Chili's to Search for New Advertising Agency

Food & Beverage Close-Up, April 25, 2007

FOOD AND BEVERAGE CLOSE-UP-25 April 2007-Chili's to Search for New Advertising Agency(C)2007 - CloseUpMedia - newsdesk@closeupmedia.com

Chili's Grill & Bar has announced it will commence a search for a new advertising agency.

Chili noted that the company and its long standing agency, Austin-based GSD&M, teamed up for many notable advertising and creative campaigns throughout the years, including the launch of the Baby Back Ribs jingle, which is arguably one of the most memorable campaigns in contemporary advertising."Last week we sat down, as we have for 20 years, and had a good conversation with our long-time friends at GSD&M. Together we reflected upon the incredible success we've shared. From 219 stores to now over 1,300, together we built this iconic brand. But we knew it was time to go our separate ways," said Todd Diener, President of Chili's Grill & Bar. "We're ending just like we started, friends and respected professionals embracing the future."

"To everything, there is a season. What a ride. We got to be a big part of Norman Brinker's vision and the fulfillment of that vision with the leaders who followed. From Baby Back Ribs to last week's gold Ogilvy Award, it's been a wonderful learning experience. Chili's will grow and prosper, and so will GSD&M," said Steve Gurasich, CEO of GSD&M.

Chili's Grill & Bar is the flagship brand of Dallas-based Brinker International, a casual dining company. Other Brinker brands include Romano's Macaroni Grill, Maggiano's Little Italy and On The Border Mexican Grill & Cantina.

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