SONIC® Drive-In launches new advertising campaign featuring comedic powerhouses Jane Krakowski and Ellie Kemper

Television and Film Stars and SONIC “Two Guys” collaborate in commercial spots

OKLAHOMA CITY, 2018-Mar-07 — /EPR Retail News/ — SONIC® Drive-In (NASDAQ: SONC) brings the laughter with the launch of a new take on its iconic advertising campaign featuring comedic powerhouses Jane Krakowski and Ellie Kemper. In collaboration with the iconic “Two Guys” – consisting of improvisational comedians Peter Grosz and T.J. Jagodowski – the two pairs will be showcased in TV and online advertising while enjoying one-of-a-kind SONIC menu items from the front seats of their cars.

“Jane and Ellie are the ideal pair to cast for this new chapter of the campaign with their strong representations of our brand personality and they bring a fresh female perspective,” said Lori Abou Habib, chief marketing officer for SONIC. “They exude the brand’s good-natured and fun-loving culture with their lively humor, in addition to being SONIC fans themselves. Jane and Ellie radiate authentic personalities ideal for the SONIC brand and audience.”

For more than a decade, the “Two Guys” have been synonymous with the brand’s amusing and energetic strategy to advertising. Krakowski and Kemper join the comedic, iconic campaign to mark an evolution of the SONIC commercials showcasing female comedians.

“Ellie and I have been the biggest fans of SONIC – and the hilarious commercials – for years. When we were presented with the opportunity to join a campaign that fully embraces comedy and improv, we knew right away this was going to be fun,” said Jane Krakowski. “We have always appreciated the comedy that Peter and TJ have brought to the SONIC ads and Ellie and I are honored to be the first female comedy duo to be in the SONIC car.”

The new commercial spots will feature upcoming SONIC products and promotions including the launch of the SONIC Signature Slingers, new cheeseburgers starting under 350 calories made with three simple ingredients: 100-percent pure beef blended with savory mushrooms and bold seasoning, becoming the first of its kind in fast food*.

“Joining the ranks of Peter and TJ feels momentous,” said Ellie Kemper. “Jane and I are so excited to share our take on a couple of friends hanging out at SONIC.”

Additionally, the spots will feature exciting new products throughout the summer and the SONIC Nights promotion, offering Half-Price Floats, Shakes and Ice Cream Slushes all made with SONIC’s Real Ice Cream, after 8 p.m. every day, starting today, March 5**.

*See menu for details
** For a limited time only at participating SONIC® locations. See menu for details.

About SONIC, America’s Drive-In

SONIC, America’s Drive-In is the nation’s largest drive-in restaurant chain serving approximately 3 million customers every day. Nearly 94 percent of SONIC’s 3,500 drive-in locations are owned and operated by local business men and women. For 64 years, SONIC has delighted guests with signature menu items, 1.3 million drink combinations and friendly service by iconic Carhops. Since the 2009 launch of SONIC’s Limeades for Learning philanthropic campaign in partnership with DonorsChoose.org, SONIC has donated $9.5 million to public school teachers nationwide to fund essential learning materials and innovative teaching resources to inspire creativity and learning in today’s youth. To learn more about Sonic Corp. (NASDAQ/NM: SONC), please visit sonicdrivein.com and please visit or follow us on Facebook and Twitter. To learn more about SONIC’s Limeades for Learning initiative, please visit LimeadesforLearning.com.

Contact:
Rebeka Mora
512-542-2804
Rebeka.Mora@Cohnwolfe.com

Source: SONIC

SONIC® Drive-In announces limited-time specials at great prices starting from $1.49

SONIC® Drive-In announces limited-time specials at great prices starting from $1.49

 

OKLAHOMA CITY, 2017-Nov-28 — /EPR Retail News/ — SONIC® Drive-In (NASDAQ: SONC) is easing holiday budgets this season by offering a variety of limited-time specials at great prices for guests to save on favorites. Guests may kick-off their morning with easy on-the-go Lil’ Breakfast Burritos for $1.49, enjoy the classic taste of The Double Feature™ for $3.99 or celebrate with buy one, get one free Boneless Wing every Thursday evening during Wing Night in America®.

