Parker’s Kitchen Partners with Georgia Southern Athletics

Statesboro, Georgia

Parker’s Kitchen has announced a long-term partnership with Georgia Southern Athletics, marking a significant investment in both the university and the local community. This partnership is set to last for four years and represents Parker’s first Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) collaboration.

As part of the partnership, Georgia Southern football player Davion “Chewy” Rhodes will become the face of the new Parker’s Kitchen Chewy Rhodes Hot Honey Combo. Rhodes shares the same nickname as Parker’s iconic mascot, enhancing brand recognition within the community. The newly branded Chewy Rhodes Hot Honey Combo will be prominently featured across digital platforms, social media campaigns, in-store marketing, and during game-day events.

The partnership debuted during Georgia Southern’s home football game against the University of Maine Black Bears on September 20, demonstrating a commitment to enhancing the experience for both student-athletes and fans of Eagle Nation. Chris Davis, the Director of Athletics at Georgia Southern University, emphasized that this partnership connects fans to beloved brands like Parker’s Kitchen, reflecting the affection the community has for the company.

Community Commitment

Brandon Hofmann, the CEO of Parker’s Kitchen, expressed enthusiasm regarding the partnership, underlining the company’s commitment to investing in Georgia Southern University and its athletics program. In addition to promoting athletic excellence, the partnership will also include a newly branded student entrance for home football games at Allen E. Paulson Stadium.

Background of Partnership

This new collaboration follows a previous significant contribution from Greg Parker, the founder and Executive Chairman of Parker’s Kitchen, who donated $5 million to Georgia Southern University in 2018 to establish the Parker College of Business. This past donation illustrates the longstanding relationship between Parker’s Kitchen and Georgia Southern University.

Parker’s Kitchen Overview

Parker’s Kitchen operates a total of 103 stores across Georgia and South Carolina, employing over 1,800 team members. The company handles approximately 1.1 million transactions weekly and is actively expanding into new markets, including Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, Jacksonville, Florida, and Columbia, South Carolina.

Philanthropic Efforts

Over the past eight years, Parker’s Kitchen has made substantial contributions to various causes, donating more than $30 million in support of education, healthcare access, the fight against childhood hunger, and assistance for local veterans. This philanthropic commitment aligns with the values of community partnership exemplified by the new agreement with Georgia Southern Athletics.

The establishment of this partnership not only strengthens the bond between Parker’s Kitchen and the university but also enhances the overall experience for the students and fans in the Statesboro area.