McRib Quest Begins as Sandwich Returns to McDonald's Nationwide

Oakbrook, Ill  (Restaurant News Release)  Boneless pork and barbeque-sauce-loving fans have reason to rejoice today. For the second time in as many years, the McRib sandwich has returned nationwide to participating McDonald’s® restaurants through November 14, 2011.

The McRib – a boneless pork patty made from USDA inspected quality boneless pork, topped with slivered onions, sliced dill pickles, a signature barbeque sauce on a toasted home-style bun – is renowned for its elusive quality, inspiring a McRib Locator, several online petitions for its return and countless pop-culture references.

In 2010, the McRib returned to McDonald’s nationally for the first time in 16 years, sparking a 4.8 percent U.S. sales increase in November. It was this sales spike that best showcased the passion consumers exhibit for this elusive sandwich, which ultimately drove McDonald’s to return the McRib to the menu once again as a limited-time offer.

“The McRib has an enthusiastic and dedicated fan base,” said Marta Fearon, McDonald’s U.S. marketing director. “And we thank those customers for contributing to our decision to bring back the McRib nationwide in 2011. At this time, we can’t speculate on its return in the future but we hope McRib fans will enjoy it now while it lasts.”

The Quest for the Golden McRib

The Quest has begun! McDonald’s today launched “The Quest for the Golden McRib” digital game, which challenges consumers’ wits, smarts and most of all, love for the glorious McRib. To play The Quest, consumers should visit McDonald’s Facebook page.

Along the journey of discovery, a cast of “weirdly wonderful” characters – including Barbeque-Loving Unicorns, Emo Pilgrims, and Viking Accountants, among others – offer riddles and challenges that lead to the whereabouts of the 10 online Golden McRib sandwiches hid virtually in cyberspace. Participants who succeed in their quest could earn digital badges. A live leader-board will showcase “The Quest for the Golden McRib” top scores.

For more information about “The Quest for the Golden McRib” visit McDonald’s Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/McDonalds.

About McDonald’s

McDonald’s USA, LLC, is the leading foodservice provider in the United States serving a variety of wholesome food made from quality ingredients to more than 26 million customers every day. Nearly 90 percent of McDonald’s 14,000 U.S. restaurants are independently owned and operated by local business men and women. Customers can now log online for free at any of the 11,000 participating Wi-Fi enabled McDonald’s U.S. restaurants. For more information, visit www.mcdonalds.com, or follow us on Twitter (@McDonalds) and Facebook (Facebook.com/McDonalds) for updates on our business, promotions and products.

SAN ANTONIO  (Restaurant News Release)  The Whataburger Patty Melt. The Chop House Cheddar Burger. The Honey BBQ Chicken Strip Sandwich. And yes indeed, the A.1. Thick & Hearty Burger. Whataburger’s most beloved menu items have never before shared the spotlight, each reigning supreme for a limited time only before taking a bow and letting the next shine on center stage. But no more.

The four beloved sandwiches will appear all day, every day, side-by-side on Whataburger’s new All-Time Favorites menu. The only question for Whataburger fans now is: how to pick just one?

“Our All-Time Favorites menu brings together the legends, the items that we hear about from our customers all year long,” said Rich Scheffler, Whataburger Group Director of Marketing. “In our restaurants, in email, on Facebook and Twitter, our customers ask: when are these favorites coming back and why don’t we have them every day? This menu is, without a doubt, for them.”

A.1. Thick & Hearty Burger

The news couldn’t be better for fans of the A.1. Thick & Hearty. Retired in 2009, fans have never stopped campaigning for its return. The burger, first introduced in 1998, features two fresh, never-frozen, 100 percent American beef patties, topped with bacon, cheese, grilled onions, and of course A.1. Thick & Hearty Steak Sauce, served on Whataburger’s signature five-inch bun. It boasts its own fan club, Facebook page and support group. One Facebook fan described the burger’s retirement as “the end of the world.”

Whataburger promised its customers that it would reconsider its decision if the company saw an overwhelming response from customers to save it – and it has.

“We couldn’t deny these devoted fans any longer,” said Scheffler.