More details on the holiday specials include:

  • Lil’ Breakfast Burritos – Helping with guest’s breakfast burrito craving in a smaller size is the new Bacon, Onion and Tomato Lil’ Breakfast Burrito, made with crispy bacon pieces, sliced tomato, and diced onions all over a fluffy egg, or the Cheesy Potato Lil’ Breakfast Burrito, filled with warm, melty cheese over an egg with golden crispy Tots, each for $1.49. With our full menu available all day, Lil’ Burritos are the perfect breakfast, lunch, dinner or snack anywhere in between.
  • The Double Feature – Offering classic SONIC items at an unbeatable value, The Double Feature gives guests high-quality bundle meal. The Double Feature is a fan-favorite SONIC Cheeseburger, made with melty American cheese, crinkle-cut pickles, chopped onions, fresh shredded lettuce & ripe tomatoes on a perfectly seasoned, 100% pure beef patty with your choice of mustard, mayo or ketchup, all paired with any small hand-mixed Classic or Master Shake, all for just $3.99.
  • Wing Night in America – With daring flavors like Honey BBQ, Asian Sweet Chili and Buffalo, the perfect Boneless Wings experience happens every Thursday from 5 p.m. to close with buy one, get one free Boneless Wings, for a limited time only.

“Great quality and convenience at a terrific value are important to our guests and to SONIC,” said Lori Abou Habib, chief marketing officer for SONIC. “With the hustle and bustle of the holiday planning, parties and events, Lil’ Burritos, The Double Feature and Wing Night in America offers our guests multiple ways to enjoy a delicious meal without breaking the bank.”

These one-of-a-kind values are only available for a limited time at any time of the day, so stop by your local SONIC Drive-In this holiday season for deals that will spread cheer with the whole family.

About SONIC®, America’s Drive-In®

SONIC, America’s Drive-In is the nation’s largest drive-in restaurant chain serving approximately 3 million customers every day. Nearly 94 percent of SONIC’s 3,500 drive-in locations are owned and operated by local business men and women. For 64 years, SONIC has delighted guests with signature menu items, 1.3 million drink combinations and friendly service by iconic Carhops. Since the 2009 launch of SONIC’s Limeades for Learning philanthropic campaign in partnership with DonorsChoose.org, SONIC has donated $9.5 million to public school teachers nationwide to fund essential learning materials and innovative teaching resources to inspire creativity and learning in today’s youth. To learn more about Sonic Corp. (NASDAQ/NM: SONC), please visit sonicdrivein.com and please visit or follow us on Facebook and Twitter. To learn more about SONIC’s Limeades for Learning initiative, please visit LimeadesforLearning.com.

Contact:
Rebeka Mora
512-542-2804
rebeka.mora@cohnwolfe.com

Source: SONIC Drive-In

###

SONIC holds annual Unturkey Day on November 21: offers Half-Price Cheeseburgers all day!

SONIC holds annual Unturkey Day on November 21: offers Half-Price Cheeseburgers all day!

 

SONIC Offers Guests Half-Price Cheeseburgers on November 21 for Annual Unturkey Day

OKLAHOMA CITY, 2017-Nov-21 — /EPR Retail News/ — In honor of the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday, SONIC Drive-In Chief Marketing Officer, Lori Abou Habib, is taking a bold stand and pardoning all turkeys on Tuesday, November 21. Known by SONIC fans far and wide as Unturkey Day, this cherished holiday is a win-win for turkeys and guests alike with SONIC offering half-price SONIC Cheeseburgers all day.

“It is a well-known tradition to pardon a turkey on Thanksgiving, and since you won’t see a traditional turkey dinner on our menu today, our pardon extends to all the turkeys out there,” said Abou Habib. “To give these noble birds a short reprieve before Thanksgiving, consider gobbling up a Cheeseburger instead.”

SONIC Cheeseburgers are made with melty American cheese, crinkle-cut pickles, chopped onions, fresh shredded lettuce and ripe tomatoes atop a 100 percent pure beef patty. To complete the feast, guests can pair their SONIC Cheeseburger with a side of crispy Tots, Hand Made Onion Rings and a refreshing Holiday Mint Master Shake or Blast to get into the holiday spirit.

