Krystal restaurants across 11 states took time Wednesday to thank their loyal customers by offering the iconic hamburger for a quarter.  Members of the Krystal Team sported 80th anniversary T-shirts, cheered and waved to customers driving in queues wrapped around restaurants as they made their way toward their orders.

Krystal sold 1.1 million of the burgers in Krystal’s 350 franchised and company-owned restaurants, during the event. 

“Krystal is part and parcel of the Southern experience,” said CMO Tom Peterson. “All of us were moved to see so many people come out to celebrate the launch of our 80th anniversary.  This is only the beginning as we’ll continue to have events throughout the upcoming year as our way to thank customers and share the Krystal experience.” 

“Our founder’s vision in 1932 was to provide customers the very best food at the lowest possible price, served in a spotlessly clean restaurant with quick and courteous service,” said CEO Doug Pendergast.  “The Krystal Kreed  continues to be our focus  today, as we mark this milestone which both embraces our heritage and celebrates a very vibrant future.” 

While this event took place during the lunch hour, other events and activities are being planned at various times.  

It was noted that the idea for “Krystals for a Quarter” came from posts from the restaurant’s Facebook friends.  More than 20,000 posts were made to support the effort which drew thousands of customers to more than 350 Krystal restaurants.  

Mr. Pendergast noted that within five years, the brand’s goal is to have 500 restaurants in place across the south.  “While we took the time to thank our customers, we also wanted to take this opportunity to thank our dedicated team members and franchisees.  Thanks to their hard work, we had a great day and look forward to future efforts planned throughout the coming year.”

Krystals for a Quarter:  By the Numbers

Krystals for a Quarter Day
Number of Krystals sold during the event:  1.1 million
Number of Krystal Team Members Serving Customers:  5,250
Average Number of Krystals Served Per Team Member: 210
Pounds of Beef Used:  23 tons
Pounds of Onions Used: 1.4 tons
Gallons of Mustard Used: 425
Pounds of Pickles Used: 4.4 tons
Pounds of Bread Used:  68,750
Number of Grills Used: 2,200
Number of Balloons Inflated:  8,750
Fastest service given during the event by the Cherokee Boulevard Restaurant in Chattanooga:  3.5 Minutes
Overall increase in ingredients purchased over last year:  100 percent
Number of Facebook “Likes” During the Event:  25,250
Number of Facebook “Likes/Shares/Talking About”: 81,500