#USA #New York #Chip City Cookies #Nico Baizan #Enlightened Hospitality

Promoting Leadership from Within: Nico Baizan Takes the Helm

July 22, 2026 marked a significant milestone for Chip City Cookies, as the fast-growing, beloved cookie bakery announced the promotion of Nicolas "Nico" Gabriel Baizan de Aldecoa to President. This initiative signals not only a commitment to internal growth but also a focus on steering the company towards expansive growth strategies.

A Leader Emerges

Since joining Chip City in August 2025 as the Senior Director of Retail Operations, Nico has exemplified what it means to develop leadership from within. His promotion was officially announced by Fred LeFranc, the company’s CEO, who has been closely monitoring Nico's remarkable performance over the past year. "I have witnessed Nico immerse himself in the business's intricacies. He has not only earned the trust of our team, but he has also displayed a willingness to learn that is rare in any leadership position," LeFranc stated proudly.

Nico's extensive background in the food industry, rooted in his family's restaurant and manufacturing businesses, uniquely positions him to take charge during this pivotal time. His previous experience includes working with renowned chef José Andrés and holding key culinary leadership roles across restaurants in major cities like New York and Chicago.

Commitment to Quality

At Chip City, the philosophy is built around one simple concept: consistency. "People return to Chip City for one reason — we deliver every single time. This reliability isn’t happenstance; it’s the standard we’ve set, and it's a standard I plan to continue raising," Nico emphasizes.

His commitment goes further than mere consistency; it thrives on the collaborative spirit that Chip City embodies. Nico acknowledges the hard work of his team and understands that everyone's efforts contribute to the brand's overall success.

Vision for the Future

In his new role, Nico aims to not only strengthen revenue performance but also enhance profitability across the company’s 39 locations. Chip City’s reach spans New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Texas, and Virginia, establishing it as a local favorite known for its distinctive cookie offerings. With such growth under the company’s belt, a strategic approach will be crucial for sustainable expansion.

Paulina Orillac, Vice President at Enlightened Hospitality Investments (EHI) and a board member at Chip City, expresses her enthusiasm for Nico's leadership. "What stands out about Nico is his genuine passion for this industry and his enthusiasm for our brand. This resonates with our team and our guests alike," she remarked.

Chip City's Legacy

Founded nine years ago in Astoria, Queens, Chip City has quickly risen to prominence in the food industry. The company, a portfolio venture of Enlightened Hospitality Investments, which is headed by renowned restaurateur Danny Meyer, has an impressive operational footprint that indicates its growing popularity. EHI focuses on investing in promising growth opportunities, making Chip City’s ascent a celebrated achievement within the culinary field.

As Nico steps into his new role, the industry watches closely. His blend of experience, coupled with the team's dedication, promises a bright future for Chip City Cookies as it navigates the complexities of the ever-evolving food landscape. With Nico at the helm, the commitment to quality, team collaboration, and continuous improvement stands poised to drive the brand to new heights.