TORONTO — Aegis Brands Inc. says Steven Pelton is stepping down as president and chief executive and as a director of the company earlier than expected to pursue another professional opportunity.
The company says Pelton’s departure after leading the company for seven years is effective immediately.
It had said in May that Pelton would be leaving, but that he would remain until his successor was appointed.
Aegis Brands owns and operates the St. Louis Bar & Grill restaurant brand and holds the master franchise for the Sweet Jesus ice cream brand in Canada.
The company says it is actively engaged in a search for a new CEO.
During the process, Aegis Brands says an executive management committee including chief financial officer Melinda Lee, chief operating office Chris Fountain and Tara Ramsay, vice-president people, will lead the day-to-day operations.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published June 29, 2026.
