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Dive Overview:
- Hooters is launching its first line of frozen appetizers and snacks. The restaurant chain said in a statement.
- The four menu items offered — BBQ Smoked Wings, Dry Rubbed Smoked Wings, Buffalo Style Boneless Wings and Buffalo Style Popcorn Chicken — will initially be sold at Publix supermarkets.
- Hooters said more retail chains plan to sell its frozen meals later this year. The company also plans to launch four other brand-licensed products by the end of 2024.
Dive Insights:
Even as consumers spend more time at home, many haven’t abandoned their love of restaurant food or the convenience of preparing food in their own kitchens. While Hooters is known for its chicken wings, the frozen food launch gives the restaurateur another way to reach the masses, which is especially valuable now as inflation forces many consumers to cut back on dining out to save money.
Hooters said the wings and popcorn chicken can be heated in a home oven or air fryer to recreate the restaurant’s popular dishes. Each item comes in 12-16 ounce servings with a suggested retail price of $7.49 to $8.99.
“Whether they’re enjoying a quick meal at home or planning a meal on the go, consumers now have another way to enjoy Hooters’ world-famous flavor,” said Bruce Scala, chief marketing officer, Hooters of America.
Other chains with locations include Arby’s, Sonic, Chick-fil-A, Bob Evans and Chuck E. Cheese. Some restaurants have chosen to partner with large packaged food companies in supermarkets. Kraft Heinz sells TGI Fridays, Taco Bell and Benihana products. Conagra Brands sells Wendy’s canned chili and PF Chang’s menu items. Nestle sells specialty pies from California Pizza Kitchen.
