When the Going Got Tough, IHOP Called Us
In the early 1980s, the well-known restaurant chain IHOP filed for bankruptcy. An investment firm helped get them back on track, along with a boost from our unique, proven approach to media buying.
By the late 1980s, IHOP had really picked up steam. The chain massively expanded. Profits grew. Management dubbed us their “secret weapon” in battling back to success, with Always On SmartMedia responsible for the exceptional planning and buys that drove traffic and built brand awareness, taking them from regional success to a national and eventually an international chain.
We helped make them famous with simple and compelling creative plus our unique SmartMedia approach. You likely recall (if you’re over 30 that is) the Rooty Tooty Fresh and Fruity campaign that first ran in 1984 and became a cornerstone with “Cliff” as the spokesman and has been used for decades.
Testimonial
Joe Garcia
Former Marketing Director
IHOP Corporation. Glendale, CA
“MediaDex* buys gave IHOP visibility on part with advertisers that outspent us 10 to 1. Their professionalism added measurably to our entire marketing department.”
*MediaDex is our founding and affiliate agency based in Cincinnati, founded by Bill Laske’s (Always On Founder) father when in the early 80’s.
Your Secret Weapon is Ready
Our experience with IHOP, and now with Checkers/Rally’s (in our 21st year!) and Norms Restaurants (13 great years of unprecedented sales growth!), tells you that Always On can be instrumental in driving traffic and sales — even during difficult economic times.
If you’d like to fact check our post and get a detailed history of IHOP we found this article in FundingUniverse: IHOP Story There’s also condensed timeline on the IHOP website.