June 28, 2011
Industries Headlines

Donatos launches improved online ordering system

Columbus, Ohio-based Donatos Pizza has announced the launch of its faster, more efficient online ordering system. New features of the system include: a drag-and-drop cart; payment system; a new profile page that holds multiple delivery addresses, favorite orders and order history; a coupon tab with zip code area specific offers; and new animation with product photos on the menu.

"We think customers will be pleased with how user-friendly the new online ordering site is," says Todd Young, vice president of operations. "The new platform makes ordering simpler, with fewer clicks, and is now twice as fast as our original system."

Donatos operates 170 company and franchise locations in six states, with its products served in more than 20 entertainment and sports venues.


Straw Hat Pizza introduces a new Hot Hat Stuffed Sandwich

San Ramon, California-based Straw Hat Pizza has debuted its newest Hot Hat Stuffed Sandwich. The Chicken Bacon Ranch Hot Hat features grilled chicken breast, smoky bacon, red onions, fresh tomatoes and ranch dressing inside a sesame seeded warm crust.

The Chicken Bacon Ranch Hot Hat joins the Ham and Cheese, Baja Chicken, Meatball, Roast Beef and Pastrami. The sandwiches were first introduced in the early 1970s and are $5 each through August 31, 2011.

"Basically our Hot Hat is a calzone with fresh meats, cheeses and more," says President Jonathan Fornaci. "Our Hot Hats have been a popular menu item for many years and we thought it was a good time to remind guests with a $5 offer all summer long."

Founded in 1959, Straw Hat operates 82 locations with new restaurants opening in Arkansas, Arizona, California, Florida, New Jersey, Maryland and Virginia.


Papa Gino's adds a Greek salad to its menu

Dedham, Massachusetts-based Papa Gino's introduces a Greek salad to its menu as part of a summertime promotion that began Monday. The salad features crisp lettuce, feta cheese, olives, red onions and banana peppers. Sold separately for $5.49, the salad may be added to any size pizza purchase for $3.99.

"The new Greek salad is a great, hearty salad that complements our pizza offerings," says Chief Marketing Officer Pete Bell. "In addition to adding a new salad, we are also adding banana peppers and feta cheese as pizza topping options."

Papa Gino's, Inc. operates more than 360 company-owned and franchised Papa Gino's, D'Angelo Grilled Sandwiches and dual location restaurants.


Hunt Brothers Pizza offers NASCAR fans a Big Wheeling with Elliot Sadler Challenge

Hunt Brothers Pizza has teamed up with NASCAR driver Elliot Sadler to give restaurant customers an opportunity to race in the Big Wheeling with Elliot Sadler Challenge on July 6 in Sparta, Kentucky. Hunt Brothers and NASCAR fans registered online and nine contestants will be selected tomorrow for the challenge that will take place as part of the Sprint Cup Race weekend at the Kentucky Speedway.

"The Big Wheeling with Elliot Sadler Challenge is a great way for fans of Hunt Brothers Pizza and NASCAR to get pumped up for the inaugural Sprint Cup Race weekend at the Kentucky Speedway," says Hunt Brothers Vice President of Marketing Keith Solsvig. "Elliot is having a terrific year out on the racetrack, and Hunt Brothers Pizza is proud to support him and celebrate NASCAR fans with this fun event."

The nine contestants will compete for several prices, including two grand-stand race tickets and two cold passes to a remaining 2011 race of their choice.

Headquartered in Nashville, Tennessee, Hunt Brothers Pizza has more than 6,000 made-to-order convenience store locations in 28 states.