Source: BroBible
Summary
Destination Smokehouse, a California restaurant, is facing backlash after its employee Walter Johnson, who popularized the “Tendernism” catchphrase, claimed he was fired. The restaurant’s owner, Nick Yepremian, denies firing Johnson and says he was trying to trademark the catchphrase. The controversy has led to calls for a boycott, with comedian Godfrey urging fans to support Johnson instead. The restaurant appears to be empty in recent days.
Our Reading
The habit gets a new name.
Destination Smokehouse’s “Tendernism” drama is a perfect example of how a catchy phrase can become a marketing tool. The restaurant’s owner tries to trademark it, while the employee who popularized it claims he was fired. The controversy sparks a boycott, and the restaurant’s reputation takes a hit. The real question is: who owns the “Tendernism” movement?
Brandishing a catchphrase as a personality.
Trademarking a phrase that was popularized by an employee.
Boycotts as a form of social media activism.
Walter Johnson’s food truck: the ultimate form of revenge.
Author: Evan Null
