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Tom Ryan: The Secret Ingredient to Fast Food Hits
18 Nov
Summary
- Ryan invented Pizza Hut's stuffed crust, a massive commercial success.
- He created iconic McDonald's items like McGriddle and McFlurry.
- He co-founded Smashburger, later sold to Jollibee for $445 million.
Tom Ryan, armed with a doctorate in flavor chemistry, transformed the fast-food landscape. His early career at Pizza Hut saw the birth of the immensely popular stuffed crust pizza, a product that boosted overall sales and generated over $1 billion in its first year. Ryan's innovative spirit also led to other popular items like breadsticks and chicken wings.
Recruited by McDonald's, Ryan's genius was applied to breakfast menus, resulting in the creation of the McGriddle. He also enhanced existing offerings, like the fruit-and-yogurt parfait, and introduced the McFlurry and the value-driving Dollar Menu to U.S. markets.
Beyond these giants, Ryan co-founded Smashburger, which expanded to over 360 locations and was recognized for its growth. The chain's sale to Jollibee for more than $445 million highlighted its success. Ryan continues to shape the food industry through ventures like Tom's Urban and Tom's Watch Bar.
