Madison Culver’s owner-operator receives national award

Mike Hinesh honored with Franchisee Newcomer Award

MADISON – Mike Hinesh, who opened his first Culver’s restaurant in Madison in June 2020, is the recipient of the restaurant chain’s 2021 Franchisee Newcomer Award.

The award is presented annually to a new Culver’s franchisee who demonstrates a passion and commitment towards operational excellence, local restaurant marketing, community involvement and ongoing team development, while delivering consistent and exceptional guest experiences every day.

“Mike was one of our first franchisees to open during the pandemic,” said Dale Ballweg, vice president of operations at Culver’s, who announced Hinesh as the recipient at the Culver’s annual convention in Indianapolis, IN.” This brought a lot of uncertainty but he never wavered in his commitment to making sure our delicious food was served with our great Culver’s hospitality.”

“Due to Mike’s steadfast leadership that comes from his servant’s heart, he connects with his team on a level they respect,” added Ballweg.

One of the many examples of Hinesh’s community involvement cited during the award presentation was his work with the local schools where he provided free kids meals for all kids who were at home doing school virtually as a way to let them know Culver’s was thinking of them during a time when their lives were turned upside down. He also donated over 30 book bags filled with school supplies for those who needed them in the schools.

“With such a fantastic community and wonderful team it is easy to share Culver’s genuine hospitality and delicious food,” says Hinesh. “We do genuinely care! We are grateful for every day in which we get to spread smiles and kindness!”

About Culver’s:

For over 37 years, Culver’s guests have been treated to cooked-to-order food made with farm-fresh ingredients and served with a smile. The ever-expanding franchise system now numbers over 850 family-owned and operated restaurants in 25 states. The restaurants’ nationally recognized customer service is based on small-town, Midwestern values, genuine friendliness and an unwavering commitment to quality. Signature items include the award-winning ButterBurger, made from fresh, never frozen beef, and Fresh Frozen Custard, including the famous Flavor of the Day program. For more information, visit www.culvers.com, www.culvers.com/facebook, www.twitter.com/culvers or www.instagram.com/culvers.