Applebee’s Grill + Bar kicks off its status as the Official Grill + Bar of the NFL
While some people dream of sitting on the 50th yard line, many football fans watch every pass, tackle, and score at their favorite local restaurant. As the new Official Grill + Bar of the NFL, Applebee’s Grill + Bar looks to give football fans the best food and beverage experience all season long.
Food and football go hand in hand. While some fans plan the epic tailgate in the shadows of their team’s football stadium, others prefer the ease, comfort, and shorter lines at their local restaurant. With every replay on the television screen and the camaraderie of enjoying the moment with other football fans, that local restaurant can be as spirited as any home game.
Recently, Applebee’s Grill + Bar announced that it is the Official Grill + Bar of the NFL, as part of a new a multi-year partnership. Since 2019, the restaurant brand has been the sponsor of Football Night in America for NBC's Sunday Night Football.
Speaking to the new partnership, Joel Yashinsky, Chief Marketing Officer, Applebee’s Grill + Bar said, “Applebee’s fans are NFL fans, which is why we are excited to bring America’s Favorite Grill + Bar together with America’s number one sport in a way that will create a fun and engaging experience for all. We have the best food and drinks to enjoy while watching games, whether dining at our restaurants or enjoying Applebee’s To Go at home. From America’s Favorite Boneless Wings, Mozzarella Sticks, and more to a wide range of bar offerings, there’s no better place than Applebee’s to enjoy watching football. We can’t wait to provide great experiences and NFL opportunities to our fans.”
To kick off the multi-year partnership, Applebee’s will be offering free Boneless Wings with $40 online purchase during the 2024 NFL Draft. The Draft is held from April 24 through April 27.
While additional details on the Applebee’s and NFL partnership have yet to be revealed, it will be interesting to see how food specials and other promotional events come into play. Whether it is a specialty wing flavor for a particular big game or menu discounts over the season, the restaurant brand needs to engage NFL fans in meaningful ways.
While food and beverage discounts can be a purchase driver, the football fan is more than just a cost-conscious consumer. They crave the connection to their fandom in a real, tangible way.
As many football fans appreciate, a lucky food or a food tradition might be tied to a winning season. If Applebee’s can find a way to capture those sentiments beyond the table, they could have their own loyal fans long after the Lombardi Trophy is presented to the SBLIX winner.
More information on the Applebee’s Grill + Bar becoming the Official Grill + Bar of the NFL can be found online. Additional promotions and events will be revealed throughout the partnership duration.