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  4. [8-K] Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. Reports Material Event

Al Harper takes interim CEO role at Rocky Mountain Chocolate (Nasdaq: RMCF)

Filing Impact
(Moderate)
Filing Sentiment
(Neutral)
Form Type
8-K

Rhea-AI Filing Summary

Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. appointed former Board member Al (Allen C.) Harper as Interim Chief Executive Officer and Principal Executive Officer, effective immediately, for a 180-day term. The Board stated it does not anticipate changes to the company’s strategic direction or day-to-day operations as a result of this leadership transition.

The company highlighted Mr. Harper’s prior service on its Board, his experience with franchised businesses and consumer brands, and his longstanding connection to the Durango community. Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory and its franchisees and licensees operate over 250 branded stores across the United States, with several international locations.

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Insights

RMCF installs an experienced former director as interim CEO for 180 days while affirming its current strategy.

Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory appointed former Board member Al Harper as Interim Chief Executive Officer and Principal Executive Officer for a 180-day term, effective immediately. The company emphasizes his experience in franchising, consumer brands and public-company leadership.

Management and the Board state they do not expect changes to strategic priorities or day-to-day operations, signaling a continuity approach during this transition. The interim structure suggests a defined window for leadership evaluation or a potential longer-term decision, though no further details are provided in this disclosure.

Item 8.01 Other Events Other
Voluntary disclosure of events the company deems important to shareholders but not covered by other items.
Item 9.01 Financial Statements and Exhibits Exhibits
Financial statements, pro forma financial information, and exhibit attachments filed with this report.
Interim CEO term 180 days Al Harper’s appointment as Interim Chief Executive Officer
Store count over 250 stores Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory and its franchisees and licensees
Founding era since 1981 Company producing premium chocolates and confectionery products
Interim Chief Executive Officer financial
"announced the appointment of former Board member, Al Harper, as Interim Chief Executive Officer and Principal Executive Officer"
An interim chief executive officer is a temporary leader appointed to run a company while the board searches for a permanent CEO or manages an unexpected departure. Investors pay attention because this person shapes near-term strategy, stability and market confidence—like a substitute driver steering the car until the regular driver returns—and their actions and credibility can influence share price, hiring and major deals.
Principal Executive Officer financial
"appointment of former Board member, Al Harper, as Interim Chief Executive Officer and Principal Executive Officer for a 180-day term"
The principal executive officer is the highest-ranking manager who leads a company’s overall strategy, operations and public communication—often acting like the captain of a ship who sets direction and makes final calls. Investors watch this person because their decisions, credibility and ability to deliver results shape company performance, risk and market confidence, and changes in that role can directly affect stock value and corporate accountability.
forward-looking statements regulatory
"This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995"
Forward-looking statements are predictions or plans that companies share about what they expect to happen in the future, like estimating sales or profits. They matter because they help investors understand a company's outlook, but since they are based on guesses and assumptions, they can sometimes be wrong.
Franchise 500 financial
"Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory is ranked among Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500 for 2026"
An annual ranking of franchise systems that evaluates factors like size, growth, financial stability and franchisee support, serving as a widely cited industry “best-of” list. Investors use it as a quick signal of a franchisor’s market strength and credibility—similar to a consumer choosing a restaurant from a trusted guide—because a high placement can indicate easier expansion, stronger brand recognition and potentially lower investment risk compared with unranked competitors.
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FAQ

What leadership change did Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory (RMCF) announce?
Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory appointed former Board member Al Harper as Interim Chief Executive Officer and Principal Executive Officer for a 180-day term, effective immediately. The company expects no changes to its strategic direction or day-to-day operations due to this transition.

How long will Al Harper serve as interim CEO of RMCF?
Al Harper is expected to serve as Interim Chief Executive Officer and Principal Executive Officer for a 180-day term. This defined period provides a structured timeframe for his leadership while the company continues executing its existing strategic priorities and supporting franchisees.

Does RMCF expect strategic changes following Al Harper’s appointment?
The company states it does not anticipate any changes to its strategic direction or day-to-day operations as a result of Al Harper’s appointment. Management and the Board emphasize continued focus on strategic priorities, franchisee support, and long-term shareholder value.

What experience does Al Harper bring to Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory?
Al Harper is described as a seasoned executive with extensive experience in franchised businesses, consumer brands, and publicly traded companies. He previously served on Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory’s Board, giving him familiarity with the company’s business, franchise system, and Durango community ties.

How large is Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory’s store footprint?
Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory and its franchisees and licensees operate over 250 branded Rocky Mountain Chocolate stores across the United States, along with several international locations. This network supports distribution of the company’s premium chocolates and confectionery products.

What does RMCF say about forward-looking statements in this announcement?
The company notes the press release contains forward-looking statements about leadership transition, strategic priorities, operations, and future performance. These statements involve risks and uncertainties described in its SEC filings, and the company undertakes no obligation to update them except as required by law.
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UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

FORM 8-K

 

CURRENT REPORT

 

Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

Date of Report (Date of earliest event reported): June 30, 2026

 

 

Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

Delaware   001-36865   47-1535633
(State or other jurisdiction
of incorporation		   (Commission File Number   (IRS Employer
Identification No.)

