Restaurant Marketing Veteran Launches conneXsions to Connect Businesses with Growth Partners

Restaurant marketing veteran Chuck McAulay has launched conneXsions, a new company specializing in making strategic introductions that become growth catalysts for small and medium businesses. With over 30 years of experience working with major brands including Burger King, Bonefish Grill, AMF Bowling (now Bowlero), and Hard Rock Café International, McAulay brings extensive expertise to his role as conneXsions' Chief Catalyst Officer. This launch is significant for the Northern Virginia business community as it introduces a specialized service aimed at addressing common growth barriers faced by local restaurants and hospitality companies.

The company focuses on helping restaurants, hospitality and entertainment companies navigate the complex landscape of available solutions. McAulay stated, "Whether they're looking to streamline operations, enhance customer experience or drive growth, we connect our clients with partners who understand their specific needs and can deliver real results." Clients benefit from McAulay's skills as a storyteller and negotiator dedicated to building and personalizing brands to attract sought-after target markets. This approach matters because it provides local businesses with access to expertise typically reserved for larger corporations, potentially leveling the competitive playing field in a region known for its vibrant hospitality sector.

conneXsions' core specialty involves facilitating mutually beneficial partnerships between brands and the right vendors, platforms and tools to solve challenges and unlock new opportunities. The company enables vendor-to-vendor collaborations, serves as a start-up technology partner to assist with connections and innovation, and develops influencer marketing and brand ambassador programs. Additionally, conneXsions produces "grand happenings" including opening events and launches, while providing fractional support for projects when businesses need specialized expertise without full-time commitments. This model is particularly important for small to medium enterprises in Fairfax and Arlington counties that may lack the resources for dedicated business development staff but face increasing pressure to innovate and compete.

McAulay emphasized his guiding principle that meaningful connections deliver mutual value, noting that day-to-day business responsibilities often leave little time for longer-term thinking. "We help clients build the relationships they need to grow and thrive — one connection at a time," he explained. For more information, visit https://www.connexsions.com. McAulay's most recent position was vice president of marketing at The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill under the United Franchise Group umbrella, which operates in more than 80 countries. The implications of this new venture extend beyond individual business growth, potentially strengthening the entire Northern Virginia business ecosystem by creating more efficient connections between local companies and the resources they need to succeed in an increasingly competitive market.