IHOP & Under Armour Team Up to Fuel Franchisee Success with Performance Footwear

Pasadena, CA – October 26, 2023 – IHOP Franchisor LLC, the team behind the iconic breakfast destination, today announced a strategic partnership offering exclusive access to Under Armour men’s shoes for its franchisees and their teams. This isn’t about flipping pancakes in fancy footwear – it’s about boosting comfort, safety, and overall wellbeing for the folks who keep IHOP running smoothly. For over 60 years, IHOP has been a cornerstone of American breakfasts, known for its warm hospitality and, of course, stacks of fluffy pancakes. IHOP Franchisor LLC, headquartered in Pasadena, California, doesn't just manage the IHOP brand; they're deeply invested in the success of the people who own and operate those restaurants. They understand that running a busy IHOP requires long hours on your feet. And that’s where Under Armour comes in. “We’re always looking for ways to support our franchisees and their teams,” says a spokesperson for IHOP Franchisor LLC. “We want to make their working lives as comfortable and safe as possible. We did some research, talked to franchisees, and realized that good, supportive footwear was a real need. Under Armour really stood out – the tech, the comfort, the durability – it just made sense.” Why Under Armour? More Than Just a Logo It’s easy to recognize the Under Armour logo, but what’s underneath that logo is where the real value lies. Under Armour isn't just a sportswear company; they’re innovators in athletic performance technology. For IHOP franchisees and their staff – cooks, servers, managers, and everyone in between – that technology translates into a major boost on the job. “Think about it,” explains a restaurant manager in a recent pilot program. “My cooks are on their feet for 8-10 hours straight, constantly moving in a hot kitchen. They need shoes that can handle that. The Under Armour shoes we tried out were a game changer. Less foot fatigue, less back pain, and honestly, just a more positive attitude.” Specifically, the selection includes several Under Armour men’s shoe models tailored to the demands of a restaurant environment: Charged Assert: A solid all-around performer, the Charged Assert provides cushioning and support for long shifts. It’s lightweight and breathable, keeping feet comfortable even in hot kitchens. This is a great go-to for servers and front-of-house staff. HOVR Phantom: Offering superior cushioning and a responsive feel, the HOVR Phantom is ideal for those who spend a lot of time walking and standing. This model provides excellent impact absorption, reducing stress on joints. Good for managers making rounds. UA Blitz: Designed for agility and quick movements, the UA Blitz offers a secure fit and flexible sole. This is a strong choice for cooks and kitchen staff who need to move quickly and efficiently. UA Lockdown: Built for stability and lateral support, the UA Lockdown provides a secure base for quick cuts and changes in direction. Another great option for kitchen crews. Key Features Benefitting IHOP Teams: Superior Cushioning: Under Armour’s signature cushioning technologies, like Charged and HOVR, absorb impact and reduce stress on feet, ankles, and knees. This is huge for people on their feet all day. Breathability: Many Under Armour shoes feature breathable materials that keep feet cool and dry, even during long, hectic shifts. Nobody wants sweaty feet! Slip Resistance: A crucial safety feature for restaurant environments, select Under Armour models feature durable outsoles that provide excellent traction on various surfaces. Keeping everyone safe is priority number one. Durability: Restaurant work is tough on shoes. Under Armour shoes are built to withstand the wear and tear of a busy environment. They’re an investment that lasts. Comfort & Support: A well-designed shoe can make a world of difference. Under Armour shoes provide the support and cushioning needed to keep IHOP teams comfortable and productive. More Than Just Shoes: A Commitment to Franchisee Wellbeing This partnership isn’t just about providing comfortable shoes; it’s about demonstrating IHOP Franchisor LLC's commitment to the wellbeing of its franchisees and their teams. They recognize that happy, healthy employees are more productive and provide better customer service. “We’ve had a lot of positive feedback from franchisees,” says the IHOP spokesperson. “They appreciate us taking the time to address a real need. It’s a small thing, but it shows that we care about their teams and their success.” IHOP Franchisor LLC plans to roll out the Under Armour footwear program to all its franchises over the next few months. They’re confident that this partnership will help to create a more comfortable, safe, and productive work environment for everyone involved. It's a win-win for IHOP, its franchisees, and, most importantly, the people who make those pancakes so delicious. About IHOP Franchisor LLC: IHOP Franchisor LLC is the owner of the IHOP master franchise. Headquartered in Pasadena, California, IHOP Franchisor LLC is responsible for the development, operations, and marketing of the IHOP brand across North America. Contact: IHOP Franchisor LLC 10 W Walnut St, 5th Floor Pasadena, CA 91103-3633 951-272-0214