T.G.I. Friday's Restaurants Franchise News

First Smart App for iPhone and Android from a Casual Dining Restaurant That Allows Guests to Pay Bill, Browse the Menu and Uncover Special Promotions
CARROLLTON, Texas, April 27, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Whether celebrating the liberating feeling of Friday by sipping a Jackberry Smash while mingling at the bar or indulging in craveable dishes like the Spicy Craft Beer Cheese Burger, paying the tab at T.G.I. Friday's® is fast and easy with the new T.G.I. Friday's Mobile App for iPhone and Android. The app is the first from a casual dining chain that gives guests the ability to start a tab, keep track of it and pay directly from their phones when ready to call it a night, making it easier than ever to enjoy Friday's.
"This new app puts the Friday experience at guests' fingertips - whether they're looking for the closest Friday's to celebrate and indulge or if they want to pay their bar tab quickly," said Ricky Richardson, chief operating officer at T...

CARROLLTON, Texas, April 26, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Whether looking for fresh, seasonal dishes, like the Strawberry Fields Salad or Caribbean Spiced Rum Ribs, or to indulge in dishes that follow current flavor trends, like the Korean Steak Tacos or Salted Carmel Cake, T.G.I. Friday's® guests now have 17 more reasons to come in to Friday's and celebrate. The 17 new dishes and mouthwatering menu favorites add value and variety for Friday's guests, including new vegetarian options and more shareable appetizers.
"At Friday's, we're always looking for ways to satisfy our guests' cravings, including creating new menu items that provide our guests with a wide variety of options, whether they are dining in or grabbing a quick bite," said Ricky Richardson, chief operating officer at T...

Guests Can Display Double Dipping Behavior on National Pretzel Day with Friday's New Warm Pretzels with Beer Cheese Dipping Sauce
CARROLLTON, Texas, April 26, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- When compared to older age groups, younger generations are far less uptight about double dipping – the practice of dipping food in a communal sauce, taking a bite, and then dipping again. A recent survey commissioned by T.G.I. Friday's found that 67 percent of people ages 18 to 34 say it is OK to double dip while only 28 percent of people ages 55 and older say it is acceptable.
This announcement comes on the heels of a new Friday's menu introduction that includes a basket of Warm Pretzels with Beer Cheese Dipping sauce. This delectable appetizer pairs thick, warm pretzels and a creamy beer cheese sauce made with regionally crafted beer and topped with bacon...

Friday's recognizes partnership with Minnie's Food Pantry by donating a new truck to help continue their work in the community.
CARROLLTON, Texas, April 13, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- T.G.I. Friday's® in Addison, Texas will host a viewing party to celebrate the work of local non-profit, Minnie's Food Pantry, which will be featured in the Food Network's documentary "Hunger Hits Home" this Saturday, April 14. The documentary, which offers a first-hand look at the crisis of childhood hunger in America, will feature Minnie's Food Pantry's work to provide nutritious, free food to families unable to afford groceries in North Texas.
"Friday's recognizes the commitment of Minnie's team to reduce hunger in the community, and we are proud to be a partner in those efforts," said Nick Shepherd, president and chief executive officer of Carlson Restaurants, parent company to T...

David Kringlund Perfects Mix of Personality, Bar Acumen and Showmanship
CARROLLTON, Texas, Feb. 27, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- T.G.I. Friday's is raising a glass to celebrate David Kringlund from Stureplan, Sweden who was crowned the World's Greatest Bartender in the 21st annual World Bartender Championship (WBC) in Dallas. David's knowledge of mixology, crowd-pleasing energy and ability to pour the perfect mixed drink secured the title. More than 8,000 Friday's bartenders from around the world competed in a series of local and regional events leading up to the final showdown, which pit nine finalists against one another competing for the crown.
Along with over 1,000 spectators, multi-platinum recording artist Enrique Iglesias was on site enjoying the thrill of the competition and the skill of Friday's bartenders as one was crowned and awarded the $10,000 prize...

Annual World Bartender Championship celebrates 21st birthday, recognizes best-of-the-best mixologists worldwide.
CARROLLTON, Texas, Jan. 11, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Countless hours spent perfecting cocktail recipes and working on bottle-wielding skills is about to pay off for nine T.G.I. Friday's® bartenders. On February 26, 2012, Friday's will host its 21st annual World Bartender Championship (WBC), a premier bartending competition where these nine finalists, who took home top divisional titles around the world, will face off for one final battle in Dallas.
The World Bartender Championship, which started as a one-off challenge between two bartenders and today welcomes more than 8,000 bartenders around the world in a premier competition widely acknowledged among bartenders as the toughest international bartending competition, selected these global finalists based on their knowledge of the bar, the flavor of their drinks and their 'flairtending' skills...

