Winmark announces board changes with director departure and new appointment
Winmark Corporation (NASDAQ: WINA) announced that Lawrence A. Barbetta will not seek re-election to the company's board of directors at the April 2027 annual shareholders meeting, citing the company's independent director term limits. Barbetta joined the board in 2012 and serves on the audit committee.
The Minneapolis-based franchisor simultaneously appointed Stephanie S. Hoppe to its board of directors and to the compensation and nominating committees. Hoppe brings over 20 years of marketing and brand leadership experience in consumer, franchise, and multi-unit retail businesses.
Hoppe currently serves as vice president of omnichannel marketing at Casey's General Stores, Inc. (NASDAQ: CASY), a convenience store retailer operating in 19 Midwest and Southern states. Her previous experience includes senior marketing positions at Cicis Pizza and 7-Eleven.
"Larry Barbetta's service to Winmark since joining our Board has been significant and impactful," stated Brett D. Heffes, chair and chief executive officer. "He has brought an important perspective to our Board and Audit Committee discussions, grounded in his experience building and leading technology and analytics businesses."
Regarding the new appointment, Heffes said Hoppe's background in consumer engagement, data-driven marketing, omnichannel growth, and customer loyalty will benefit Winmark and its franchisees.
Winmark operates as a franchisor of resale retail concepts including Plato's Closet, Once Upon A Child, Play It Again Sports, Style Encore, and Music Go Round. As of March 28, 2026, the company had 1,383 franchises in operation with over 2,800 available territories, according to the press release statement.