Whataburger Patty Melt

So popular that is has its very own Facebook page, the Patty Melt was first introduced as a limited-time menu item in July 2008. Its crowd-pleasing status is evident on the customer-created Facebook page, which includes comments such as, “If I were stranded on a desert island, and could have only one food, it would be you.”

The Patty Melt is made with two fresh, never-frozen American beef patties, two slices of Monterey Jack cheese, grilled onions, and Whataburger’s famous Creamy Pepper Sauce, served between two thick slices of signature Texas Toast.

When the sandwich last vanished from the menu, a fan posted a eulogy stating, “It’s a sad day in America, we lost something near and dear to our hearts.”

Honey BBQ Chicken Strip Sandwich

The Honey BBQ Chicken Strip Sandwich, first introduced in 2003, is “given to us by the fast food gods,” according to Kimmie T. on Yelp. Featuring three crispy chicken strips and two slices of Monterey Jack cheese, customers can choose to have the sandwich on Whataburger’s classic 5-inch bun or bold Texas Toast.

The real reason for the cravings, though, is the Honey BBQ Sauce. “It’s classic, it’s tangy, it’s sweet,” notes a Whataburger team member in the upcoming ad about the sandwich. A customer confirms the sentiment, noting: “I love the sauce, you can’t find it anywhere else.”

Chop House Cheddar Burger

The newest kid on the block is the Chop House Cheddar Burger. Introduced in 2009, it’s made with two 100 percent fresh, never-frozen, American beef patties grilled to perfection, topped with grilled onions, melted shredded cheddar cheese, two slices of crispy bacon and creamy steak sauce on a fresh, toasted five-inch bun. When the Chop House returns each year, one Facebook fan says “the quality of life instantly improves.”

The addition of the All-Time Favorites menu directly ties into Whataburger’s recently announced new advertising campaign, launching this week, which focuses its attention on the pride Whataburger has for its freshly-prepared menu offerings, its customers and employees. In the campaign, Whataburger fans and employees share their personal connections to the burger icon’s craveable menu.

Whataburger will feature the sandwiches on its menu indefinitely at each of its 700-plus locations. The four All-Time Favorites are available in junior size.

About Whataburger

Whataburger has focused on its fresh, never frozen, made-to-order burgers and friendly customer service since 1950 when Harmon Dobson opened the first Whataburger as a small roadside burger stand in Corpus Christi, Texas. Dobson gave his restaurant a name he hoped to hear customers say every time they took a bite of his made-to-order burgers: “What a burger!” Within the first week, people lined up around the block for his 25 cent, all-American beef burgers served on five-inch buns. Today, the company is headquartered in San Antonio, Texas, with more than 700 locations in 10 states with sales of more than $1 billion annually. Visit www.whataburger.com for more information on the company. Become a fan on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/whataburger and follow the brand on Twitter @Whataburger.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla.  (Restaurant News Release)  Original BUBBA burger Grill®, the new restaurant chain by America’s #1 selling retail burger brand — BUBBA burger®, has signed an agreement with PepsiCo for exclusive beverage pouring rights in its restaurant locations.

“We are excited to have PepsiCo products in our new BUBBA burger Grill® locations and look forward to a strong partnership as we grow across the country,” said Billy Morris, president of BUBBA burger Grill®.  ”There are numerous synergies between the Pepsi and the BUBBA burger brands and we plan to work together in our restaurants as well as in retail stores to drive growth for both brands.”

“We are excited to partner with BUBBA burger Grill, since nothing goes better with a tasty burger than an ice-cold beverage from PepsiCo,” said Tom Shull, VP Foodservice South Business Unit. “As one of Florida’s newest restaurant chains, we look forward to partnering with their team as they grow their business.”

As part of the agreement, BUBBA burger Grill® restaurants will offer Pepsi fountain products as well as bottled brands to serve both dine-in and carry out guests.

For more information on BUBBA burger Grill® visit www.bubbaburgergrill.com or at BUBBA burger Grill on Facebook®.

