IHOP Partners with Bose to Bring Sound Sanctuary to Breakfast Tables Nationwide

Pasadena, CA – November 8, 2023 – IHOP FRANCHISOR LLC, the team behind the iconic breakfast destination, today announced a surprising, yet delightful, collaboration with audio giant Bose. Forget just fluffy pancakes and endless coffee, IHOP is now aiming to elevate the entire dining experience – starting with sound. They're rolling out Bose QuietComfort headphones in select locations, aiming to give guests a little pocket of peace with their breakfast. IHOP, headquartered at 10 W Walnut St, 5th Floor, Pasadena, CA, 91103-3633, United States (and reachable at 951-272-0214 if you’re really craving pancakes) is known for being a comfortable, family-friendly spot. They've always focused on making folks feel at home, and this new initiative takes that a step further. “We’re all about creating a great experience for our guests,” explains David Dietz, VP of Marketing at IHOP. “And that doesn’t stop at the food. Sometimes, you just need a moment of calm, even while enjoying a short stack. That’s where the Bose QuietComfort headphones come in.” So, what’s the deal? IHOP isn’t just handing out headphones willy-nilly. They’re setting up designated “Quiet Zones” in select restaurants. These areas, easily identifiable with comfy seating and a peaceful vibe, will offer sanitized Bose QuietComfort headphones for guests to borrow during their meal. Think of it as a little escape, a pocket of tranquility amidst the morning rush. “We realized a lot of our guests are on the go,” Dietz continues. “They're catching up on emails, making calls, or just trying to start their day with a little peace before the chaos begins. We wanted to give them a way to do that, right at their table.” Why Bose QuietComfort? IHOP’s Choice for a Calmer Breakfast It wasn’t a random pick. IHOP did their research. Bose QuietComfort headphones are famous for their noise cancelling. And we're not talking about just blocking out a little chatter. These headphones are seriously good at tuning out the world. Think screaming kids, bustling traffic, loud conversations – all muffled into a distant hum. “We needed something that really worked,” says Sarah Miller, IHOP’s Head of Customer Experience. “We tried a few different brands, but the Bose QuietComfort headphones were the clear winner. The noise cancellation is top-notch, and they’re also really comfortable, even for longer breakfasts. Plus, the sound quality is fantastic – whether you’re listening to music, a podcast, or just enjoying the silence.” The headphones aren't just about blocking out sound. They also deliver a really rich audio experience. Bose is known for its clear, balanced sound, which means music sounds great, podcasts are easy to understand, and audiobooks come to life. IHOP is even considering pre-loaded playlists of calming music or nature sounds to enhance the experience. How Does it Work? It’s surprisingly simple. When you’re seated in the Quiet Zone, just ask your server for a pair of headphones. They’ll be thoroughly sanitized between each use, ensuring a safe and hygienic experience. You can connect your own device via Bluetooth, or IHOP may offer curated content options in the future. “We’re starting with a limited rollout in a few locations,” explains Dietz. “We want to see how guests respond and make adjustments as needed. But we’re really excited about the potential of this program.” IHOP isn’t just slapping some headphones on tables and calling it a day. They've thought about the whole experience. The Quiet Zones are designed to be cozy and inviting, with comfortable seating and soft lighting. Servers are being trained on how to assist guests with the headphones and ensure a smooth experience. IHOP is also committed to maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness and sanitation. More Than Just Headphones: IHOP’s Commitment to Guest Wellbeing This isn’t just a marketing gimmick. IHOP sees this initiative as part of a broader commitment to guest wellbeing. They recognize that people are increasingly stressed and overwhelmed, and they want to create a space where they can relax and recharge. “We want IHOP to be more than just a place to eat,” says Miller. “We want it to be a place where people can feel good, both physically and mentally. And we believe this program can help us achieve that.” The company is also exploring other ways to enhance the dining experience, such as offering healthy menu options, providing free Wi-Fi, and creating a more sustainable environment. The Future of Breakfast? Could this be the start of a new trend? Will other restaurants follow suit and offer noise cancelling headphones to their customers? Only time will tell. But one thing is certain: IHOP is pushing the boundaries of what a breakfast experience can be. “We’re always looking for ways to innovate and surprise our guests,” says Dietz. “We want IHOP to be known for more than just great pancakes. We want it to be known for creating a truly memorable and enjoyable experience.” So next time you’re craving a short stack, consider heading to an IHOP with a Quiet Zone. You might just find your breakfast comes with a side of serenity. And who doesn’t want a little more of that?