The Melt, a fast-casual eatery that combines chef-inspired, wholesome food with creative store design and innovative restaurant technologies, announced the hiring of Ralph Bower, former chief executive officer of the Pei Wei restaurant chain. The Melt former CEO and Founder Jonathan Kaplan will continue with the company as chairman.

The Melt is also continuing its nationwide expansion in 2016, opening the chain's first Texas location at Baybrook Mall in Houston. Three additional Houston locations are set to open before the end of 2017.

"We are thrilled that Ralph Bower has joined our team," said Kaplan. "Ralph has the experience, vision, leadership and knowledge of the industry to build on the successful foundation we created, including year-over-year double digit growth, a new cheeseburger and grilled cheese centric menu, and the national expansion of our restaurants."

An industry veteran with more than 25 years of senior-level leadership with the fast casual and quick service restaurant industry, Bower has extensive experience overseeing all aspects of operations for multimillion-dollar restaurant corporations. He's held leadership positions with a variety of brands including Pei Wei, Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, Yum! Brands, Inc., KFC Corporation and Domino's Pizza.

"Great restaurant companies start with great food and I believe The Melt has the best grilled cheese and cheeseburgers in the industry today," said Bower. "The Melt is at the forefront of the restaurant industry as a pioneer in the trend towards clean all-natural dining. I have greatly admired the brand from afar and look forward to growing The Melt into a national presence."

By the end of the year The Melt will have completed a store redesign that enhances the guest experience. The dining rooms of each store have been remodeled to a more comfortable setting providing flexible seating and a quieter dining environment. Technology-driven order kiosks have been added to provide guests with more ordering options and an enhanced order experience. To improve guest wait times, new video technology has been added to the kitchens of every store as well as kitchen equipment upgrades focused on product quality.