About BUBBA burger®

The BUBBA burger® is America’s #1 selling retail branded burger. The BUBBA burger® is made from 100% Choice Chuck and our Turkey BUBBA burger is 100% Natural All White turkey. Find them in your local grocer’s freezer nationwide!  Remember, Bubba says, “You’ll Never Bite A Burger Better Than A BUBBA! ™” For more information on BUBBA burger® visit the website at www.bubbafoods.com or check out The Official BUBBA burger Fan Page on Facebook®.

CONROE, Texas  (Restaurant News Release)  Dickey’s Barbecue Pit, the fastest growing barbecue restaurant in the country, will host its grand opening event in Conroe on October 13 at 1418 N. Loop 336 West.

“This will be a lively celebration with the community to support the culmination of all of our hard work over the past few months. We are thrilled to bring Dickey’s Barbecue to the people of Conroe,” said Franchise Owner Randy Taylor, who opened the restaurant with his wife, Joni.

The Texas-based barbecue chain will hold its grand opening from 11-1 p.m. with $1 pulled pork sandwiches and three giveaways for free barbecue for a year.

“I can’t wait for the Conroe community to come out and experience Dickey’s Barbecue for themselves. There’s something for everyone and with the extensive catering menu, we hope to reach out to the community in a powerful way,” Randy said.

This is the first franchise opportunity for the couple.

Dickey’s began franchising in 1994 and now has 177 locations in 38 states.

The original location is still open for business, and Dickey’s Barbecue is owned and operated by the Dickey Family.

Committed to exceptional quality at an affordable price, Dickey’s still slow smokes all of its signature meats overnight in every restaurant.

About Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants

Founded in 1941, Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants began in Dallas, Texas. More than 70 years later, Dickey’s is now the fastest growing barbecue chain in the country. Beginning with an aggressive growth strategy and proven business model, and since implementing its proprietary five revenue streams for business growth, Dickey’s is on track to become the largest barbecue chain in the country by the end of 2011. Currently, Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants can be found in more than 35 states and 175 locations nationwide. For more information on partnering with Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants in any location, call (866) 340-6188 or visit www.dickeys.com. Dickey’s: Passionate about the Art of Great Barbecue.

Media Contact:
Amy Vercher
972-248-9899
avercher@dickeys.com

ATLANTA  (Restaurant News Release)  Pretzelmaker, the second largest soft pretzel concept in the United States, announced today that it is marking 20 years of freshly baked soft pretzels and innovative pretzel products by hosting a special Birthday Bites celebration* at participating stores across the country. All day on October 20th, the company will treat customers who share the brand’s birthday month of October to a FREE order of Birthday Bites – the company’s signature bite-sized salted pretzel snack.

To receive their Birthday Bites, all customers need to do is present a form of printed ID, such as a driver’s license, birth certificate or school ID, which includes their name and birth date. Pretzelmaker is managed by GFG Management, LLC, a subsidiary of Global Franchise Group.

“Our customers have been such a large part of our success and hosting this coast to coast birthday party is our way of thanking them for their loyalty,” said Julie-Ann Reid, Pretzelmaker brand director for GFG Management, LLC. “We’re looking forward to building on the heritage of quality and innovation that has made the Pretzelmaker brand a customer favorite over the past two decades.”

To stay up to date on all of Pretzelmaker’s new products and promotions, and get access to exclusive offers and discounts throughout the year, customers can join Pretzelmaker’s e-mail fan club at www.pretzelmaker.com and become a fan of the brand on Facebook® (www.facebook.com/pretzelmaker).

*Limit one offer per guest during the day of the promotion. Counts vary by store. No cash value.

About Pretzelmaker® (www.pretzelmaker.com)

Since 1991, Pretzelmaker has specialized in serving fresh baked, hand-rolled soft pretzel products, dipping sauces and beverages. Long recognized as an innovator in their industry, the brand is credited with inventing the popular Pretzel Dog, Mini Pretzel Dogs, and the portable Pretzel Bites. Following integration in 2010, the Pretzelmaker brand now also includes Pretzel Time®. Pretzelmaker is currently the second largest soft pretzel concept in the United States and is also rapidly expanding worldwide with locations in Canada, Guam and Mexico.

