#Knoxville #United States #Red Door Brands #Kayla Edidin #Mike's Red Tacos

Kayla Edidin Steps into COO Role at Red Door Brands

In an exciting move that aims to bolster the growth of Red Door Brands, Kayla Edidin, the former Vice President of Franchise Development for Mike's Red Tacos, has been named Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the Knoxville-based multi-unit, multi-brand portfolio company. Her appointment comes on the heels of a record-setting year for Mike's Red Tacos, where Edidin's leadership played a pivotal role in selling over 200 franchises in just the first year of operations.

Entering 2026, Red Door Brands is positioned to regain momentum after navigating challenges in the previous year. CEO Argus Wiley expressed his enthusiasm for Edidin's leadership, highlighting her extensive background in restaurant operations and franchise growth as vital assets for the company. "Kayla's substantial background... makes her uniquely qualified to help get our existing restaurants where they need to be and to continue to grow our portfolio," he stated, emphasizing a collective focus on building a stronger organization.

Edidin's career in the food industry has shown a commitment to operational excellence and strategic expansion. In her new role, she plans to prioritize system standardization and operational efficiency, two critical areas that, when optimized, can significantly enhance overall performance. Moreover, she aims to leverage her established relationships in the banking sector to draw in new capital partners, with an ambitious goal of expanding Red Door Brands' portfolio to over 100 units by 2028.

One of the crucial challenges facing Red Door Brands is the recent financial struggle of its affiliate, Matadoor Restaurant Group, which had to file for Chapter 11 protection in 2025. This restructuring move was a strategic decision to streamline operations and prioritize long-term growth after experiencing a decline in same-store sales. Edidin’s expertise in operations will be vital in ensuring that Red Door Brands successfully navigates these challenges while capitalizing on its strong foundation.

Edidin expressed her excitement about joining Red Door Brands, stating, "I’ve always loved selling franchises, but at my core, I’m an operator." She reiterated her belief in the company’s foundational strengths and has set her sights on leveraging consistent systems and execution to drive substantial growth. "We have work to do to get the company fully back on track," she acknowledged, expressing her dedication to the organization’s mission and the importance of maximizing the resources available at this time.

With nearly 20 franchised restaurants under its umbrella—including notable names such as McAlister's Deli, Little Caesars, Arby's, and Main Squeeze Juice Co.—Red Door Brands is primed for accelerated growth. The focus on operational excellence and guest satisfaction remains at the forefront of their strategy, promising an exciting future under Edidin’s leadership.

As she embarks on this challenge, Edidin remains committed to improving operational functionality and ensuring the sustainable development of Red Door Brands, paving the way for a chapter marked by resilience and growth. The company aims to strengthen its market presence while striving for unparalleled guest experiences across its various restaurant brands.

For further information about Red Door Brands and to stay updated on their progress, visit their official website at reddoorbrandsllc.com.