Trump seeking economic deal with China as fresh trade talks loom- WSJ
HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif. - BJ’s Restaurants, Inc. (NASDAQ: BJRI) today announced a major leadership change with the appointment of Lyle D. Tick as Chief Executive Officer and President, effective immediately. The former President and Chief Concept Officer takes over from interim CEO C. Bradford Richmond, who will transition into a Special Advisor role to assist Tick.
Tick, who joined BJ’s as President and Chief Concept Officer in September 2024, has been credited with refining the company’s strategic vision. His contributions have focused on enhancing team member experiences, handcrafted food and beverages, hospitality, and maintaining a vibrant atmosphere. His leadership is expected to continue driving the company’s strategic plan for long-term shareholder value.
Lea Anne S. Ottinger, Chair of BJ’s Board, expressed confidence in Tick’s ability to lead the company to sustainable growth and create long-term shareholder value. Richmond also praised Tick’s clarity and focus on brand positioning and strategic initiatives.
Prior to his tenure at BJ’s, Tick held leadership roles at On the Border Mexican Grill & Cantina, Buffalo Wild Wings, Walgreens Boots Alliance, and Bacardi, among others. His experience is seen as an asset in guiding BJ’s through its next growth phase.
In addition to the CEO transition, the company disclosed the departure of Chief Financial Officer Thomas A. Houdek, effective June 20, 2025. Houdek, who has been with BJ’s since 2019, is leaving for a new opportunity outside the restaurant industry. Ottinger thanked Houdek for his contributions and wished him success in his new endeavors.
BJ’s Restaurants, founded in 1978, operates over 200 casual dining establishments across 31 states. The company is known for its diverse menu, craft brewing, and the Pizookie® dessert. It has received accolades for its beer and beverage programs and is recognized for its proprietary handcrafted beers.
This leadership announcement comes with the company’s forward-looking statements, highlighting its focus on growth and success in sales-building and productivity initiatives. However, the company acknowledges that these statements are subject to risks and uncertainties which may affect actual results.
Information for this article is based on a press release statement from BJ’s Restaurants, Inc.
In other recent news, BJ’s Restaurants reported notable financial results for the first quarter of 2025, exceeding earnings expectations. The company achieved earnings per share (EPS) of $0.59, surpassing the forecasted $0.36, and recorded revenue of $348 million, slightly above the anticipated $347.54 million. Jefferies raised its price target for BJ’s Restaurants stock to $44, maintaining a Buy rating, following the company’s strong same-store sales and margin improvements in the fourth quarter. The firm’s recent initiatives, such as the Pizookie Meal Deal and targeted marketing, have contributed to increased customer traffic and sales growth.
Benchmark analysts maintained a Hold rating on BJ’s Restaurants stock, noting improvements in operating margins and sustained same-store sales growth. The company’s restaurant-level operating margin of 16% outperformed consensus predictions, attributed to enhanced labor efficiency and sales leverage. BJ’s Restaurants also reported an adjusted EBITDA of $35.4 million, exceeding expectations and representing a 20% year-over-year increase. Despite these positive developments, Benchmark expressed caution due to ongoing uncertainty in the consumer macro environment.
BJ’s Restaurants raised its full-year guidance, projecting comparable restaurant sales growth of 2-3% and an operating profit between $210-$219 million. The company plans capital expenditures of $65-$75 million, focusing on restaurant infill strategies and operational improvements. Jefferies expressed confidence in BJ’s Restaurants’ potential for profitable growth, highlighting the company’s strong foundation and opportunities for further enhancement. Investors are likely to monitor BJ’s Restaurants’ progress as it continues to implement and expand upon successful strategies.
This article was generated with the support of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more information see our T&C.