EARL OF SANDWICH LYNETTE MCKEE RECEIVES TOP HONOR FROM FRANCHISE INDUSTRY

VP of Franchising for Earl of Sandwich Wins "Crystal Compass"

Lynette McKee, vice president of franchising for the fast-casual concept Earl of Sandwich, was awarded the esteemed "Crystal Compass" by the Women's Franchise Committee of the International franchise Association (IFA). The "Crystal Compass" is bestowed upon an individual within the franchise community who epitomizes the ideals of leadership. Recipients have earned reputations for leadership by making significant contributions within their respective franchise organizations, the franchise community at large and in their local communities.

"I am thrilled and honored to receive the "Crystal Compass" from my peers," McKee said. "This acknowledgement strengthens my commitment as a leader in franchising to create opportunities and educational forums." McKee is an experienced Restaurant development professional who has represented such well-known brands as Burger King, Bennigan's, Steak and Ale, Ponderosa, Bonanza and Denny's. She is also active in the IFA and the Women's Franchise and Distribution Forum. She currently serves on the IFA-ICFE Board of Governors, the Women's Franchise Committee, the Minorities in Franchising Committee and the Convention Planning Task Force.

"Lynette is the perfect person to receive the "Crystal Compass"," said Jackie Adams, chair of the Women's Franchise Committee. "She is a leader in every sense of the word. Lynette has contributed greatly to franchising." McKee currently resides in Orlando with her husband, John. They have a son, Jason, who recently graduated from Stetson University.

About Earl of Sandwich

Founded in 2004, Earl of Sandwich is a collaboration between Earl, a pioneer of entertainment and celebrity-themed restaurants, and John Montagu, a direct descendant of the fourth Earl of Sandwich. More than 240 years after the creation of the sandwich, John Montagu, the 11th Earl of Sandwich, and his son Orlando, are re-inventing their culinary namesake.

The sandwich segment has seen tremendous growth since 2000, with U.S. sales growing from $13 billion to more than $17.3 billion in 2003, making the market ripe for a one-of-a-kind concept. Earl of Sandwich is drawing standing-room only crowds at its first location, which opened in March 2004 at the Walt Disney World Resort. A location in New York City is slated to open in the next few months, and plans to have 300 Franchises nationwide by 2008.