Back Yard Burgers, Inc., the Memphis-based chain with operations in 16 states, announced on January 3, 2000 it’s contribution of $100,000 to the Memphis Zoo’s Capital Improvement Campaign.
The gift was announced at a news conference at which Back Yard Burgers, Inc., and the Zoo made public a 10-year extension of the company’s contract as exclusive supplier of food service at the famous Memphis attraction.
Lattimore Michael, founder and CEO of Back Yard Burgers, said, “The partnership between Back Yard Burgers and the Memphis Zoo has proven to be such a success that both parties agree it is time for us to enter into a long-term commitment.
“And part of that commitment is the agreement by Back Yard Burgers to give the Zoo $10,000 a year over the 10-year life of the agreement.
“Back Yard Burgers is extremely proud to call Memphis its corporate home, and we know of no better way to express our devotion to Memphis than to make this substantial financial commitment to one the city’s greatest attractions.”
The company and the zoo signed an agreement in April for the restaurant chain to serve the Back Yard Burgers menu at the Zoo’s main Cat House Cafe and to manage all food and beverage concessions at the Zoo.
Back Yard Burgers currently operates and franchises 88 quick-service restaurants in 16 states. The chain specializes in char-broiled menu items, and markets itself as achieving the same high-quality and special taste typified by outdoor grilling in one’s own back yard. Its menu features hamburgers, chicken sandwiches, hot dogs, salads, chili and other special entrees, as well as lemonade and ice cream novelties.