Friday's invites guests to ring in the New Year with half-priced appetizers and fun holiday drinks
CARROLLTON, Texas, Dec. 29, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- The energy and vibe of T.G.I. Friday's® bar has always drawn in guests looking to gather with friends, put aside the issues of the day and enjoy their time with others in an energetic and fun environment. So, Friday's is taking that Friday feeling and extending it to New Year's Eve. What better place to start the New Year off right?
From 9:00 p.m. to midnight on New Year's Eve, December 31, 2011, Friday's guests will enjoy great food for half the price. Menu items included in this special pricing are: Pan Seared Pot Stickers, Crispy Green Bean Fries, Fried Mozzarella, Spinach Florentine Flatbread, Tuscan Spinach Dip and half orders of Loaded Potato Skins...

Friday's holiday promotions keep on giving, with the chance to win prizes with every visit and new Friday's gift card promotions
CARROLLTON, Texas, Nov. 22, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- In keeping with the celebratory spirit of the holidays and T.G.I. Friday's® fun-loving atmosphere, Friday's is giving back to its guests that come in to enjoy the season, both with Best Buy® prizes and gift card promotions – including a $5 Bonus Bite card for every $25 gift card purchased.
Beginning today and ending December 25, guests dining at Friday's will receive a special code on their check to win daily and weekly prize giveaways and two chances to win 1,000,000 Best Buy Reward Zone® points – a $20,000 value. Simply enter the code from the Friday's receipt online to find out if it's one of the 551 winners...

Special Celebrations, Donations on Tap in Honor of Friday's® Competition's Coming of Age
CARROLLTON, Texas, Nov. 11, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Bartenders at Friday's® celebrate that Friday feeling with their guests each and every day, and this year's World Bartender Championship (WBC), is giving bartenders and guests alike even more reason to celebrate. WBC, which challenges 8,000 bartenders worldwide and culminates with the crowning of one, deemed the world's greatest, is toasting its 21st birthday this year! And, in honor of this milestone, Friday's is hosting special activities for guests and putting a few new twists on tap to make this the best WBC year yet.
"Our bartenders help thousands of guests a year celebrate their 21st birthday blowouts...

New Jack Daniel's Premium Grill Entrees and Langostino Lobster Topped Premium Entrees Let Guests Truly Treat Themselves
CARROLLTON, Texas, Nov. 8, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Through the holiday season, Friday's® is inviting its guests to get into the spirit and indulge in the rich flavor of the new Jack Daniel's® Premium Grill items, including the juicy Black Angus Rib-Eye and the fresh Norwegian Salmon. Guests can also treat themselves to new, mouth-watering Langostino Lobster Topped Premium Entrees like the Black Angus Flat Iron Steak and the Black Angus Sirloin.
When people think of Friday's, often what comes to mind is the signature Jack Daniel's menu and the relaxed, celebratory atmosphere. The new, savory additions to this beloved menu expand on what guests already love about Friday's and provide the perfect way to celebrate the season at a great value...

Friday's invites guests to get into the Halloween spirit with free appetizers, costume contests and drink specials
CARROLLTON, Texas, Oct. 27, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Trick or Treat? Friday's® chooses treats! This Halloween weekend, Friday's is hosting a Halloween Party with free appetizers, costume contests and killer drinks – pun intended.
Beginning Friday, October 28th through Monday the 31st, Friday's is treating its costumed guests to a free appetizer – a choice of the Crispy Green Bean Fries, Fried Mozzarella or Pan-Seared Pot Stickers. And, for those that really want to get in the spooky spirit, Friday's is hosting a costume contest on Saturday night with prizes including a $50 Best Buy gift card from Skyy Vodka and Red Bull...

New Pick 2 for $10 Menu Treats Every Day like It's Friday
CARROLLTON, Texas, Oct. 3, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Whether it's a warm-up appetizer or an ultimate dessert finale that makes your meal complete, Friday's® has the winning recipe. Starting today, guests can treat themselves like it's Friday with the new Pick 2 for $10 menu, making it easier for guests to satisfy their savory craving or sweet tooth without breaking the bank. With the return of old favorites and the introduction of new temptations, Friday's now offers more options to pick the perfect pair for a meal.The Pick 2 for $10 allows guests to pair either an appetizer or dessert with their entree, customizing their ideal meal. Whether you pick the Spinach Florentine Flatbread to complement the Dragonfire Chicken, or enjoy a sweet finish to the Jack Daniel's® Pulled Pork Sandwich with the Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie, there are a variety of combinations available from the 18 different items on this new menu...

New Licensees Targeted in the Food, Beverage and Home Goods Categories CARROLLTON, Texas, Aug. 11, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- T.G.I. Friday's®, known for its energetic bar and restaurant experience, announces plans to expand its licensed retail business by targeting new licensees in the food, beverage and home goods categories. The decision to invest additional resources into its licensing program stems from the brand's recent growth in the market, which currently includes over 50 million product units with partners such as Heinz, Inventure and Diageo, resulting in more than $400 million in sales annually.

"Our approach to licensing is as important and strategic as any other aspect of our marketing efforts," said Trey Hall, senior vice president and chief marketing officer for T...

