• by Larissa Faw , November 7, 2016

Legendary Restaurants Brands [LRB] is naming Barker as its agency of record for the Bennigan's, Bennigan's On The Fly, and Steak and Ale dining franchies.

Barker will handle strategy, creative, promotions, product innovation, social media, franchise development, and media planning/buying.

The account was awarded after a formal review that included several undisclosed Dallas-based agencies, which had a hometown advantage over the New York-based indie ad agency. 

“We were probably a bit of a dark horse up against experienced agencies in the clients’ backyard, but we tend to do very well when the odds are against us," says John Barker, founder/chief idea officer, Barker. 

"That spirit is what really bonded us with the client. We already have their, 'Bleeding Irish Green,' 25/8 passion, that really meshes with the mission of [LRB]. “

The two companies are currently collaborating on holiday marketing programs and new product launches for Bennigan’s and Steak and Ale as well as for the client’s upcoming Global Owners’ and General Manager Conference in February of 2017. 

Bennigan’s and Steak and Ale are celebrating their 40th and 50th anniversaries, respectively, in 2016.