Wednesday, February 21, 2007

Blessed Fish?

Here is something weird I came across today.

It seems that KFC, yes the chicken place, has asked Pope Benedict to bless their fish sandwich. I think the word they are looking for is endorse, not bless, but isn't this a clever marketing strategy.

You can read the article here.

Here is the press release:
The world's most popular chicken restaurant chain is offering fish for the first time nationally with the introduction of the new KFC® Fish Snacker. The company has asked the Pope himself for his blessing, with KFC President Gregg Dedrick sending a personal letter to the Vatican.

KFC's new Fish Snacker Sandwich, a tender, flaky filet of 100 percent Alaskan Pollack topped with tangy tartar sauce and served on a warm sesame bun, extends KFC's popular Snacker line-up and is ideal for American Catholics who want to observe Lenten season traditions while still leading their busy, modern lifestyles. The company has turned to Pope Benedict XVI, beseeching him to bestow his Papal blessing for this innovative new menu item. Vatican officials confirmed they received KFC's request, and the company is hopeful to get the Pope's blessing this Lenten season.

"People can enjoy the flavor of the new Fish Snacker any day of the week, but we believe it will be especially popular on Fridays," said James O'Reilly, Chief Marketing Officer for KFC. "It's perfect for an on-the-go lunch or any time of the day when you need a quick snack but don't want to sacrifice taste."

KFC has more than 5,500 locations across the country, which means Americans won't have to travel to Vatican City to find the New Fish Snacker. The KFC Fish Snacker costs 99 cents plus tax at participating restaurants -- a price that is significantly less than most restaurant-made sandwiches.

On another note, I do not give my blessing or endorsement to the KFC fish sandwich. I had one last year and didn't like it at all.

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