About Global Franchise Group, LLC (www.globalfranchise.com)

Global Franchise Group, LLC is a strategic brand management company with a focus on franchising. The company owns a portfolio of franchise brands that includes four quick service restaurant (QSR) franchise concepts: Great American Cookies®, MaggieMoo’s®, Marble Slab Creamery®, Pretzelmaker® as well as two retail franchise concepts: TAF® and Shoebox New York®. The brands are managed by GFG Management, LLC, a subsidiary of Global Franchise Group, LLC. Global Franchise Group, LLC is an affiliate of Levine Leichtman Capital Partners, an independent investment firm, with $5 billion of capital under management and substantial franchise management experience.

ATLANTA  (Restaurant News Release)  Continuing its long history of giving back to the community, Little Caesars® Pizza restaurants in the Atlanta area are partnering with Children’s Miracle Network and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta with a Miracle Balloon drive at participating locations. “Little Caesars is not only committed to providing great value, quality and convenience to our customers, but also to supporting our communities. We look forward to making a difference and helping children,” said Little Caesars Marketing Manager, Christopher Vasquez.

Throughout the month of October, Miracle Balloons will be available for purchase in Little Caesars locations for $1. One hundred percent of the proceeds will directly benefit the Children’s Miracle Network at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.

Sharon Robinson, manager, Children’s Miracle Network at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta said, “We are grateful for the partnership with Little Caesars and their desire to support the patients and families at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.  All funds raised will directly benefit trauma services at Children’s — helping ensure that patients receive the highly specialized treatment they need — when they need it.”

Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals raise funds for 170 children’s hospitals across North America, which, in turn, use the money where it’s needed the most. As of 2011, Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals has raised more than $4.3 billion — most of which is donated a dollar or two at a time.

The Atlanta area Little Caesars stores have partnered with Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta in the past to bring children from the hospitals, and their families, to the Monster Jam event at the Georgia Dome, as well as various local school community programs throughout the year.

Log onto www.littlecaesars.com to find your local Little Caesars location.

About Little Caesars

Some of the menu items the Atlanta area Little Caesars stores feature include HOT-N-READY® Pizza, Crazy Bread®, Caesar Wings® and Caesar Dips®.

Little Caesars Pizza founders Michael and Marian Ilitch opened their first restaurant in Garden City, Michigan in 1959. Little Caesars added more stores in the world in 2010 than any other pizza chain and today is the largest carry-out chain internationally with restaurants on four continents. Little Caesars is growing in prime markets across the country, and is offering strong franchisee candidates an opportunity for independence with a proven system. In addition, Little Caesars offers strong brand awareness with one of the most recognized and appealing characters in the country, Little Caesar.

In addition to Little Caesars Pizza, Mike and Marian Ilitch’s companies in the food, sports and entertainment industries include: the Detroit Red Wings, Olympia Entertainment, Olympia Development, Blue Line Foodservice Distribution, Champion Foods, Ilitch Holdings, Inc., Uptown Entertainment, Little Caesars Pizza Kit Fundraising Program, and a variety of venues within these entities. Michael Ilitch owns the Detroit Tigers. Marian Ilitch owns MotorCity Casino Hotel.

For more information about Little Caesars and available franchise opportunities, visit www.LittleCaesars.com or call 1.800.553.5776.

* “Highest-Rated Chain – Value for the Money” based on a nationwide survey of quick-service restaurant consumers conducted by Sandelman & Associates, 2010

Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta

Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, a not-for-profit organization, is committed to enhancing the lives of children through excellence in patient care, research and education. Managing more than half a million patient visits annually at three hospitals and 17 neighborhood locations, Children’s is one of the largest clinical care providers for children in the country. Children’s offers access to more than 30 pediatric specialties and is ranked among the top children’s hospitals by Parents magazine and U.S. News & World Report. With generous philanthropic and volunteer support, Children’s has made an impact in the lives of children in Georgia, the United States and throughout the world. Visit www.choa.org for more information.