A unique initiative by a burger chain is adding a delicious twist to high school prom celebrations. Checkers & Rally's, known for its fast-food offerings, is rolling out its Fry Love Express trailer to serve complimentary seasoned fries and chicken tenders at the Ben Davis High School prom after-party on May 10. This event will take place from 10 p.m. to 1 a.m. outside Roller City rink, where picnic tables, lawn games, music, and a photo booth are also being set up for attendees' enjoyment. The company's commitment to community engagement has transformed this mobile food service into a philanthropic endeavor aimed at spreading joy.
Based in Tampa, Florida, Checkers & Rally’s operates both Checkers and Rally’s brands and began utilizing its trailer for pop-up events in 2020. Erica Hernandez, a field marketing manager responsible for coordinating the Fry Love Express program, explains that these pop-ups occur approximately 200 to 250 times annually, providing free fries and occasionally chicken tenders. One memorable occasion involved a wedding where two Checkers enthusiasts got engaged at one of their restaurants. The company not only catered the outdoor reception with fries and tenders but also gifted the bride a bouquet crafted from tenders.
Beyond offering free food, some of these partnerships involve monetary contributions benefiting schools, libraries, and service organizations. Hernandez notes that the initiative has evolved into a significant philanthropic effort aimed at giving back to communities wherever they go. The Ben Davis event marks the second high school prom appearance for the trailer, following last year's Kentucky high school prom service. Scheduled between stops in Arkansas and Missouri, this Indiana visit aligns perfectly with the company's mission to bring joy and support local events.
Hernandez shares that discovering such events often involves scouting online or through word-of-mouth before reaching out to potential partners. Those interested in connecting with the Fry Love Express program can email community@checkers.com. Anyone encountering the trailer at an event is invited to enjoy free fries, continuing the tradition of sharing tasty treats with various communities across the nation.
The Fry Love Express exemplifies how businesses can engage meaningfully with communities through creative initiatives. By combining culinary delights with entertainment elements, it enhances special occasions like proms while fostering connections and contributing positively to society. This approach not only delights participants but also strengthens ties between the brand and local areas.