ARBY'S Responds to America's Obsession With the Sandwich.

Business Editors

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--June 4, 2003

Consumer Research Drives Test Marketing of New Bistro Sandwiches

and Expansion of Market Fresh(TM) Product Line

Responding to the changing tastes of the American consumer and its continued obsession with the ultimate sandwich, Arby's, will launch a series of new products taking its sandwich expertise to the next level. According to a recent Harris interactive survey, consumers indicated that the sandwich rules for lunch. 51% of those polled preferred a sandwich (deli or gourmet) vs. 14% who preferred a burger, 10% choosing soup and 24% a salad. Arby's consumer research took an even deeper dive into consumer specific preferences when it comes to sandwiches and revealed that today's consumer wants even more variety, gourmet flavor combinations, high quality ingredients and gourmet bread.

To satisfy consumers insatiable appetite for a broader selection of sandwiches with fresh ingredients, Arby's will take its "Oven Fresh, Oven Good" promise and continue to elevate the company's offerings beyond its core product of roast beef. The move, which will focus on providing a variety of gourmet quality selections, will entail the creation of a new line of Bistro Sandwiches to be tested in two markets as well as the expansion of its made-to-order Arby's Market Fresh(TM) deli-style sandwiches.

"We must consistently keep our finger on the pulse of American consumers' ever changing tastes and needs," stated Arby's president and CEO Michael Howe. "Listening and responding to consumer demands means constant additions and improvements to our product line. We do business in a highly competitive arena, and only the companies that remain nimble and responsive to consumers' preferences will win in the marketplace."

Listening to consumers desire for high quality sandwiches, the company will test a new line of Bistro Sandwiches in Flint, MI and Charleston, SC. The Bistro line of sandwiches will go a step further on the gourmet scale featuring a more sophisticated taste experience. The line up will include exciting flavor combinations, textures, and premium quality ingredients including the highly in-demand artisan-style breads. Some of the Bistro sandwich selections include: Ham Dijon Royale made with oven roasted ham, thick-cut pepper bacon, aged cheddar, tomato, mixed field greens and honey Dijon sauce on a soft baguette; Portofino Turkey made with oven roasted turkey, smoked mozzarella, marinated Portobello mushrooms, roasted red peppers, mixed field greens and balsamic vinaigrette on savory herb focaccia; California Chicken Salad made with all-white chicken salad, red delicious apples, grapes, chopped celery and toasted pecans with green leaf lettuce on a soft baguette and the Asiago Turkey made with oven roasted turkey, Asiago cheese, tomato slices, mixed field greens and sun-dried tomato Parmesan spread on savory herb focaccia. The Bistro sandwiches will be available in these test markets the first week of June. The new line will be supported by television, radio, print and outdoor advertising as well as point of purchase in store.

The company will also expand nationally its line of Arby's Market Fresh(TM) Sandwiches, which include distinctive breads, premium quality lean meats, and innovative cheeses and sauces. In early summer Arby's(R) will refocus on the Market Fresh Ultimate BLT Sandwich made on honey wheat bread; mid-summer, the new LTO Market Fresh Five-Star Club on harvest white bread; and late summer, the Market Fresh Roast Turkey Ranch and Bacon on honey wheat bread.

Arby's, Inc., d/b/a Triarc Restaurant Group, a subsidiary of Triarc Companies, Inc. (NYSE:TRY), services more than 3,300 single- and dual-branded restaurants worldwide, including Arby's, T.J. Cinnamons(R) and Pasta Connection(R) brands.