Hooters Expands Internationally to New Zealand

Hooters Expands Internationally to New Zealand

Sept 6 2005

Hooters of America, Inc. is pleased to announce that it has entered into an exclusive franchise agreement to open up in major cities throughout New Zealand beginning next year. This exciting new international franchise expansion provides for exclusive penetration in all markets throughout the country and will combine with Hooters of Australia in this region to meet the large growth potential for this region.

The first Pacific Rim Hooters opened in Singapore in 1996, since then the chain has opened Hooters in 16 countries totaling over 32 restaurants in Argentina, Aruba, Austria, Brazil, Canada, Chile, England, Guatemala, Mexico, Singapore, Taiwan, Switzerland, Thailand, Croatia and Venezuela.

John Weber, Executive Vice President Operations for Hooters of America, states, "We are excited regarding this major expansion in New Zealand and continue to see great enthusiasm for growing the Hooters concept to locations all over the world." In the coming year, there are plans to open another 50 stores worldwide.

Michael Flinn spokesperson for New Zealand states: "Hooters continues to build broader brand awareness and a stronger international presence. This investment strongly supports our confidence in the Hooters brand along with the economic growth, favorable business climate and long-term growth potential of New Zealand."

Openings are planned for all of the major metropolitan areas throughout the country with initial locations being targeted for Auckland. Please contact Michael Flinn for additional information regarding Hooter's of New Zealand at (713) 974-8844.

The Hooters system uses television ads, the Hooters Magazine, the hooters Calendar and Hooters Girls billboards to advertise the concept. It also generates awareness through successful sports partnerships with the National Golf Association Hooters Tour and the United Speed Alliance Hooters Pro Cup racing series, as well as the Hooters IHRA racing series. These properties enjoy extensive television coverage and fan support. Other sponsored sports properties include Formula One Powerboat Racing, Professional Bass Fishing and AMA Motorcycle Team.

Hooters is very involved with charities and organizations nationwide through HOO.C.E.F, the Hooters Community Endowment Fund. The fund was started in 1992 and has raised and contributed over 8 million dollars to major non-profit organizations like Make-A-Wish Foundation, the V Foundation for Cancer Research, American Diabetes Association, Special Olympics, Muscular Dystrophy Association and the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation. Hooters of America, Inc. is the franchiser and operator of more than 400 Hooters restaurants in 46 states and 16 foreign countries.

The first Hooters opened in 1983 in Clearwater, Florida. Hooters is well known for its brand of food and fun, featuring a casual beach-theme atmosphere, a menu that features seafood, sandwiches and Hooters signature chicken wings, and service provided by the All-American cheerleaders, the Hooters Girls.

ENDS

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