Dallas’ Nothing Bundt Cakes Names Franchising Veteran as Chief Development Officer

Joel Larkin brings more than two decades of franchise development and operations expertise to his new role at Nothing Bundt Cakes.

Franchise development veteran Joel Larkin has been named chief development officer by Dallas-based Nothing Bundt Cakes, the nation’s largest specialty cake company. Larkin will lead the continued expansion of the fast-growing, 635-unit brand.

“Joel’s background is uniquely suited to the fast-paced growth we’re undertaking here at Nothing Bundt Cakes,” CEO Dolf Berle said in a statement. “He brings great technical expertise, wisdom, energy and enthusiasm to support our wonderful bakery owners and our entire support center team.”

Larkin brings more than two decades of franchise development and operations expertise to his new role at Nothing Bundt Cakes.

Most recently, he was chief franchise and development officer at European Wax Center, where he oversaw its expansion to more than 1,000 locations. He also held senior leadership positions at Victra and Select Communications.

At Nothing Bundt Cakes, Larkin will play a key role in helping the brand achieve its goal of opening its 1,000th bakery by 2027, the company said. Larkin will be responsible for identifying and supporting new franchise partners while enhancing resources for existing owners.

“What sets Nothing Bundt Cakes apart is its thoughtful approach to expansion that preserves the special connection our bakeries have with their communities,” Larkin said in a statement. “As the brand continues to grow at the fastest rate in its history, I plan to further strengthen our support infrastructure and leverage data-driven market planning to create exceptional opportunities for new and existing bakery owners.”

Founded in 1997, Nothing Bundt Cakes is the nation’s largest specialty cake company, with more than 635 franchised and corporate bakeries in 40-plus states and Canada.

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