Krystal’s Best Ever Value Meal Features One Big Angus Burger, Two Famous Krystals, Fries and a Medium Drink

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. – Famous for its “Nothin’ Like It” menu items, The Krystal Company continues to introduce quality and value unlike any other in the quick service industry with its new $5 Value Meal, featuring Krystal’s Original Big Angus Burger, two Famous Krystals, fries and a medium drink.

“Other fast food chains may be offering value deals with certain menu items but only Krystal is offering a full meal with not one, not two, but three burgers, a side of fries and a drink–all at a great price,” said Fred Exum, chief executive officer, The Krystal Company. “There’s simply ‘Nothin’ Like It.”

The fast food icon is taking the guesswork out of ordering by combining the best of both Krystal burger worlds – big and small – all at an unbeatable value. Available now in restaurants systemwide, Krystal’s $5 Value Meal includes its two-handed, 100% Angus chuck burger made to order with the choice of seven Krystal toppings; two Krystal Burgers served hot off the grill on its famously small, square bun; a basket full of fries and a medium beverage.

The $5 Value Meal is attracting attention from Krystal Lovers all across the South, including Memphis, Tenn. native and music legend, Jason D. Williams. Williams, who has been a fan of Krystal for years, recently recorded a song for the Krystal $5 Value Meal in Nashville and filmed the Krystal commercial at a restaurant in Murfreesboro, Tenn. A number of behind-the- scenes photos, special recording clips and live videos can be seen on a special Krystal site, FamousKrystal.com, where guests also have the option to download the $5 Value Meal ringtone, listen to more great Williams’ originals and share with friends on Facebook and Twitter.

“Williams is known far and wide for his wild piano-playing style, and we were excited to have him put his personal spin on an original Krystal tune,” said Brad Wahl, vice president of marketing, The Krystal Company. “It’s been a fun way to communicate our value message, and many of the folks at Krystal’s Headquarters have already been heard singing the song up and down the halls. We have no doubt that our guests will be humming this catchy tune in no time.”

In addition to Krystal’s $5 Value Meal, the company has plans to launch a series of new food and beverage menu items and offers throughout the year for breakfast, lunch, dinner and various snack times. As an innovator in the quick service restaurant industry, Krystal remains dedicated to its vision to provide a great variety of ‘big taste’ food that can’t be found anywhere else.

About The Krystal Company

Founded in 1932, Krystal restaurants have become more than sparkling-clean eateries where friendly employees serve up fresh, delicious food. Krystal has become a cultural icon and an experience that virtually every man, woman and child in the South has shared. The Krystal Company is the oldest quick service restaurant chain in the South and the second oldest in the United States. The Chattanooga, Tenn.-based company currently has 386 restaurants in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia. For more information, visit www.krystal.com.

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Video Below: Krystal’s $5 Value Meal commercial with legendary recording artist, Jason D. Williams.

Media Contact:

Brian Cooley

Wicked Public Relations

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brian@wicked-pr.com

More than $1,500 in prizes to be given away on May 27 to an online audience via Facebook, Twitter and NationalHamburgerMonth.com

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. - Southern icon and fast food innovator for more than 76 years, The Krystal Company is capping off its month-long social media campaign in celebration of National Hamburger Month with “The Krystal Giveaway Show” on Wednesday, May 27.

The interactive event will broadcast live from the Krystal “3D” (Drive-In, Dine-In, Drive-Thru) restaurant in Chattanooga and stream live on the internet at NationalHamburgerMonth.com via Ustream.tv. The event is scheduled to take place from 10:00am to 4:00pm EST.

Throughout the day, Krystal will be giving away to an online audience more than $1,500 in prizes, including $100 Krystal Gift Cards and loads of Krystal goodies, from Krystal t-shirts and hats to Krystal memorabilia. Online viewers can also watch and interact with Krystal employees, including Brad Wahl, the vice president of marketing at The Krystal Company, in real-time via Facebook and Twitter. Viewers will be asked to answer trivia questions and complete challenges on social media sites for the chance to walk away with cool Krystal gear or a $100 Krystal Gift Card. Viewers will also get a behind-the-counter look at new menu items and Krystal’s new 3-D restaurant concept.

“We’ve already given away more than $1,000 in Krystal Gift Cards this month to our Facebook and Twitter friends, and we’re excited to have more fun and continue engaging with our guests online during our live, interactive Krystal Giveaway Show on May 27,” said Wahl. “This is just one of the ways we’re showing appreciation to all of our loyal Krystal Lovers online.”

Krystal has been celebrating National Hamburger Month all month long with a social media campaign and with the introduction of two, new savory Big Angus Burger flavor toppings–Bar-B-Q Bacon Cheese and Chili Cheesee–and a special $5 Krystal Burgers Basket Meal showcasing both Krystal’s Original Big Angus Burger and two Famous Krystal hamburgers. On May 1, Krystal launched NationalHamburgerMonth.com, allowing people to share their favorite Krystal hamburger with friends online via Facebook and Twitter. Krystal has also been awarding a $50 Krystal Gift Card each day to one of their fans on Facebook and Twitter.

Krystal is continuing its $50 Krystal Gift Card daily drawings until the end of May, giving guests more chances to win in addition to the $1,500 of prize giveaways on May 27. For more information about event details and prizes, visit NationalHamburgerMonth.com.

