Media Contact:
Lisa Ptak
Director, Integrated Marketing
312-253-4690
lisa@ifmaworld.com
COEX Innovation Awards Recognize Groundbreaking Foodservice Operators
Wendy’s, Smashburger, Panera Bread, Noodles & Company are Honored
Chicago, Ill. (February 19, 2013) – For the third consecutive year, The International Foodservice
Manufacturers Association (IFMA) recognizes four outstanding foodservice chain operators through the
COEX Innovation Awards. The winners will receive their awards during IFMA’s Chain Operators
EXchange (COEX), March 3-6, 2013 at The Red Rock Resort in Las Vegas, Nev.
COEX Innovation Awards recognize regional and national chain companies that are shaping the industry
through innovation in culinary, operations, marketing and service. National and regional chains were
nominated and voted on by IFMA members, which include the world’s most prestigious foodservice
manufacturers.
“The annual COEX Innovation Awards allow us to honor pioneering chain operators that make foodservice
the exciting industry it is today,” said Larry Oberkfell, President & CEO, IFMA. “This year we received
more nominations than ever before, which speak volumes about the inventive work being done by the chain
operator community.”
2013 COEX Innovation winners are:
•
Marketing/Service, National Chain: Wendy’s International
Wendy’s is in the midst of a comprehensive transformation to contemporize the brand and improve
the customer experience. The company is connecting with consumers in new and innovative ways,
with bold restaurant designs, fresh product innovation, more engaging advertising and digital media
advancements, including a mobile app that allows customers to personalize meals based on the
amount of calories they choose. The brand transformation will soon extend to the introduction of a
new, contemporary logo.
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COEX Innovation Awards Recognize Groundbreaking Foodservice Operators continued:
•
Marketing/Service, Regional Chain: Smashburger
Smashburger is a fast-casual restaurant designed to be every city's favorite place for burgers. No
two Smashburger menus are alike, as they create special burgers using local ingredients for each
market they serve. In 2012, they took this strategy to a new level with locally sourced craft beers.
Smashburger collaborated with small, resident brewers to create unique burger and beer pairings
specific to individual markets.
•
Culinary/Operations, National Chain: Panera Bread
Panera is a driving force in the quick casual segment. A forerunner in the bakery café space, the
company is focused on improving customer experience and identifying unique culinary experiences
to bring to their consumer base. In addition, Panera is a leader in the “pay what you can” restaurant
model, which raises the level of awareness about food insecurity in the U.S. and serves as a catalyst
for change in communities.
•
Culinary/Operations, Regional Chain: Noodles & Company
Noodles & Company has a broad-based pasta menu with a variety of cuisines available in a
multitude of formats. The addition of new appetizers, sandwiches and alternative proteins expand
their already robust menu offerings, allowing for more flavors, textures and day part choices. The
success of Noodles & Company’s culinary innovations is evident in their growth. With nearly 330
units and climbing, they are eclipsing store growth of 10% even in difficult economic times.
The 2013 COEX Innovation Awards are sponsored by Sargento Foods, Inc. and Surlean Foods. For more
information on the COEX Innovation Awards, contact Lisa Ptak at lisa@ifmaworld.com or
312-253-4690. Visit ifmaworld.com for more information.
About International Foodservice Manufacturers Association (IFMA)
IFMA is a leading trade association comprising more than 300 of the world’s most prestigious food,
equipment and supply manufacturers in the $600 billion foodservice industry, as well as related marketing
service organizations, trade publications, distributors and brokers. IFMA’s mission is to serve as a business
partner to its members by bringing them relevant, actionable services that are fundamental to their business
assessment, planning and execution.
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