across new markets. Before stepping into his current role, Scott was the Chief Operating Officer at Stoner's Pizza Joint, where he played a key role in streamlining operations and fostering strong relationships with franchisees. His experience also includes leadership positions such as Director of Franchising at Wings Over, Inc., where he guided national growth efforts, and his work with Zaxby’s Franchising, LLC, supporting operational and franchise development for one of the top fast-casual restaurant brands in the U.S. Scott is deeply committed to helping franchisees succeed by combining his industry expertise with a collaborative approach to building sustainable and thriving businesses.