About The Krystal Company

Founded in 1932, Krystal restaurants have become more than sparkling-clean eateries where friendly employees serve up fresh, delicious food. Krystal has become a cultural icon and an experience that virtually every man, woman and child in the South has shared. The Krystal Company is the oldest quick service restaurant chain in the South and the second oldest in the United States. The Chattanooga, Tenn.-based company currently has 386 restaurants in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia. For more information, visit www.krystal.com.

Media Contact:

Brian Cooley

Wicked Public Relations

404.589.9888

cell: 404.316.7482

brian@wicked-pr.com

BJKF LLC Recognized for Its Commitment to Krystal Standards and Operational Excellence

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. - The Krystal Company, the fast food icon and innovator for more than 76 years, named Nashville, Tenn.-based franchise group, BJKF LLC, its 2008 Krystal Franchisee of the Year, an honor given annually to one franchise operator that exceeds a variety of designated requirements.

Owned by Nashville residents John and Rob Jewell, BJKF LLC is being honored for its commitment to Krystal standards, employee training, operational excellence and advancing the Krystal Brand. BJKF owns and operates 10 Krystal restaurants in the Nashville area and has a total of 24 Master Cashiers, a special designation by The Krystal Company that requires certification and recognizes employees for exceptional customer service and handling of cashier duties. All 10 of BJKF’s locations have fully completed Krystal’s modern, new store re-imaging showcasing a number of innovative and stylish design elements both inside and outside.

“Our franchise partners are the local businesses at the heart of The Krystal Company,” said Alan Wright, vice president franchise divsion, The Krystal Company. “This year we are pleased to recognize BJKF, an organization that has made significant contributions to the Krystal brand by maintaining an excellent management team, by providing intuitive forethought for new ways to improve operations and by delivering an exemplary customer experience every time.”

The Franchisee of the Year award criteria include sales, profit, employee turnover, customer complaints and standards that focus on food preparation and cleanliness. BJKF LLC was chosen from 48 Krystal franchisees based in 11 states. Franchise partners operate 148 of Krystal’s 386 restaurants.

Commenting on the acknowledgment from The Krystal Company, John Jewell shared, “We’re thrilled to be recognized by The Krystal Company. This award is a tribute to our extremely dedicated managers and employees who work diligently to ensure our guests receive the best Krystal experience each and every time they visit. We’re proud to have a total of 24 Master Cashiers and 10 Krystal Certified Managers all of who possess our same great pride for the Krystal brand.”

About The Krystal Company

Founded in 1932, Krystal restaurants have become more than sparkling-clean eateries where friendly employees serve up fresh, delicious food. Krystal has become a cultural icon and an experience that virtually every man, woman and child in the South has shared. The Krystal Company is the oldest quick service restaurant chain in the South and the second oldest in the United States. The Chattanooga, Tenn.-based company currently has 387 restaurants in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia. For more information, visit the Krystal website.

Media Contact:
Brian Cooley
Wicked PR
404.589.9888
cell: 404.316.7482
brian [at] wicked-pr.com

Month-long celebration to include launch of NationalHamburgerMonth.com and social media event featuring more than $3,000 in prizes via Facebook, Twitter and a live, streaming video “Krystal Giveaway Show” on May 27

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. - Southern icon and fast food innovator for more than 76 years, The Krystal Company is giving its guests BIG reasons to celebrate National Hamburger Month this May. In honor of America’s favorite sandwich, Krystal is introducing two, new savory Big Angus Burger flavor toppings–Bar-B-Q Bacon Cheese and Chili Cheese–along with a special $5 Krystal Burgers Basket Meal showcasing both Krystal’s Original Big Angus Burger and two Famous Krystal hamburgers.

And the celebration won’t just taste great either. It will also reward guests all month long as Krystal launches the website NationalHamburgerMonth.com and hosts a 31-day social media event featuring more than $3,000 in prizes and a live, streaming video “Krystal Giveaway Show” broadcast from Chattanooga on May 27.

“We’ve been serving up great tasting hamburgers, both big and small, over the past 76 years, and we’re excited to celebrate National Hamburger Month this May with two new Big Angus Burger offerings as well as a great basket meal offer that puts the spotlight on both the Famous Krystal and our Big Angus Burger,” said Fred Exum, chief executive officer, The Krystal Company. “Featuring all-Angus beef and premium-only toppings, our Big Angus Burgers are the hamburgers the other guys don’t want you to know about.”

The Bar-B-Q Bacon Cheese and Chili Cheese Big Angus Burgers are both made to order with premium ingredients and served hot off the grill as a Basket Meal that includes a heaping pile of fries and tasty beverage. The Bar-B-Q Bacon Cheese Big Angus Burger features a large, 100% Black Angus chuck patty smothered in a Sweet and Spicy Bar-B-Q sauce and is topped with crispy bacon, American cheese, fresh lettuce, diced grape tomatoes, chopped onions and pickles. The two-handed, big Chili Cheese Big Angus Burger comes complete with Krystal Pup chili, shredded cheddar cheese and a dollop of mustard to maximize flavor.

Krystal’s special $5 Krystal Burgers Basket Meal will be offered in restaurants systemwide beginning May 11. Available for a limited time only, the meal includes Krystal’s two-handed Original Big Angus Burger, two Famous Krystal hamburgers, a generous pile of french fries and a refreshing beverage - all at an unbeatable value of only $5.

