More People are Disclosing a Sexual Assault at Applebee's, New Survey Finds

Glendale, CA - According to the results of a new nationwide survey, more Americans are disclosing a history of sexual assault at Applebee's than at any other casual dining restaurant.

An Applebee's customer, shown here smiling after disclosing to her child that she is adopted and enjoying a celebration song from waitstaff

"Frankly, we weren't surprised by these findings at all," Applebee's Chief Marketing Officer Joel Yashinsky explained. "Applebee's Neighborhood Grill and Bar is the place to be in the neighborhood, whether that means a place that our guests can count on for a delicious and affordable meal, refreshing and fun drinks, a come-as-your-are welcoming environment, or a supportive environment when choosing to talk to a loved one about an experience with sexual violence."

This marks the first time that Applebee's has achieved this distinction after more than 40 years of operation in the United States. According to culinary sociologist Gwenda Ham, this is the result of a shift in the chain's marketing focus over the past several years. "It didn't happen by accident. More than half of their 1,500 locations already have a trained sexual assault counselor on site for Club Applebee's members, and this will likely approach 100% within the next few years."

In celebration of the survey results, Applebee's is offering a sexual assault disclosure special offer through the end of September. Yashinsky believes that sexual assault can be a life-altering event that results in feelings of distrust and difficulty forging new relationships. "Because sexual assault is still so stigmatized, victims are less able to reach out for social support than after other types of traumas. They have so many hurdles to jump over, the least we can do is to help them start their week off strong with a juicy, handcrafted burger, secure in the knowledge that they can get a second burger for half price*.

*For a limited time at participating locations. Offer valid only on Mondays between 9/2/24 to 9/30/24 for online orders via the Applebee's website or mobile app only. Not valid on third party delivery sites. Limit one burger at half off per transaction. Half off burger must be of equal or lesser value. Not valid with any other offers, coupons, or discounts. Delivery coverage varies by restaurant. Restrictions may apply. © 2024 Applebee's Restaurants LLC.