Down, Set, Pizza Hut

Posted: October 9, 2014, 4:43 p.m.
by Michelle Pierce.

Finally. My favorite season has arrived — tailgating season. It’s the season that brings everyone together through mouth-watering food and fun. When looking for ways to contribute to the tailgating menu, don’t think twice. Bring a pizza. It’s simple, easy and delicious.

No matter what season it is, the little red roof has got you covered. From its cheesy, bacon-stuffed crust to its personal conversations on Twitter, Pizza Hut’s iconic brand continues to grow. Two brothers, Danny and Frank Carney, served their first pizza from a little building resembling a hut on June 15, 1958. They handed out free slices of pizza to the locals as the brand’s first form of public relations.

Over time, social media has helped the “little hut” evolve into “the most recognizable international pizza restaurant in the world.” Pizza Hut utilizes its Twitter page to participate in creative, down-to-earth conversations with its consumers. It’s an engaging way for the brand to show its personality while effectively forming customer relationships. According to Meruki, a social media analytics tool, Pizza Hut has almost 20,000 more conversations on Twitter than it does on Facebook. The enticing tweets not only promote the brand, but work as a driving force behind the support and respect of its customers.

Communication is key. Twitter gives brands the power to participate in conversations and maintain a positive brand image. Sprout Social explained how interactions between a company and its customers are similar to a relationship: “Failure to communicate can make it feel pretty one-sided, ultimately leading to a break-up.” Pizza Hut has built such a large fan base through its rapid response rate and individual replies to its followers.

As an international pizza brand, Pizza Hut not only knows how to make a great pizza, but it understands the concept of connecting with customers through appealing images, hip lingo and unbeatable promotions. The brand’s entertaining content interests people who may not even eat pizza. Pizza Hut scores a touchdown for its social media presence, positive brand image and consistent customer engagement. You can score, too, if you bring a cheesy bacon-stuffed crust pizza to your next tailgate.