While guests will be busy enjoying Krystal hamburgers all month long, Krystal will also keep them busy interacting online at NationalHamburgerMonth.com and on Facebook, Twitter and Ustream.tv. The interactive campaign will engage guests with 31 days of giveaways on Facebook and Twitter and encourage interaction via a live, streaming video “Giveaway Show” on May 27, the Official Krystal Hamburgers Day. Broadcast via Ustream.tv from Krystal’s “3-D” (Drive-In, Dine-In, Drive-Thru) restaurant in Chattanooga, the webcast will have Krystal employees, including Vice President of Marketing Brad Wahl, interacting with Krystal Lovers online throughout the day while giving away $100 Krystal Gift Cards and loads of Krystal goodies, including gear and memorabilia.

To participate in the various social media events, guests are encouraged to become fans of Krystal on Facebook and followers on Twitter. Over $3,000 worth of Big Angus Burgers, Krystal Gift Cards and Krystal goodies will be given away throughout the entire month of May. For more information and event details, visit NationalHamburgerMonth.com.

“We’re actively engaging our guests on a number of social media sites already, and for National Hamburger Month, we’re going to have even more fun with them by giving away gift cards and prizes every single day of May,” said Brad Wahl, vice president of marketing, The Krystal Company. “It will be a great opportunity to put a face behind the brand and speak with our guests one on one, especially during our day-long live web event on May 27.”

In addition to Krystal’s new Big Angus Basket Meals, the company has plans to launch a series of new food and beverage menu items throughout the year for breakfast, lunch, dinner and various snack times. As an innovator in the quick service restaurant industry, Krystal remains dedicated to it’s brand statement, “Nothin’ like it!”.

About The Krystal Company

Founded in 1932, Krystal restaurants have become more than sparkling-clean eateries where friendly employees serve up fresh, delicious food. Krystal has become a cultural icon and an experience that virtually every man, woman and child in the South has shared. The Krystal Company is the oldest quick service restaurant chain in the South and the second oldest in the United States. The Chattanooga, Tenn.-based company currently has 387 restaurants in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia. For more information, visit the Krystal website.

Media Contact:
Brian Cooley
Wicked PR
404.589.9888
cell: 404.316.7482
brian [at] wicked-pr.com

Restaurant is the latest in Krystal’s development of company-owned locations across the South featuring innovative design elements and exciting new menu choices

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. - The Krystal Company’s development of company-owned restaurants across the South continues with the announcement of a new company-owned Krystal in Panama City Beach, Fla., scheduled to open this summer. Located at 9958 Hutchison Blvd., the new Krystal follows recent openings of company-owned restaurants in Alabama, Texas, South Carolina, Tennessee and Northeast Mississippi.

Featuring Krystal’s complete line-up of signature menu items along with exciting new menu choices for breakfast, lunch, dinner and snack time, the state-of-the-art Krystal in Panama City Beach will also showcase a number innovative design elements, including a sleek, stylish interior and in-store digital menu boards that display animated food photography and meal options depending on the day part. Guests can expect to see this three-panel display concept in the interior of all new restaurant openings throughout 2009, with a similar digital drive-thru menu board coming soon.

The new Krystal will also offer credit card and debit payment options and will be an official “Krystal HotSpot,” offering free Wi-Fi Internet access to guests seven days a week.

“We are excited to open a brand new Krystal in Panama City Beach as part of our recent expansion of company-owned stores in both existing and new markets across the South,” said Fred Exum, chief executive officer, The Krystal Company. “The restaurant will feature our newest design and the most advanced menu board and ordering technology, allowing us to better serve our guests and create an enjoyable dining experience. Whether it’s breakfast, lunch, dinner or snack time, guests can expect a great variety of menu choices served up with great hospitality, all at an unbeatable value.”

The new Krystal in Panama City Beach will showcase the fast food icon’s full line-up of signature product offerings that are distinctive in size and shape, served fresh, hot off the grill and perfect for anytime of the day. Among these popular items includes the famous Krystal Hamburger, served hot off the grill with fresh onions and topped with mustard and a pickle; the Krystal Chik, made with 100% whole breast chicken filet and served on the famous small, square bun; the Krystal Pup, a Krystal-sized hot dog served with or without chili; and Breakfast Scramblers, a line-up of traditional plate breakfasts stacked smartly in a bowl and conveniently enjoyed scrambled up or layer by layer.

The restaurant will also offer a number of new products that complement Krystal’s core menu items. Krystal’s new line of Big Angus Burger Basket Meals, each featuring 100% Angus beef topped with grape tomatoes, lettuce and cheese, served in a basket with a heaping pile of fries and tasty drink; MilkQuakes, a new line of real ice cream milkshakes made with premium, all-natural ingredients; and Krystal Freezes, the company’s new frozen slush drink made from pure-cane sugar and fruit flavorings, are just a few of the exciting new products guests can enjoy year round at the Panama City Beach Krystal.

Guests dining in at the new Krystal will enjoy a fresh interior design that pays tribute to the traditional Krystal look while showcasing the company’s modern, new image. The interior spaces are bright and shiny, harking back to Krystal’s heritage with white tile, chrome, shiny stainless steel, and very clean, contemporary appearances.

The Krystal Company

Founded in 1932, Krystal restaurants have become more than sparkling-clean eateries where friendly employees serve up fresh, delicious food. Krystal has become a cultural icon and an experience that virtually every man, woman and child in the South has shared. The Krystal brand – and the great food, service, value and setting that it represents – has taken a prominent place in the South’s cultural landscape. The Krystal Company is the oldest quick service restaurant chain in the South and the second oldest in the United States. The Chattanooga, Tenn.-based company currently has nearly 400 restaurants in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia. For more information, visit the Krystal website.

