When Judy Annunziata purchased her first Edible Arrangements franchise in 2006, she never expected that some day she would be a face of the franchise. But that's exactly what will happen beginning May 21 when the New York-based Annunziata is featured in the latest, whimsical "World of Edible Arrangements" TV commercial.
The commercial featuring Annunziata is the second in a series of new commercials inspired by Warner’s foodscapes. The first was launched just before Mother’s Day and company officials credit the new campaign as one reason the chain set all-time sales records during the week leading up to Mother’s Day.
This is Annunziata’s first venture into the world of advertising, and the owner of three New York franchises is ecstatic about being a part of the new advertising campaign.
“How many real franchise owners get to play such an important part of their national advertising? Not many,” she says, answering her own question. “To have real franchise owners involved is unique, just like our product.”
The brand caught Annunziata’s eye back in 2006 while she was working for Umberto’s, her father’s restaurant in Poughkeepsie, New York. When an Edible Arrangements franchisee inquired about renting space in her dad’s plaza, she was intrigued.
“I went to Discovery Day where I was introduced to the concept and its plans and after that day I decided to jump on board,” she says.
By late 2007, Annunziata had three locations of her own in Newburgh, Middletown and Monroe, New York. Her brother, Carmine, is a silent partner, and he and his wife can often be found helping out during the holiday rush.
Annunziata and her brother grew up working in the family restaurant. She took a brief detour from the entrepreneurial path as she delved into a paralegal career. But, after five years, she returned to her father’s restaurant as a full-time partner in 2001 where she stayed until jumping off into the world of Edible Arrangements.
And now, Annunziata has nothing but kudos to share about her new line of work.
There are four versions of commercial spot–some customized for special occasions such as spring, Father’s Day or Boss’ Day. In each version, Annunziata places a chocolate-covered strawberry in a box and then exclaims, “Where we guarantee freshness and happiness.”
She can personally vouch for the happiness part. “I'm extremely excited about these upcoming spots,” she says.
