• by Fern Siegel , May 1, 2024

Ball Park Franks has entered the debate about condiments atop hot dogs.

The company ran an open letter to the Chicago Sun-Times April 28 and May 1 noting the controversy: putting ketchup on franks.

The piece noted: "We understand the passion and pride that Chicagoans hold for their culinary traditions, and we respect the rich history behind this iconic hot dog. However, we also firmly believe in the fundamental right to enjoy a hot dog in whatever way brings joy."

The company also launched an impromptu campaign, which Ogilvy Chicago and Mindshare put together in a week.

It includes out-of-home and digital ads featuring opinions from real people, geo-targeted Chicago ads via Meta and TikTok, and a display of brand assets near Chicago’s Navy Pier, including cab toppers, urban panels, bus and train stations.

Ball Park, which became the official hot dog of the Detroit Tigers in 1958, makes hot dogs, hamburger buns and patties, is owned by Tyson Foods.

The newspaper letter ends with a plea: "...let us not be divided by condiment controversies but united in our love for the humble hot dog in all its glorious variations."