Hawaiian retailer ABC Stores hires former Gymboree exec David Cheong as CIO
David Cheong is starting a new position as Chief Information Officer at ABC Stores, which has more than 70 stores throughout the Hawaiian Islands, Guam, Saipan and Las Vegas.
His CV includes stints at Tate Technologies (Consulting Product Manager), World Wide Technology (Client Executive), Title Nine (Vice President of Technology), and Gymboree (Director of Retail Infrastructure).
Dave Blankenship
Dave Blankenship has announced his departure from Subway, where he spent five and a half years, joining from Marriott International as Chief Technology Officer before becoming Chief Information Officer in 2024.
A bio on Subway’s website notes that he has been “instrumental in advancing our technology pipeline, working closely with franchisees to deliver high performing technology solutions to help improve profitability and drive operational excellence in restaurants.”
In a LinkedIn post, Blankenship, who did not reveal his next move, said: "After more than five fantastic years, I have decided to transition out of Subway at the end of the year. It has been an incredible journey, and I am grateful to have worked alongside such talented teammates and dedicated franchisees who inspired me every day."
"Together, we made real progress by elevating the guest experience, strengthening operations, and moving the business forward in meaningful ways. I will always value the relationships, memories and lessons that shaped my time here, and I am excited to carry them into my next chapter."
He concluded: "Thank you to everyone who supported me along the way, especially the entire Subway technology team and our extraordinary leadership team. It was a privilege to lead and partner with such a committed and thoughtful group of people."
2025 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS
Physical stores were a key focus area at the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards.
We received a record number of entries and many fantastic examples of the continued resilience and dynamism of the retail space during hugely challenging times.
For a full rundown of all of the shortlisted entries, click here.
Our 2025 hall of fame entrants were revealed during a sold out event which took place at The HAC in Central London on 16th October and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by award winning comedian, actress and writer Tiff Stevenson.
In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “This is the awards’ fifth year as a physical event. We started off with just 30 people at the South Place Hotel not far from here, then moved to London Bridge Hotel, then The Barbican, and last year RIBA’s HQ in the West End.”
“But I’m conscious of the fact that, to quote the legend that is Taylor Swift, You’re only as hot as your last hit, baby. So, this year we’ve moved to our biggest venue yet, and also pulled in our largest number of entries to date and broken attendance records.”
He added: “This year’s submissions have without doubt been our best yet. To quote one of the judges: The examples of innovative developments across both traditional and digital retail spaces were truly remarkable.”
Congratulations to our winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Tiff Stevenson, and all those who attended our 2025 gathering.
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