Following a year of PR wins, City Barbeque strengthens its partnership with omnichannel marketing leader
Dallas, TX (RestaurantNews.com) City Barbeque, the popular midwestern restaurant, has named Champion its public relations agency of record, solidifying a partnership that has already delivered extraordinary results.
Since signing on in mid-2024 during the brand’s 25th anniversary, Champion has had a measurable impact, securing over 40 TV segments and 80 media placements, resulting in more than $1 million in media value and 107 million daily impressions.
“Champion has truly moved the needle in a short amount of time,” said Co-Founder Rick Malir or CEO Mike Muldoon. “Their strategic approach and focused execution have delivered real results and made a direct impact on our business. We look forward to building on this momentum and establishing a long and successful partnership.”
City Barbeque, a popular BBQ brand out of Ohio, has served up slow-cooked goodness since the late ’90s. What started as a local favorite expanded across its home state into Georgia, North Carolina, Florida and Michigan. Known for its deep roots in the communities it serves, City Barbeque keeps fans coming back with crave-worthy limited-time menu items.
Since launching the partnership with Champion, the brand has introduced bold, flavorful creations like Brisket Chili, Brisket Frito Pie, Frito Sausage Sandwich and Smoked Pastrami. City Barbeque also brought back its jalapeno cheddar sausage in late Fall to great fanfare and excitement.
“City Barbeque dominates the midwestern BBQ scene, and we couldn’t be more proud to support them as they introduce their incredible brand and menu to new communities around the country,” said Ladd of Champion. “Their commitment to quality and innovation has helped them stand out in the hyper-competitive BBQ space. We love collaborating with brands like City Barbeque that push the envelope and help them find inventive ways to engage their loyal – and soon-to-be loyal – fans.”
Champion is partnering with City Barbeque to tap into consumer trends of BBQ fans – keeping the brand in front of enthusiastic consumers. This includes securing executive speaking opportunities at top trade conferences, positioning City Barbeque for prestigious industry awards and driving restaurant growth through thought leadership and strategic storytelling.
Champion’s strategic approach blends creative storytelling with data-driven insights to showcase City Barbeque’s unique story and bold flavors. Through local, national and trade media outreach, user-generated content, engaging influencer collaborations and loyalty program promotions, Champion is helping drive City Barbeque’s continued success into 2025 and beyond.
For more information, visit CityBBQ.com or follow City Barbeque on social media.
About City Barbeque
City Barbeque has been proudly serving the flavor of America since opening its first joint in 1999. Today, teams at more than 70 locations smoke meats on-site over local hickory wood and prepare homemade sides and desserts fresh every day. The fast-casual brand operates in 10 states and counting, serving the city’s best barbeque for dine-in, carryout, delivery and catering. For more information, visit City Barbeque at CityBBQ.com, Facebook, Instagram or TikTok.
Contact:
Jay Brasher
Champion
jbrasher@championmgt.com