This offer is only available on Tuesday, November 21, so head to your nearest SONIC Drive-In to partake in Unturkey Day, order an extra helping and give turkeys everywhere a well-deserved break, even if it’s just for a day.

About SONIC®, America’s Drive-In®

SONIC, America’s Drive-In is the nation’s largest drive-in restaurant chain serving approximately 3 million customers every day. Nearly 94 percent of SONIC’s 3,500 drive-in locations are owned and operated by local business men and women. For 64 years, SONIC has delighted guests with signature menu items, 1.3 million drink combinations and friendly service by iconic Carhops. Since the 2009 launch of SONIC’s Limeades for Learning philanthropic campaign in partnership with DonorsChoose.org, SONIC has donated $9.5 million to public school teachers nationwide to fund essential learning materials and innovative teaching resources to inspire creativity and learning in today’s youth. To learn more about Sonic Corp. (NASDAQ/NM: SONC), please visit sonicdrivein.com and please visit or follow us on Facebook and Twitter. To learn more about SONIC’s Limeades for Learning initiative, please visit LimeadesforLearning.com.

Contact:
Rebeka Mora
512-542-2804
Rebeka.Mora@cohnwolfe.com

Source: SONIC Drive-In

###

SONIC’s Carhop Classic meal deal complete with SONIC Cheeseburger and Onion Rings for only $2.99

SONIC’s Carhop Classic meal deal complete with SONIC Cheeseburger and Onion Rings for only $2.99

 

OKLAHOMA CITY, 2017-Sep-19 — /EPR Retail News/ — SONIC® Drive-In’s (NASDAQ: SONC) new Carhop Classic meal deal delivers guests the classic tastes they love at an incredible value complete with a SONIC Cheeseburger and Onion Rings for only $2.99*.

The Carhop Classic includes SONIC’s Cheeseburger, made with a 100-percent pure beef quarter-pound patty, fresh tomatoes, chopped onions and crinkle cut pickles all stacked on a toasted bakery-quality bun. The bundle also includes SONIC’s delicious Onion Rings that are handmade daily and ready to order at every drive-in. Cheeseburger fans can complete their meal by adding on one of SONIC’s many drink combinations including the classic Cherry Limeade.

“Our iconic Cheeseburgers are a classic item that we’ve had on the menu at SONIC since 1953 and is still a fan favorite,” said Lori Abou Habib, chief marketing officer for SONIC. “We constantly seek new ways to give our guests a fun eating experience, and the Carhop Classic deal is a great way for Cheeseburger lovers to also enjoy our handmade Onion Rings at a great deal any time of day.”

SONIC’s Carhop Classic is available for a limited only, so grab a friend and head to the drive-in to get this flavorful deal before it’s gone.

* Tax not included. See menu for details.

About SONIC®, America’s Drive-In®

SONIC, America’s Drive-In is the nation’s largest drive-in restaurant chain serving approximately 3 million customers every day. More than 90 percent of SONIC’s 3,500 drive-in locations are owned and operated by local business men and women. For 64 years, SONIC has delighted guests with signature menu items, 1.3 million drink combinations and friendly service by iconic Carhops. Since the 2009 launch of SONIC’s Limeades for Learning® campaign in partnership with DonorsChoose.org, SONIC has donated $8.4 million to public school teachers’ classrooms nationwide to fund essential learning materials and innovative teaching resources to inspire creativity and learning in their students. To learn more about Sonic Corp. (NASDAQ/NM: SONC), please visit sonicdrivein.com and please visit or follow us on Facebook and Twitter. To learn about SONIC’s Limeades for Learning initiative, please visit LimeadesforLearning.com.

Contact:
Rebeka Mora
512-542-2804
Rebeka.Mora@cohnwolfe.com

Source: SONIC Drive-In

###

Sonic Corp. appoints Jose A. Dueñas as EVP and chief brand officer

Sonic Corp. appoints Jose A. Dueñas as EVP and chief brand officer

 

OKLAHOMA CITY, 2017-Aug-10 — /EPR Retail News/ — Sonic Corp. (NASDAQ:SONC), the nation’s largest chain of drive-in restaurants, today (Aug 9, 2017) announced the appointment of Jose A. Dueñas as executive vice president and chief brand officer.

