ESPN, best known for its sports coverage, has also attempted to become a player in food with its ESPN Zone restaurants.

Following the 2010 closure of most of its ESPN Zone locations, ESPN is again trying its hand at eatables via a new alliance with Applebee’s.

ESPN has unveiled the ESPN Fan Zone within Applebee’s locations nationwide. The relationship also includes Anheuser-Busch, MillerCoors and Pepsi. Financial terms were not disclosed.

According to Ed Erhardt, president of ESPN global customer marketing and sales, “At ESPN our mission is to serve fans and the ESPN Fan Zone extends that mission directly into fans’ favorite neighborhood bar and grill.”

Applebee’s-branded ESPN Fan Zone includes a new Game Time Menu (with such selections as Boo Yah! Brew Pretzels, First Down Spinach & Artichoke dip, Team Wonton Tacos and Boom Boom Boneless Buffalo Wings); and a Fan Scan smartphone game, accessible only at ESPN Fan Zones at Applebee’s, which gives people an opportunity to win weekly instant prizes and three grand prizes.

ESPN and Applebee’s are supporting with a national TV spot starring ESPN anchor/analyst/commentator Chris Berman.

“ESPN has become synonymous with game day,” Mike Archer, president of Applebee’s, said in a statement. “Bringing that viewing experience to Applebee’s gives our sports crazed Guests the electric atmosphere of watching the big game on TV with the neighborhood.”

Applebee’s based in Kansas City, Mo., said it has about 2,000 locations in 49 states.

ESPN previously had, and in June 2010 shuttered, ESPN Zone restaurants in New York, Baltimore, Chicago, Las Vegas and Washington, D.C. Two locations remain in Southern California but are operated by AEG.

ESPN also has an ESPN Club at Disney’s Boardwalk and ESPN Grill at ESPN Wide World of Sports, both in the Disney World complex in Orlando.

Brief Take: ESPN is taking a new route by teaming with national chain Applebee’s in an effort to bring the media giant closer to the hearts and stomachs of sports fans.

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