PF Changs Creating Frozen Food Line
Category: PF Changs Published on Tuesday, 18 August 2009 00:04
P.F. Chang’s China Bistro Inc. said Monday it has entered into a licensing agreement to develop a line of frozen entrees under the P.F. Chang’s brand. A launch date for the new products has not been scheduled.
P.F. Chang’s will be joining several other restaurant operators that have ventured into retail consumer products to drive revenue with restaurant sales have slipping.
California Pizza Kitchen, T.G.I. Friday’s, Claim Jumper, Marie Callender’s and celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck have long offered retail products in grocery stories. In addition, a number of restaurant chains have been introducing or expanding branded grocery products, including Tony Roma’s, Starbucks, Steak n Shake and Jamba Juice.
"This represents a fantastic growth opportunity for our company and allows our brand to reach more people more often," Rick Federico, chairman and co-chief executive of P.F. Chang’s, said in a statement. "We believe it will complement our core business at the restaurants."
John LeBoutillier, Unilever’s senior vice president for the U.S. foods division, said the prospects for frozen food under the P.F. Chang’s brand are good.
“From research, Asian cuisine ranks only behind Italian among ethnic cuisines for consumers and P.F. Chang’s is their favorite,” LeBoutillier said.
P.F. Chang's has more than 190 Bistro restaurants as well as the Pei Wei Asian Diner fast-casual brand.