Custom Facebook Tab Can Treat Dad to a Cold Brew for Father's Day CARROLLTON, Texas, June 9, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Unofficially dubbed the "summer of beer" by Friday's® and its Better with Brew menu, Facebook users can help their friends cool down during the hot months via the new Buy Your Friend A Beer application. And, just in time for Father's Day, sons and daughters can finally move on from the go-to gifts of socks or a tie and buy dad a beer for his special day.

Any Facebook user 21 years and older can buy their Facebook friends up to five beers simply by "liking" the Friday's fan page and placing an order through the custom tab. Recipients receive an electronic gift card to redeem in restaurant. The purchase price is set at $5, regardless of the recipient's regional location, and is redeemable for any beer of choice, non-alcoholic beverage or food item at any local T...

New Food and Beverage Offerings Now Available CARROLLTON, Texas, May 9, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Just in time for summer, T.G.I. Friday's® is bringing out the best seasonal flavors by introducing a new line of menu items inspired by and prepared with beer and featuring other bold, fresh ingredients. The new menu combines innovative dishes with craft beer, proving that great food is "better with brew." Friday's® guests can celebrate the relationship between great food and a cold draft, pairing new seafood or steak dishes with the bold, hoppy flavors of Fat Tire, Magic Hat and other craft beers being introduced to the beer roster.

Friday's is offering these regional craft beers in its restaurants for the first time, answering the call by 40 percent of consumers who like to try beer that pairs well with a seasonal dish, according to a recent survey...

Burger Enthusiasts Launch #FridaysBurgerTrophy Twitter Hashtag to Find Missing Memorabilia CARROLLTON, Texas, April 11, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- T.G.I. Friday's is offering a reward for any tips that lead to the return of the beloved "Best Burger" trophy, which was taken from the Ammon, Idaho location just two days after it was bestowed to the staff. Burger enthusiasts everywhere have banded together and created the hashtag #FridaysBurgerTrophy in a show of support until the trophy is returned. The reward, while not monetary in nature, will be of the burger and fries variety.

T.G.I. Friday's has long been known for its burger, having won multiple "Best Burger" awards across the country including Minneapolis, Minn., Effingham, Ill...

Give Me More Stripes® Program Infused with Added Choice and Guest Recognition CARROLLTON, Texas, March 30, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- T.G.I. Friday's® restaurants are adding more choice, recognition, and surprises to its Give Me More Stripes® loyalty program, an industry first when introduced in April 2008. Based on recent research and guest feedback on more than 300 potential features and benefits, Friday's is refreshing its loyalty program for its millions of Stripes members, offering more rewards faster while retaining several of the program's most popular benefits.

"With the new reward structure, upgraded and increased program benefits, and added 'surprise and delight' guest experiences, we are helping our valued Give Me More Stripes members earn and redeem Stripes faster," said Trey Hall, chief marketing officer of Friday's...

Regional Game Watching Parties Bring Fans Together to Cheer Their Teams CARROLLTON, Texas, March 18, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- For college basketball fans who can't get enough of their favorite teams, Friday's is bringing courtside excitement close to home with Fandemonium game watching parties during tournament play. At select stores in Washington, D.C., Newark, N.J., and Houston, fans can catch all the action on the big screen as they sample food and drink specials and enjoy games, prizes and halftime entertainment.

"What better way to be part of college basketball during the best part of the season than with our spirited game watching parties," said Trey Hall, chief marketing officer of Friday's. "In addition to the Fandemonium ambience, food and drinks will provide our guests with a courtside experience and will extend that Friday feeling...

CARROLLTON, Texas, March 17, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Whether it's a slam dunk or the luck of the Irish, Friday's® restaurants are giving guests many reasons to get that Friday feeling with events and specials throughout the month. To celebrate St. Patrick's Day and the men's college basketball tournament, Friday's is satisfying guests' appetite for celebration with themed drinks, signature dishes and great prizes.

"From green beer to basketball, March is jam-packed with festive events that are best enjoyed in an energetic locale and in the company of friends," said Trey Hall, chief marketing officer of Friday's. "Our restaurants and bars across the U.S. will be pouring specialty drinks, serving great food and hosting activities for guests looking to inject the Friday's spirit throughout the month...

Friday's® Crowns New World Bartender Champion as Athletes Pledge to Continue Campaign and Seek Global Home for Sport CARROLLTON, Texas, March 16, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Bartenders around the world are not backing down in their quest for athletic gold. Despite efforts in petitioning the International Olympic Committee, bartenders have yet to receive a definitive "yes/no" from their request for recognition for bartending as an official sport for the 2012 Olympic Games. But Friday's games have gone on regardless, with the crowning of the new 2010 World's Greatest Bartender in Dallas Monday night.

The new champion, Attila Farmasi from Budapest, Hungary, joins 2009 champ Brian Zachau, and thousands of others around the globe, in the quest to find a global home for the sport of bartending...