Media Contact:
Brian Cooley
Wicked PR
404.589.9888
cell: 404.316.7482
brian [at] wicked-pr.com

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. – Sylacauga, Ala. residents will no longer have to go far to satisfy their Krystal cravings. Announced today, The Krystal Company will open its first Krystal restaurant in Sylacauga on Monday, Mar. 16 at 6:30 a.m. Located at 1309 Fort Williams St., the new Krystal location means local residents can now drive just around the corner to enjoy Krystal’s great variety of big taste food you simply can’t get anywhere else, all at an exceptional value.

Joining more than 15 Krystals in the Birmingham metro area, the new state-of-the-art restaurant will feature advanced drive-thru ordering technology, credit card and debit payment options, a sleek, stylish dining area and the company’s complete line-up of signature menu items along with exciting new menu choices. It will also be an official “Krystal HotSpot,” offering free Wi-Fi Internet access to guests seven days a week.

“We are thrilled to offer a convenient location for Sylacauga area residents and also expand our presence in Birmingham—one of Krystal’s largest heritage markets to date,” said Fred Exum, chief executive officer, The Krystal Company. “Along with our signature menu items, the new Krystal will feature all of our exciting new menu options, including our two-handed Big Angus Burgers and new line-up of premium MilkQuakes and Freezes. Whether it’s breakfast, lunch, dinner or snack time, guests can expect a great variety of menu choices served up with great hospitality, all at an unbeatable value.”

The new Krystal in Sylacauga will showcase the fast food icon’s full line-up of signature product offerings that are distinctive in size and shape, served fresh, hot off the grill and perfect for anytime of the day. Among these popular items include the famous Krystal hamburger, served with fresh onions and topped with mustard and a pickle; the Krystal Chik, made with 100% whole breast chicken filet and served on the famous small, square bun; the Krystal Pup, a Krystal-sized hot dog served with or without chili; and Breakfast Scramblers, a line-up of traditional plate breakfasts stacked smartly in a bowl and conveniently enjoyed scrambled up or layer by layer.

The restaurant will also showcase a number of new product offerings that complement Krystal’s core menu items. MilkQuakes, a new line of real ice cream milkshakes made with premium, all-natural ingredients, and Krystal Freezes, the company’s new frozen slush drink made from pure-cane sugar and fruit flavorings, are just two of the exciting new products guests can enjoy year round at the Sylacauga Krystal.

Guests dining in at the new Krystal will enjoy a refreshing, efficient design that pays tribute to the traditional Krystal look while showcasing the company’s modern, new image. The interior spaces are bright and shiny, harking back to Krystal’s heritage with white tile, chrome, shiny stainless steel, and very clean, contemporary appearances.

Krystal’s expansion into the Birmingham area is the latest move in the company’s plans to grow its business through the development of company-owned stores, both in heritage markets and in new markets across the South. By the end of 2009, a total of 20 new company-owned restaurants will have opened in the past two years, adding more than 800 jobs in local markets in at least 11 states.

About The Krystal Company

Founded in 1932, Krystal restaurants have become more than sparkling-clean eateries where friendly employees serve up fresh, delicious food. Krystal has become a cultural icon and an experience that virtually every man, woman and child in the South has shared. The Krystal Company is the oldest quick service restaurant chain in the South and the second oldest in the United States. The Chattanooga, Tenn.-based company currently has 387 restaurants in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia. For more information, visit www.krystal.com.

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Media Contact:
Brian Cooley
Wicked Public Relations
404.589.9888
cell: 404.316.7482
brian@wicked-pr.com

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. - The Krystal Company, the fast food icon famous for its big taste menu items you simply can’t get anywhere else, named Rus Morris of Prattville, Ala. its 2008 Krystal Franchise General Manager of the Year. The honor is given annually by The Krystal Company to one general manager that exceeds a variety of designated requirements.

A superb leader and general manger of the Prattville Krystal since Dec. 2002, Morris is being recognized for his commitment to Krystal standards, employee training, operational excellence and for advancing the Krystal brand. Most notably, Krystal is proud to acknowledge Morris for his excellent management team including eight certified Master Cashiers, a special designation that requires certification and recognizes employees for exceptional customer service and handling of cashier duties.

“Here at Krystal, we believe our franchise general managers are the heart of The Krystal Company’s franchisee locations, as they are ultimately responsible for their local restaurant’s success,” said Alan Wright, vice president franchise divsion, The Krystal Company. “This year we are pleased to honor Rus Morris, a man who continually goes above and beyond in customer service, employee training, sales and vision.”

Celebrating his seventh year with Krystal, Morris is excited to add his new title of 2008 Krystal Franchise General Manager of the Year to his roster of achievements. Morris’ additional accomplishments with The Krystal Company include The President’s Club award, an honor bestowed to managers that maintain or exceed a specified sales revenue per year–evidence that his operation has made significant contributions to the Krystal brand.

In addition to gaining the notoriety that comes with his new accolade, Morris and his wife will receive an all-paid vacation of their choosing valued at $10,000 and be recognized in front of more than 400 company-wide employees.

Commenting on the acknowledgment from The Krystal Company, Morris shared, “It’s an honor to be recognized, and this award is really a tribute to all the dedicated managers and employees who work hard everyday, making certain that our customers receive the best Krystal experience each and every time they visit.”

