At the recent Hospitality Stars of the Industry Gala, Don Fox, the former CEO of Firehouse Subs, was honored with the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association’s (FRLA) Lifetime Achievement Award. The ceremony took place at Sunseeker Resort in Charlotte Harbor after a delay caused by Hurricane Milton.
Carol Dover, President & CEO of FRLA, praised Fox’s contributions to the hospitality industry: “Don Fox is the embodiment of leadership, vision, and passion for the hospitality industry. His remarkable career has not only shaped Firehouse Subs into a household name but has also inspired countless professionals in our field through his focus on culture and mentoring.”
The Lifetime Achievement Award is a rare honor given to individuals who have significantly influenced Florida’s hospitality sector. “The FRLA has been a rewarding part of my professional journey,” said Don Fox upon receiving the award. “Receiving this award is a great honor, surpassed only by the value of the relationships forged among my peers.”
Fox retired from his role as CEO in early 2024 after guiding Firehouse Subs to record sales and its eventual acquisition by Restaurant Brands International. He has over 50 years of experience in the restaurant industry and served in various roles at Burger King Corporation before joining Firehouse Subs.
The FRLA is Florida’s leading non-profit trade association for the hospitality industry, with over 10,000 members ranging from independent operators to large franchises. The organization focuses on protecting and promoting Florida’s hospitality industry through advocacy and education initiatives.
