Hiya all. I was rather intrigued today as to whether Applebee's had yet formulated an official corporate response to the incident. I called today and left a request for info with Investor Relations (couldn't get through to PR or corp. communications). I also referenced the fact that Applebee's, since it is a strong supporter of Alex's Lemonade Stand pediatric cancer foundation, surely they must be in support of breastfeeding, as breastfeeding has been shown to be a leading factor in reducing the incidences of the most common types of pedicatric cancers...
Well, I got a message back on my phone line (I was out for a bit) from a man named Alex Brizette (sp?), whose title is Applebee's International Guest Relations Manager. Here is his response:
"I am calling with the corporate response you requested - and the corporate
response to the breastfeeding in Lexington, Kentucky is that Applebee's and its franchisees love having families dine together at our restaurants. We believe that this francihisee made a reasonable and lawful request of this guest in order to promote a pleasant and comfortable experience for all of its guests."
He then left his number and invited me to call him back if I have any further
questions. Here is the number he left: 913-967-2923.
Also, I called Senator Buford's office, and let them know that I had received the official corporate response from Applebee's, and sent the info on to Sen. Buford this afternoon via email.
Thought you'd all like to know what the official corporate response is! Shocking, eh?
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Take care, all.