At a time when square fish patty sandwiches are ubiquitous on seafood menus across the United States, the Captain D’s fast casual restaurant chain is featuring quality whole filets of flounder this Lenten season with the special Founder Feast promotion at 533 restaurants in 21 states.
Catholics and other Christians around the world observe Lent for 40 days, starting on February 14 and running until the Thursday before Easter, March 29. During this period many adherents refrain from eating meat on Fridays and engage in acts of penance.
Leading the lineup is hand-breaded Southern-Style Flounder. Served with a choice of two side dishes and hush puppies for $4.99, the premium fish also is available grilled and served with a shrimp skewer on a bed of rice.
Captain D’s Southern-Style Flounder is available fried or grilled.“This time of year, every QSR brand is pushing square fish patties,” said Bob Kraut, the company’s chief marketing officer. “At Captain D’s, we feel our guests shouldn’t have to settle for less, which is why we are proud to offer quality seafood options during the Lenten season and year-round.”
Additionally, the chain’s menu will be supplemented with fried oysters, which typically are not offered by QSR or fast casual restaurants.
“We provide a wide range of options that keep seafood interesting all year and appeals to the most discerning seafood enthusiasts,” said Kraut.
Fried Oysters is a new menu offering at Captain D’s.A new publicity campaign stars the restaurant’s D-Gull “spokesbirds,” Desmond and Dave, in an animated commercial that demonstrates their distaste for square fish patty sandwiches. Desmond is clearly not satisfied with the product and therefore phones in a complaint – “because if it isn’t Captain D’s, it isn’t worth it.”
Expanding Footprint
Meanwhile, the Nashville, Tennessee-headquartered chain recently signed franchise development agreements that will broaden its presence in key markets throughout the US Midwest and Southwest. This growth will bring new restaurants to the greater Dallas, Texas; St. Louis, Missouri; and Columbus, Ohio regions.
“Captain D’s continued success has reinforced our position as the leader of the fast casual seafood segment. Our business model and franchisee support have helped us attract new candidates as well as fuel growth from our existing franchise system. We’re excited to accelerate these development efforts further in 2018,” said Michael Arrowsmith, the company’s chief development officer.
He continued: “Texas, Missouri, and Ohio are each key regions in our overall growth strategy, as we geographically expand the footprint of our brand. We are pleased to be developing new restaurants with such experienced franchisees who share our passion and commitment to providing an exceptional dining experience.”