Morris credits much of the company’s success to the sense of pride that he and his team have for The Krystal Company. “As a seven-year Krystal veteran, I’ve always taken great pride in the legacy and strength of the Krystal brand. I’ve tried to instill that same sense of pride into my team, and the fact that many of my staff members, my Master Cashiers in particular, have worked to advance themselves within the company is just one example of that personal pride,” said Morris.

Krystal franchise owner, Gene Montgomery, adds, “My wife, Janet, and I opened the Prattville Krystal in Dec. 1997 and are proud of the work from our entire staff, especially our Production Leader, Annie Williams, who has been with us since opening day.” Montgomery continues, “I commend Morris on his management abilities, as I truly believe the caliber of our employees and their longevity with the company are the main contributors to the success we have all enjoyed.”

The Krystal Franchise General Manager of the Year award criteria includes performance evaluation on sales, profit, employee turnover, employee training, operations, customer complaints and standards that focus on food preparation and cleanliness. Morris was chosen from over 148 Krystal franchise general managers in 11 states for this honor. Franchise partners operate 148 of Krystal’s 387 restaurants.

About The Krystal Company

Founded in 1932, Krystal restaurants have become more than sparkling-clean eateries where friendly employees serve up fresh, delicious food. Krystal has become a cultural icon and an experience that virtually every man, woman and child in the South has shared. The Krystal Company is the oldest quick service restaurant chain in the South and the second oldest in the United States. The Chattanooga, Tenn.-based company currently has 387 restaurants in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia. For more information, visit www.krystal.com.

Media Contact:
Brian Cooley
Wicked Public Relations
404.589.9888
cell: 404.316.7482
brian@wicked-pr.com

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. – The Krystal Company’s invasion into Northeast Mississippi continues. The fast food icon announced today that it will open a new, state-of-the-art Krystal restaurant in Columbus, Miss. on Monday, Feb. 16. Located at 2121 Hwy 45 North, the restaurant officially opens its doors at 6:00 a.m. and will feature advanced drive-thru ordering technology, credit card and debit payment options, free Wi-Fi Internet access, a sleek, stylish dining area and the company’s complete line-up of signature menu items along with exciting new menu choices.

The new restaurant in Columbus is the third Krystal location to open in Northeast Mississippi over the past several months. In October, the company celebrated the opening of a new restaurant in Tupelo, located at 2615 West Main Street, and this past November, a new Krystal opened in Starkville at 808 Hwy 12 West.

“This has been an exciting time for both The Krystal Company and our guests in Northeast Mississippi as we continue to grow our presence in the area,” said Fred Exum, chief executive officer, The Krystal Company. “Like our new restaurants in Starkville and Tupelo, the Columbus Krystal will serve up a great variety of ‘big taste’ food you simply can’t get anywhere else. Our guests can expect great hospitality and a great value—not just in price but also in quality.”

The new Krystal in Columbus will showcase the fast food icon’s full line-up of signature product offerings that are distinctive in size and shape, served fresh, hot off the grill and perfect for anytime of the day. Among these popular items include the famous Krystal Hamburger, served hot off the grill with fresh onions and topped with mustard and a pickle; the Krystal Chik, a deliciously small, square chicken sandwich; the Krystal Pup, a Krystal-sized hot dog served with or without chili; and Breakfast Scramblers, a line-up of traditional plate breakfasts stacked smartly in a bowl and conveniently enjoyed scrambled up or layer by layer.

The restaurant will also showcase a number of new product offerings that complement Krystal’s core menu items. MilkQuakes, a new line of real ice cream milkshakes made with premium, all-natural ingredients, and Krystal Freezes, the company’s new frozen slush drink made from pure-cane sugar and fruit flavorings, are just two of the exciting new products guests can enjoy year round at the Columbus Krystal.

Guests dining in at the new Krystal will enjoy a refreshing, efficient design that pays tribute to the traditional Krystal look while showcasing the company’s modern, new image. The interior spaces are bright and shiny, harking back to Krystal’s heritage with white tile, chrome, shiny stainless steel, and very clean, contemporary appearances. The Krystal location will operate seven days a week and accept payment by credit and debit card. It is also an official “Krystal HotSpot,” offering free Wi-Fi Internet access to guests.

Krystal’s expansion into Northeast Mississippi is the latest move in the company’s plans to grow its business through the development of company-owned stores, both in heritage markets and in new markets across the South. By the end of 2009, a total of 20 new company-owned restaurants will have opened in the past two years, adding more than 800 jobs in local markets in at least 11 states.

About The Krystal Company

Founded in 1932, Krystal restaurants have become more than sparkling-clean eateries where friendly employees serve up fresh, delicious food. Krystal has become a cultural icon and an experience that virtually every man, woman and child in the South has shared. The Krystal Company is the oldest quick service restaurant chain in the South and the second oldest in the United States. The Chattanooga, Tenn.-based company currently has 385 restaurants in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia. For more information, visit www.krystal.com.