Dueñas will be responsible for the end-to-end customer experience including marketing and culinary innovation, digital strategy, consumer insights, guest relations, concept development and overall evolution of the SONIC brand for the long term. He joins the brand with more than two decades of marketing and brand senior leadership in the restaurant and consumer packaged goods industries, most recently leading same-store sales growth and profitability for Olive Garden where he served as executive vice president and chief marketing officer.

“I am delighted to welcome Jose to Sonic this month,” said Clifford Hudson, Sonic CEO. “His experience and impressive track record complements our recent appointment of Lori Abou Habib as chief marketing officer. Jose brings broad expertise and talent to Sonic; we are confident his leadership and expertise will support continued growth of our brand.”

In his five years with Olive Garden, Dueñas served as marketing lead with responsibility for brand strategy, food innovation, guest experience design, advertising and communications, digital and social media, market research and guest relations. Under his leadership the brand achieved 11 consecutive quarters of same-store sales growth, outperforming the industry. Dueñas joined Olive Garden after 15 years of progressively responsible positions at the Kellogg Company in the United States and Mexico.

The company also announced that its Board of Directors has approved the continuation of the Company’s quarterly cash dividend program. Beginning in the first fiscal quarter of 2018, the Company expects to declare a quarterly dividend of $0.16 per share of common stock, which represents an increase of 14% from the current quarterly dividend of $0.14 per share. As previously announced, a dividend of $0.14 per share is to be paid to shareholders of record as of the close of business on August 9, 2017, with a payment date of August 18, 2017. In addition to the dividend, the Board of Directors has approved an incremental $160 million share repurchase authorization. The new authorization allows for the repurchase of up to $160 million of common stock through the end of fiscal 2018.

Future declaration of quarterly dividends and the establishment of future record and payment dates are subject to the final determination of the company’s board of directors. Share repurchases may be made from time-to-time in the open market or otherwise, including through an accelerated share repurchase program, under the terms of a Rule 10b5-1 plan, in privately negotiated transactions or in round lot or block transactions.

About Sonic

SONIC, America’s Drive-In is the nation’s largest drive-in restaurant chain serving approximately 3 million customers every day. Nearly 94 percent of SONIC’s 3,500 drive-in locations are owned and operated by local business men and women. For 64 years, SONIC has delighted guests with signature menu items, 1.3 million drink combinations and friendly service by iconic Carhops. Since the 2009 launch of SONIC’s Limeades for Learning philanthropic campaign in partnership with DonorsChoose.org, SONIC has donated $8.5 million to public school teachers nationwide to fund essential learning materials and innovative teaching resources to inspire creativity and learning in today’s youth. To learn more about Sonic Corp. (NASDAQ/NM: SONC), please visit sonicdrivein.com and please visit or follow us on Facebook and Twitter. To learn more about SONIC’s Limeades for Learning initiative, please visit Limeadesforlearning.com.

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. Forward-looking statements reflect management’s expectations regarding future events and operating performance and speak only as of the date hereof. These forward-looking statements involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in, or underlying, these forward-looking statements are detailed in the company’s annual and quarterly report filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The company undertakes no obligation to publicly release revisions to these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unforeseen events, except as required to be reported under the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Contact:
Christi Woodworth
405-225-5600
Vice President of Public Relations

Source: Sonic Corp.

###

SONIC® teams up with Paramount Pictures and upcoming film Transformers: The Last Knight for new lineup of icy Slushes

SONIC® teams up with Paramount Pictures and upcoming film Transformers: The Last Knight for new lineup of icy Slushes

 

Guests to “Transform Your Summer” with refreshing Slush lineup and sweepstakes

OKLAHOMA CITY, 2017-May-31 — /EPR Retail News/ — SONIC® Drive-In (NASDAQ: SONC) is teaming up with Paramount Pictures and the upcoming June 21 theatrical release of Transformers: The Last Knight, directed by Michael Bay, to deliver a new lineup of icy Slushes and a chance to win thousands of prizes with the SONIC “Transform Your Summer” Sweepstakes.