 

265 Turner Drive

Durango, Colorado 81303

(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)

 

(970) 259-0554

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code:

 

N/A

(Former name or former address, if changed since last report.)

 

Check the appropriate box below if the Form 8-K filing is intended to simultaneously satisfy the filing obligation of the registrant under any of the following provisions:

 

☐ Written communications pursuant to Rule 425 under the Securities Act (17 CFR 230.425)
   
☐ Soliciting material pursuant to Rule 14a-12 under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14a -12)
   
☐ Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 14d-2(b) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14d-2(b))
   
☐ Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 13e-4(c) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.13e -4(c))

 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

 

Title of each class   Trading Symbol   Name of each exchange on which registered
Common Stock, $0.001 par value per share   RMCF   Nasdaq Capital Market  

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an emerging growth company as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act of 1933 (§230.405 of this chapter) or Rule 12b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (§240.12b -2 of this chapter).

 

Emerging growth company ☐

 

If an emerging growth company, indicate by checkmark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐

 

 

 

 

 

Item 8.01 Other Events.

 

On June 30, 2026, Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. (the “Company”), announced the appointment of Allen C. Harper as Interim Chief Executive Officer and Principal Executive Officer of the Company.

 

A copy of the press release is attached hereto as Exhibit 99.1 and is incorporated herein by reference.

 

Item 9.01 Financial Statements and Exhibits.

 

(d) Exhibits

 

Exhibit
Number		   Description
99.1   Press Release of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., dated as of June 30, 2026.
104   Cover Page Interactive Data File (embedded within the Inline XBRL document)

 

1

 

SIGNATURES

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned hereunto duly authorized.

 

Date: June 30, 2026 ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.
     
  By: /s/ Carrie Cass
    Carrie Cass
    Chief Financial Officer

 

2

 

Exhibit 99.1

 

 

Source: Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc.
June 30, 2026 09:00 ET

 

Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory Appoints Al Harper as Interim Chief Executive Officer and Principal Executive Officer

 

DURANGO, Colo., June 30, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. (Nasdaq: RMCF) (the “Company” or “RMCF”), America’s Chocolatier® since 1981, today announced the appointment of former Board member, Al Harper, as Interim Chief Executive Officer and Principal Executive Officer for a 180-day term, effective immediately.

 

The Board and Executive Leadership Team remain committed to executing the Company’s strategic priorities, supporting franchisees, strengthening operations, and creating long-term value for shareholders. The Company does not anticipate any changes to its strategic direction or day to day operations as a result of this leadership transition.

 

“We are pleased to welcome Al Harper as Interim Chief Executive Officer,” said Mel Keating, Chairman of the Board of Directors. “Al brings decades of executive leadership experience, a deep understanding of franchising and consumer brands, and a long-standing connection to Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory and the Durango community. Having previously served on our Board of Directors, he understands our business, franchise system and opportunities for growth. The Board has full confidence in Al’s ability to lead the Company through this next phase. We remain committed to supporting our franchisees, employees, shareholders and guests while continuing to execute our strategic priorities.”

 

“I am honored by the Board’s confidence and grateful for the opportunity to serve Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory during this important time,” said Mr. Harper. “Our focus remains on supporting our franchisees and employees, delivering exceptional products and experiences for our guests and executing the Company’s strategic priorities. I look forward to working alongside our talented leadership team, franchise partners and Board of Directors as we continue building on the momentum across our business.”

 

About Al Harper

 

Al Harper is a seasoned executive with extensive leadership experience across franchised businesses, consumer brands, and publicly traded companies. Throughout his career, he has served as a chief executive officer, board member and strategic advisor, helping organizations strengthen operations, drive sustainable growth and create long term shareholder value. Mr. Harper previously served on the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory Board of Directors and brings a deep understanding of the Company’s business, franchise system and long-standing commitment to the Durango community.

 

 

 

About Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc.

 

Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. is a leading franchisor of premium chocolate and confectionary retail store concept. As America’s Chocolatier®, the Company has been producing an extensive line of premium chocolates and other confectionery products, including gourmet caramel apples since 1981. Headquartered in Durango, Colorado, Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory is ranked among Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500® for 2026. The Company and its franchisees and licensees operate over 250 Rocky Mountain Chocolate stores across the United States, with several international locations. The Company’s common stock is listed on the Nasdaq Global Market under the symbol “RMCF.”

 

Forward-Looking Statements

 

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements regarding the Company’s leadership transition, strategic priorities, business operations, and future performance. These statements are based on management’s current expectations and are subject to risks, uncertainties, and assumptions that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied. These risks and uncertainties are described in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its most recent Annual Report on Form 10 K and subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10 Q. The Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements except as required by law.

 

Investor Contact

 

Sean Mansouri, CFA

Elevate IR

(720) 330-2829

RMCF@elevate-ir.com

 

Media Contact

 

Raymond Barrett

Director of Marketing

(305) 801-5641

rba rrett@rmcf.net

 

 

 

Source: View Original Filing on SEC EDGAR

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