Kat Cole turned around Cinnabon Inc. by focusing on brand expansion, menu innovation, and operational efficiency. She expanded Cinnabon’s reach beyond malls by partnering with big names like Pillsbury and Kellogg’s, bringing Cinnabon products into grocery stores.
To attract more customers, Cole introduced new menu items. This included adding syrups, sprinkles, and creamer to the product line. These new offerings kept the brand fresh and appealing.
Cole also spent a lot of time in franchise locations. She learned from employees and identified areas for improvement. She focused on what processes or products were not adding value and what opportunities might be missed.
Recognizing the emotional connection customers had with Cinnabon, Cole ensured a consistent brand experience across all locations and products. This strong emotional tie helped to drive growth.
Through these strategies, combined with her leadership, Cole successfully transformed Cinnabon into a $1 billion brand during her time as President.