SONIC’s Transformers: The Last Knight Slushes come in a series of unique flavors representing three of the film’s most popular characters inspired by Hasbro’s iconic toy line: Optimus Prime®, Bumblebee™ and Megatron®. The Optimus Prime® Slush combines cherry Slush topped with a flavorful layer of blue raspberry. Bumblebee™ Slush starts with orange Slush and a layer of grape flavor. Megatron® Slush is a base of sweet, classic clear Slush topped with a layer of icy grape flavor. To activate, fans just stir the concoction to create a refreshingly one-of-a-kind, icy flavor adventure.

“Partnering with Paramount Pictures and the new Transformers: The Last Knight movie provides a vertical integration opportunity with one of the most-loved movie franchises ever and allows us to play off our strength in frozen beverages,” said Lori Abou Habib, vice president of national marketing for SONIC. “The three Slush flavor combinations have refreshing flavor profiles that can’t be replicated anywhere else, something our guests expect from SONIC, are served in a movie-themed clear cup to show off the color-changing process.”

Starting May 29, guests can also participate in the “Transform Your Summer” Sweepstakes by visiting sonicdrivein.com/transformersmovie and entering the unique sticker code delivered with their SONIC order at for a chance to win. Prizes include Chevy Camaros, trips to Los Angeles, movie tickets, My SONIC gift cards and more.

“This national promotion from SONIC with their themed menu items, and great movie related prizes is a perfect kick off to the Summer excitement around the new film,” said LeeAnne Stables, president of worldwide marketing partnerships for Paramount Pictures. “The creative advertising they launched with hilarious custom television, digital and radio spots deliver an impressive, integrated campaign that SONIC and Transformers fans will enjoy.”

SONIC Transformer: The Last Knight Slushes are only available for a limited time, so hurry to the nearest drive-in to “Transform Your Summer.”

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. A purchase will not increase your chances of winning. Begins 5/29/2017 at 12 noon ET and ends 7/23/2017 at 11:59 PM ET. Open only to eligible legal 50 U.S./D.C. residents. Must be 18 years or older to enter. Subject to Official Rules. For Official Rules, incld. how to enter without a purchase, visit www.sonicdrivein.com/transformersmovie. Sticker codes available only while supplies last. Void where prohibited. Sponsor: Sonic Industries Services Inc. Chevy and Camaro are registered trademarks of GM. GM is not a sponsor of or affiliated with this promotion. TM & ©2017 June America’s Drive-In Brand Properties LLC ©2017 Par. Pics. ©2017 Hasbro. TRANSFORMERS, “Transform Your Summer” and all related characters are trademarks of Hasbro. All rights reserved. Hasbro is not a sponsor of this promotion.

About SONIC®, America’s Drive-In®

SONIC, America’s Drive-In is the nation’s largest drive-in restaurant chain serving approximately 3 million customers every day. More than 90 percent of SONIC’s 3,500 drive-in locations are owned and operated by local business men and women. For 64 years, SONIC has delighted guests with signature menu items, 1.3 million drink combinations and friendly service by iconic Carhops. Since the 2009 launch of SONIC’s Limeades for Learning® campaign in partnership with DonorsChoose.org, SONIC has donated $7.4 million to public school teachers’ classrooms nationwide to fund essential learning materials and innovative teaching resources to inspire creativity and learning in their students. To learn more about Sonic Corp. (NASDAQ/NM: SONC), please visit sonicdrivein.com  and please visit or follow us on Facebook and Twitter. To learn about SONIC’s Limeades for Learning initiative, please visit LimeadesforLearning.com.

About Paramount Pictures Corporation

Paramount Pictures Corporation (PPC), a global producer and distributor of filmed entertainment, is a unit of Viacom (NASDAQ: VIAB, VIA), a leading content company with prominent and respected film, television and digital entertainment brands. Paramount controls a collection of some of the most powerful brands in filmed entertainment, including Paramount Pictures, Paramount Animation, Paramount Television, Paramount Vantage, Paramount Classics, Insurge Pictures, MTV Films, and Nickelodeon Movies. PPC operations also include Paramount Home Media Distribution, Paramount Pictures International, Paramount Licensing Inc., and Paramount Studio Group.

Contact:
Rebeka Mora
512-542-2804
Rebeka Mora@cohnwolfe.com

Source: SONIC Drive-In

###