Pinkberry Names Leading Retail Expert Betsy McLaughlin to Board of Directors

Former CEO of Hot Topic Inc. serves up retail expertise and a proven track record to rapidly expanding yogurt company

News provided by

Mar 07, 2012, 08:00 ET

LOS ANGELES, March 7, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Pinkberry announced today that leading retail executive Betsy McLaughlin is joining the company's board of directors, along-side other successful business leaders.

McLaughlin has served as CEO of Hot Topic Inc. Under McLaughlin's leadership, Hot Topic grew from 190 stores in 1993 to more than 800 stores in 50 states and Puerto Rico.

McLaughlin joins a Board of Directors that includes:

Howard Schultz – CEO, Starbucks
Dan Levitan – Co-founder and Partner, Maveron
Ted Philip – Managing General Partner, Highland Consumer Fund
Michael Casey – Retired CFO, Starbucks
Shelly Hwang – Co-founder, Pinkberry
Ron Graves – CEO, Pinkberry

"The arrival of Betsy McLaughlin to our Board adds yet another layer of retailing strength at a critical time for us as we continue to leverage our unprecedented growth and commitment to innovation," said Ron Graves, CEO Pinkberry. "We are fortunate to have assembled a Board that has unparalleled experience in the areas that matter most to us: customer experience, category innovation and global retail growth."

McLaughlin's career highlights at Hot Topic Inc. included being named to Forbes "200 Hot Companies" and Fortune's "100 Best Companies to Work for", #1 on Forbes list of "Most Trustworthy Retailers" and named by Fast Company as one of the "Most Innovative Companies".

"I am excited to join a great brand with an inspired team and knowledgeable board. I look forward to supporting Ron and his team as they continue to innovate and lead the category for years to come," said McLaughlin.

Prior to Hot Topic, McLaughlin held positions in merchandising, operations and finance at Miller's Outpost and The Broadway. She served as a director on the Hot Topic board for 12 years, and up through January 2011, was on the board at Noodles & Co. McLaughlin has a B.A. degree in Economics from the University of California at Irvine and is a member of the Board of Visitors for the UCLA Anderson School.

About Pinkberry

Pinkberry is an innovative yogurt retailer that launched in West Hollywood, CA, in 2005. Today, with more than 175 stores worldwide, Pinkberry is one of the world's fastest growing global retail brands and continues to lead the frozen yogurt category. Pinkberry's yogurt flavors, paired with fresh-cut-daily fruit and premium toppings offer an irresistible light and refreshing taste.

Pinkberry is a one-of-a-kind experience comprised of distinct product, outstanding service and inspirational design. From store design to engaging team members to delicious yogurt flavors and toppings Pinkberry delivers an experience that delights and refreshes consumers.

Pinkberry is certified by the National Yogurt Association and carries the Live & Active Cultures Seal. Visit us at http://www.pinkberry.com and on Facebook (www.facebook.com/pinkberry) and Twitter (@pinkberry).

SOURCE Pinkberry