The economy’s continued decline and the rise in unemployment among young adults is bringing special offers and value deals back to many fast food chains. Restaurant traffic is dropping drastically for even big name brands, and chains are rolling out special deals to bring the numbers back up. For example, Subway is making all foot long subs available for $5 starting in October.
Wendy’s has re-invented their classic burger to make it even better. The new Dave’s Hot ‘N Juicy Cheeseburger features two patties made from fresh beef, and toppings like fresh lettuce and red onion on a buttered, toasted bun. The shape of the patties remains square, but the rest of the burger has been upgraded.
Popeyes is debuting their fourth, limited-time only promotion for the year. The Dip’n Chick’n comes with a Cajun-inspired Blackened Ranch dipping sauce and features Popeyes signature fresh chicken breast. The promotion will give customers an order of Dip’n Chick’n, fries, a biscuit and dipping sauce for $3.99.
Alcoholic beverages offer a high profit margin to chain restaurants, but local and county restrictions make it hard to make thousands of locations compliant with the law. The higher cost of a drink also doesn’t appeal to value-menu diners. Storing the alcohol and training staff to check ID also complicates the matter.
Domino’s is expanding their menu by adding three new Artisan flavor combinations. The high-quality Tuscan Salami & Roasted Veggie, Spinach & Feta and Italian Sausage & Pepper toppings are laid over a square, hand-tossed crust. Domino’s is promoting the new pizzas through television ads and suggestions on their online ordering apps.
Thomas Monaghan may be 74, but he isn’t letting his age slow him down. After founding Domino’s and Ave Maria University, he’s designing a new gourmet burger brand. His brand will feature delivery, something no burger brand currently offers. He hopes to put any profits made by the new business into the growth of Ave Maria University.
CEC Entertainment, the parent company of Chuck E. Cheese’s, has given Scott McDaniel two new executive titles. He’ll be the Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer for Chuck E. Cheese’s and will be responsible for all marketing, showroom promotions, guest relations and other related issues.
Ling & Louie’s Asian Bar & Grill is celebrating Oktoberfest in an unusual way. The “Woktoberfest” will combine the beer and bratwurst of the German festival and combine it with fresh Asian flavors. Dishes like Wokin’ Hot Brats will be served with Widmer Brothers beer. The chain will also give away a trip to Portland as well.
CiCi’s Pizza has hired Publicis Dallas as their agency of record as part of their dedication to the “Build the Brand” campaign. Within the next decade the chain hopes to increase the total number of restaurants by 100 or more. The campaign will include a $26 million promotional account that Publicis will handle.
Dickey’s Barbecue Pit is expanding their chain again in North Texas. The new location is located in Garland and is under the control of local franchisee Kevin Tran. This is the first franchise location for Tran. The chain is hoping to have 200 total locations by the end of the year.