NEWTOWN, PA — The Rose Group, one of the nation’s largest Applebee’s franchise operators, is entering a new era of executive leadership following key promotions announced Thursday. Jason Rose has been named Chief Executive Officer, while longtime company leader Bonnie Lippincott steps into an expanded role as President and Chief Operating Officer.
The leadership transition marks a pivotal moment for the Newtown-based company, which owns and operates 55 Applebee’s Grill + Bar locations across Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware, and New Jersey, along with two Shannon Rose Irish Pubs in New Jersey. Founded in 1985 by Harry T. Rose, the company has since grown into one of the most prominent restaurant franchise groups in the Mid-Atlantic region.
Rose, who previously served as Executive Vice President of Real Estate Development, brings nearly 30 years of experience within the organization. His tenure includes leading major expansion efforts, such as acquiring the Harrisburg Applebee’s market and securing development rights for the company’s latest venture: JINYA Ramen Bar.
“Jason has a deep understanding of every facet of our organization and a clear vision for the future,” Lippincott said. “He represents the next generation of leadership at The Rose Group, combining innovation with a deep respect for our people, our culture, and the communities we serve.”
Lippincott, meanwhile, is one of the most recognized operators in Applebee’s 45-year history. Since joining The Rose Group in 1985, she has moved from restaurant manager to one of the chain’s most decorated leaders, earning six Operator of the Year awards and guiding the company’s reputation for operational excellence. She has served as COO since 2010.
Her elevation to President and COO reinforces the company’s long-standing emphasis on leadership continuity and hands-on operational oversight—key factors in its ranking as the 109th largest restaurant franchise company in the United States.
As the company looks ahead, Rose emphasized that future growth will be anchored in the values that have shaped The Rose Group since its founding.
“Our foundation has always been about being a great neighbor – to our guests, our team members, and our communities,” he said. “We’re excited to continue growing while honoring that mission in every restaurant we operate.”
With more than 3,000 employees across four states and an expanding portfolio that now includes JINYA Ramen Bar, the leadership shift suggests the company is preparing for its next phase of development at a time when the restaurant industry continues to adapt to evolving consumer expectations.
More information is available at www.therosegroup.com.
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