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Media Contact:
Brian Cooley
Wicked Public Relations
404.589.9888
cell: 404.316.7482
brian@wicked-pr.com

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. - There is a saying in the Krystal culture that “everyone has a Krystal story,” and this year’s class of Krystal Lovers Hall of Fame inductees include some of the best tales to date. A former NFL great and renowned college football coach who once shipped a “gourmet” Krystal meal on dry ice to a friend, a Louisiana woman who drove three hours round-trip so she could tailgate for the Super Bowl at her favorite Krystal, The Krystal Company’s two founders who opened the first Krystal restaurant amid the Great Depression, the company’s very first customer whose famous order became the popular choice for millions of future guests and a “professional” Krystal box stacker who participates in friendly competitions with friends and family are among the newest inductees for 2008.

The honor, bestowed each year upon the company’s most diehard and dedicated guests, celebrates the one-of-a-kind stories that have helped make Krystal a Southern cultural icon ever since its founding in 1932. The 15 inductees, who represent more than 10 cities and six states, were selected from several thousand e-mails and letters submitted over the past year, and to commemorate the honor, each of the new Krystal-ebrities will be featured on his or her very own Krystal Hamburger or Cheese Krystal box, the same legendary hamburger containers that are nearly as famous as the fresh, hot, small, square hamburgers they hold.

“We’re thrilled to welcome 15 new members into the Krystal Lovers Hall of Fame,” said Fred Exum, chief executive officer, The Krystal Company. “We once again have an exceptional group of inductees, including the two visionaries who founded Krystal more than 75 years ago, and we’re excited to share their one-of-a-kind Krystal stories with all of our guests by featuring each inductee’s face and story on the packaging of our Famous Krystal hamburger.”

Each inductee’s box will be officially unveiled at a special ceremony held at his or her favorite Krystal restaurant and will then be used in the nearly 400 Krystal restaurants across the South beginning this January.

Each box will include an illustration of the Hall of Famer, a quote that describes his or her passion for Krystal as well as personal facts such as the inductee’s hometown and favorite Krystal meal. Each inductee will also be recognized with an official plaque that will hang in the restaurant, and he or she will also be forever preserved on the Krystal Lovers Hall of Fame website at www.krystal.com.

The 15 inductees who will be officially enshrined into the Krystal Lovers Hall of Fame include: Bill Curry of Atlanta, Ga.; Rody Davenport, Jr. and J. Glenn Sherrill of Chattanooga, Tenn.; Gator Harrison of Cookeville, Tenn.; Angel Figueroa of San Antonio, Texas; Anne Person of Cleveland, Tenn.; Gabby Champion of Baton Rouge, La.; Everett Duke of Phenix City, Ala.; Sally Jones of Rome, Ga.; John Evans of Jacksonville, Fla.; French Jenkins of Chattanooga, Tenn.; Hall Hunt of Jacksonville, Fla.; Jim Simmons of Hixson, Tenn.; John Hires of Jacksonville, Fla.; Susan Collins of Chattanooga, Tenn. and Robert, Joey and Steven Clark of Houston, Texas.

A sampling of inductees stories include:

A Gourmet Meal on Dry Ice

Bill Curry is no stranger to accolades. Recently hired as Georgia State University’s first football coach, the College Park native and former NFL great has racked up numerous awards and titles over 17 plus years as a college coach, including being named ACC Coach of the Year in 1985, an SEC Championship title in 1989, winning Bobby Dodd Coach of the Year honors in 1989 and being inducted into the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame in 1992. And now, thanks to his lifelong love of Krystal, Curry can add Krystal Lovers Hall of Fame member to his growing list of achievements. An occasional guest on ESPN’s popular sports-talk radio show, “Mike & Mike in the Morning,” which broadcasts live from Connecticut, Curry once promised host Mike Golic that he would Fed-Ex him a seven-course meal from the very best restaurant in the South. While Golic likely had a fancy, fine-dining establishment in mind, Curry chose Krystal. And the meal: seven delicious Krystal hamburgers served up in their legendary hamburger boxes. Thinking Golic might be miffed that his gourmet meal was seven hamburgers instead of a royal feast, Curry confronted him on the air to capture his reaction live. “Those hamburgers,” said Golic, “They didn’t even make it to the refrigerator! I ate them in one sitting, and they were delicious.” Curry noted, “You just can’t beat the taste of Krystal hamburgers, even when they are mailed in dry ice all the way to Connecticut.”

A Super Bowl to Remember

In the South, tailgating could almost be considered its own sport, especially during the Super Bowl. Some people set up in stadium parking lots or in their driveways, but for Gabby Champion and her friends, the Krystal restaurant in Slidell, La. is the place to tailgate. Champion has always been a Krystal fan, but with no Krystal locations in her hometown of Baton Rouge, she has to drive three hours round trip to satisfy her Krystal cravings. Needless to say, it always helps when she has a good reason to make the journey. This February, that reason was the Super Bowl. Champion rounded up the crew and headed to Slidell, more than 90 miles away. Tailgating with those tasty little, square Krystals was all they needed to make this Super Bowl Sunday one they would never forget. Now, Champion continues to make regular road trips to the Slidell Krystal with her fellow Krystal buddies. It takes dedication to be a true Krystal Lover and Champion is in for the long haul.

The Start of a Southern Icon

When Krystal founders Rody Davenport, Jr. and J. Glenn Sherrill opened the first Krystal restaurant in Chattanooga, Tenn. in 1932, they knew the concept would be favored in the community but had no idea that their “unique sandwich shop” would be an instant success and develop into a Southern icon. Knowing that everyone has to eat, the two young businessmen—Davenport was 26, Sherrill, 27, at the time—turned their dream into a reality during The Great Depression in order to offer a great-tasting product that people could afford, even in the worst of economic times. Customers flocked to the small building with the spotless chrome and tile fittings to perch upon the six stools and enjoy hot-off-the-grill Krystals. This innovative, “Krystal-clean” restaurant design coupled with the ground-breaking business of food “to go” and the introduction of new menu items continued to make Davenport and Sherrill trendsetters in the industry. The Krystal Company is now the oldest quick service restaurant chain in the Southeast, and although the two leaders died young, their concept of offering “big taste” food at an appealing price lives on more than 75 years later.

