Biz News: Smart Utility Systems opens Irvine offices
Smart Utility Systems, which provides cloud-based platforms for the utility sector and its customers, has opened new offices in Irvine at 19900 MacArthur Blvd.
The opening of the new headquarters is expected to bring 200 jobs, the company said.
On Thursday, the company hosted a forum that included discussions on global water issues and energy sustainability.
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Potbelly Sandwich Shop eyes O.C.
Chicago-based Potbelly Sandwich Shop, known for toasted sandwiches and live music, plans to enter Orange County within the next year and is reviewing franchisee inquiries, the company said.
“Orange County has been pinpointed for expansion because of its strong mix of attractive residential and growing business communities, where the Potbelly experience will be appreciated as a mealtime hangout spot,” Niveen Saleh, a Potbelly representative, said in an email, mentioning Newport Beach and Irvine as focus areas.
A new restaurant will create more than 40 jobs, Saleh said.
It’s part of Potbelly’s franchise growth plan throughout California. The chain currently has more than 300 locations in five countries.
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Haskell gets Houzz awards
Haskell, a home-decor design firm in Eastside Costa Mesa, recently won awards from Houzz, a website that connects homeowners and home design enthusiasts with homebuilding, remodeling and design industry professionals.
Haskell was recognized in the Best of Houzz awards for design, customer service and photography, based on factors including the number and quality of reviews by its clients.
“Haskell has been enormously fortunate to have the exposure garnered from such an outstanding resource platform,” Andrew Stoneman, Haskell vice president of marketing, said in a statement. “Houzz continues to be a critical sales vehicle for us and is instrumental in our growth.”
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Waxing salon to unveil Costa Mesa shop
LunchBox, a waxing salon, will have a ribbon-cutting ceremony for its new Costa Mesa location on Feb. 4.
The event will be from 5 to 8 p.m. at the salon, 435 E. 17th St.
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Newport homebuilder RSI hires new CEO
RSI Communities LLC, a Newport Beach-based homebuilder, announced Todd Palmaer as its new president and chief executive.
Palmaer comes to RSI after working at Standard Pacific Homes, Lennar Homes and Greystone Homes, according to a news release.
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CapRock names new senior vice president
CapRock Partners, an Irvine-based commercial real estate investment firm, has appointed Bob O’Neill as its senior vice president of acquisitions, according to a news release.
O’Neill will help extend the company’s holdings across Southern California and into Phoenix, the company said.
“CapRock Partners is growing exponentially and we remain bullish on investing in well-located industrial and office projects throughout California and the southwestern U.S., especially as the stock and bond markets continue to fluctuate,” Jon Pharris, CapRock co-founder and president, said in a statement.