Chick-fil-A's Big Birthday Bash: A Mix of Old and New

Chick-fil-A is marking its 80th anniversary with a huge marketing campaign, bringing back retro styles and introducing new items to attract customers. This is their biggest campaign ever, featuring collectible cups, special merchandise, and a chance to win free food for a year.

A Focus on "Newstalgia"

The restaurant industry is facing challenges with fewer customers visiting. Chick-fil-A, known for its iconic chicken sandwiches, is using its anniversary to draw in more diners. The campaign kicks off with a focus on "newstalgia," a blend of new ideas and nostalgic touches.

Collectible Cups and Giveaways

• Retro-Inspired Cups: Four designs rolling out over the coming weeks, priced at $3.99 each.
• Golden Fan Cup Giveaway: 3,000 lucky customers who buy a collectible cup could win free Chick-fil-A for a year.

New Menu Items and Merchandise

• Vintage Packaging: Special packaging for the iconic chicken sandwich.
• Themed Merchandise: Available online, including limited-edition stuffed cows.
• Frosted Sodas and Floats: Added permanently to the menu, along with more limited-time items throughout the year.

Campaign Highlights

The campaign will also be featured at the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl, a major college football game. Chick-fil-A started in 1946 as The Dwarf Grill in Georgia and has grown into the third-largest restaurant chain in the U.S., with plans to expand internationally.

Financial Insights

Despite its success, Chick-fil-A faced slower sales growth in 2024, marking the first year in over a decade with less than double-digit growth. The company remains privately held, so financial details are not publicly disclosed. However, its system sales reached $22.74 billion in 2024, showcasing its significant presence in the industry.