Krystal’s First Customer

On Oct. 24, 1932, the nation’s first Krystal restaurant opened in a small building at the southwest corner of Seventh and Cherry streets in downtown Chattanooga. For French Jenkins, this was no ordinary day, but the day that he became Krystal’s legendary first customer. Legend has it that as Jenkins sat at one of Krystal’s six stools, a waitress at the counter shouted out his order, “Six Krystals and a cup of joe on 1,” telling the cook that she needed six Krystal hamburgers for stool number one. This famous order, which was then served on real china, will forever be embedded in Krystal’s history as customers order up Krystals by the Sackful.

Krystal’s “Mr. Steamer Pack”

Hall Hunt, better known as Hall “Hoover” Hunt, didn’t get his nickname for nothing! As one of the world’s top professional eaters and a member of the Major League Eating (MLE) organization, the 26-year-old makes a living out of his ability to consume food in a vacuum-like fashion. A lifelong fan of Krystal, Hunt was excited when Krystal started the Krystal Square Off World Hamburger Eating Championship, an eating competition featuring one of his favorite foods – the famous Krystal hamburger. Since competing in his first Krystal Square Off in 2005, Hunt has consumed thousands of Krystals during his training regimen, a feat that has earned him the title of “Mr. Steamer Pack” at his local Jacksonville, Fla. Krystal restaurant. Hunt’s dedication and hard work has more than paid off. This past September, he broke Joey Chestnut’s Jacksonville Krystal-eating record by devouring 60 Krystals in eight minutes, and he went on to better that mark at the world championship in Chattanooga, where he consumed 63 Krystals and won $2,000. While most people might want to take a break after eating thousands of Krystals, as a true Krystal lover, Hunt is already planning to compete in next year’s Krystal Square Off, his fifth to date.

Professional Krystal Box Stacker

When it comes to Krystal lovers, not many people stack up against Gator Harrison. Growing up in Sparta, Tenn., Harrison was first introduced to Krystal at a very young age, and when he headed off to college at Middle Tennessee State University, Harrison began dabbling in the fine art of Krystal box stacking. His most famous creation at the time: “The Krystal Man,” a life-sized abstract human form that became a permanent figure in his dorm room. Still a Krystal lover in adulthood, Harrison continues to compete with his brothers, friends and old college roommates, judging his creations on height. However, sometimes creativity prevails! Harrison gathers boxes by ordering his favorite four cheese Krystals meal and by collecting packaging from fellow guests he encounters at the restaurant. After years of practice, Harrison now considers himself a “professional” Krystal box stacker. This past year, Harrison’s youngest daughter, Roman, just turned old enough to enjoy her first Krystal. Harrison has high hopes that she will continue his box-stacking legacy.

The Krystal Monument

Robert, Joey and Steven Clark have been avid Krystal lovers ever since the Houston Krystal opened in 2005, making weekly trips to the neighborhood eatery to pick up their favorite Krystal meal. After eating a countless number of Krystal’s signature Steamer Packs, the brothers decided it was time for a permanent representation and reminder of Krystal’s greatness, hence the birth of The Krystal Monument. After hundreds of visits to the restaurant and 2.5 years of saving 450 of the legendary Krystal boxes, the three completed a 7-foot-tall, scale model of the Washington Monument. Now every time Robert, Joey or Steven enjoy a savory meal from Krystal, they can be seen with lasting smiles on their faces after the last french fry is eaten because they are basking in the glory of their personal Krystal creation, which lives on forever in their Houston home!

The Krystal Lovers Hall of Fame

The Krystal Lovers Hall of Fame was first created in October of 2005 as a way for Krystal to recognize and celebrate its most devoted and passionate customers. Those interested in sharing a Krystal Lovers story should visit the Krystal Lover section of the Krystal website at www.krystal.com and share in detail their unique experience or passion for the Krystal brand.

The Krystal Company

Founded in 1932, Krystal restaurants have become more than sparkling-clean eateries where friendly employees serve up fresh, delicious food. Krystal has become a cultural icon and an experience that virtually every man, woman and child in the South has shared. The Krystal brand – and the great food, service, value and setting that it represents – has taken a prominent place in the South’s cultural landscape. The Krystal Company is the oldest quick service restaurant chain in the South and the second oldest in the United States. The Chattanooga, Tenn.-based company currently has more than 400 restaurants in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia. For more information, visit www.krystal.com.
the Krystal website.

Media Contact:
Brian Cooley
Wicked PR
404.589.9888
cell: 404.316.7482
brian [at] wicked-pr.com

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. - Fast food icon Krystal is celebrating Valentine’s Day all month long this February with the introduction of its new Chocolate-Dipped Strawberry MilkQuake and the announcement of its Top Krystal Lovers Love Stories of 2009.

Available now at Krystal restaurants systemwide, the new Valentine’s Day-themed MilkQuake offers Krystal guests a deliciously thick and creamy new treat to enjoy throughout the official month of love while five couples from across the South will be recognized on Valentine’s Day for tales of love connections being made and romances kept alive thanks to Krystal’s famous hot and steamy menu items.

“We are very lucky to have such a loyal following of Krystal Lovers, and it’s no surprise that with a countless number of visits to our restaurants, many of these fans fall in love with more than just our tasty little, square Krystals,” said Brad Wahl, vice president, The Krystal Company. “We encourage and even reward these fun love stories, which is why Krystal is celebrating the month of love with an intimate Krystal Dinner Package for seven special couples. We can’t think of anything more romantic this Valentine’s Day holiday than sharing our new Chocolate-Dipped Strawberry MilkQuake at Krystal.”

Krystal’s Chocolate-Dipped Strawberry MilkQuake is made with all-natural ingredients including premium vanilla ice cream and real strawberry puree all mixed with HERSHEY’S Magic Shell and topped with light, airy whipped cream. The Chocolate-Dipped Strawberry MilkQuake is served in a 20 oz. cup at the suggested price of $2.99.

Individually made to order, the Chocolate-Dipped Strawberry MilkQuake is a decadent new flavor addition to the company’s already popular line of premium milkshakes, which includes traditional milkshake flavors Chocolate, Vanilla and Strawberry, and for a limited time, the French Vanilla MilkQuake, a rich and creamy milkshake perfect for the true vanilla lover.

While new romances are blossoming over the Chocolate-Dipped Strawberry MilkQuakes, five couples who have sealed their love with a Krystal will receive special recognition from the company as having the best “Krystal Lovers Love Stories” of 2009. Selected from hundreds of emails, the chosen couples will each receive a romantic Krystal Lovers’ Dinner package perfect for this Valentine’s Day.

The special gift will contain all the necessary ingredients needed to create an intimate dinner at the couple’s favorite Krystal restaurant, including a $100 Krystal Gift Card, linen tablecloth and napkins, candles and more.

“Krystal Lovers” Love Stores for Valentine’s Day 2009:

A Dozen Cheese Krystals for Valentine’s Day

Red roses on Valentine’s Day – it’s so cliché. Don’t all women want a significant other who puts a little more thought into the gift? Well, Nanette Davis of Calhoun, Ga. is lucky to be married to a man who does just that. And even better, her husband Ronnie is smart enough to know that the way to woman’s heart is always through her stomach, which is why Davis gets a dozen Cheese Krystals from her hubby every year. Combine his genius rationale with the best food in town and you’ve got one hot and steamy Valentine’s Day – literally.

Love at First Sight of Krystal

How do you know when you’ve got a keeper? First dates are usually too soon to tell, but Gina Nelson of Macon, Ga. knew exactly how to win the keys to her husband Paul’s heart. They had it all planned out – tickets to the rodeo with friends and dinner afterwards, but all the restaurants were closed except Krystal. Paul didn’t have to ask her twice. Turns out she’s been a Krystal Lover all her life. He said, “I knew Gina was a keeper when her eyes lit up like Krystal’s ‘hot-off-the-grill’ neon sign!” The couple ordered a Sackful and took them back to the house to enjoy with friends. Still today, Krystal remains a part of their anniversary tradition.

Krystal Cravings Create Romance

Many couples have monthly date nights, maybe even weekly, but several times a week? It must be true love, right? Well, it’s definitely a true love of something. Morgan and Ashley Geoghagan agree that they enjoy spending time together, but their craving for Krystal is the main reason for all those evenings alone. Morgan states, “Our love for Krystal keeps our relationship alive and for us, there’s nothing more romantic than that.”

A Krystal Lover’s Dream Wedding

Southerners are known for crazy groom’s cakes that are themed with a favorite football team or mascot, but the bride usually keeps it traditional. On the contrary, Megan Rucker of Rockwood, Tenn. proved this theory wrong. There was nothing conventional about her wedding cake and not one of Rucker’s guests complained. And how could they with a gigantic three-tiered tower of little, square tasty Krystals cooked to perfection, topped with a miniature bride and groom? It was a Krystal Lover’s dream and for Megan and Todd Rucker – a Krystal Lover’s dream wedding.

The Krystal Secret to 20 Years of Marriage

Twenty years – that’s a long time to be married. People always ask, “What’s the secret?” Fortunately, Travis and Tammy Holder of Lewisburg, Tenn. know the answer: “A little bit of love and whole lot of Krystals!” In August of 1988, Holder took his new wife to the local Krystal in Murfreesboro, Tenn. to eat their first dinner as a married couple, which soon became a ritual for the two. Only 20 short years later, Travis Holder took his wife back to Krystal to celebrate another milestone with his wife – their 20th wedding anniversary. He lovingly stated, “This is the place where I plan to be another 20 years from now.”

The Krystal Company

Founded in 1932, Krystal restaurants have become more than sparkling-clean eateries where friendly employees serve up fresh, delicious food. Krystal has become a cultural icon and an experience that virtually every man, woman and child in the South has shared. The Krystal brand – and the great food, service, value and setting that it represents – has taken a prominent place in the South’s cultural landscape. The Krystal Company is the oldest quick service restaurant chain in the South and the second oldest in the United States. The Chattanooga, Tenn.-based company currently has nearly 400 restaurants in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia. For more information, visit the Krystal website.

Media Contact:
Brian Cooley
Wicked PR
404.589.9888
cell: 404.316.7482
brian [at] wicked-pr.com