James Coney Island wins American Marketing Association award

Pictured are: Alfonso Hernandez, director of purchasing for James Coney Island, and Stacey Eddington, president of the American Marketing Association Houston Chapter.

James Coney Island was honored as Houston's top restaurant marketer at the American Marketing Association Houston Chapter 2011 Marketer of the Year Awards.

Of the more than 145 Houston-area companies, 34 were named by AMA as "Best of" category winners, representing the most exceptional marketers in Houston.

JCI was recognized for the rollout of its new, expanded menu and its positioning as an "American Grill" and more than "just hot dogs." The changes grew its customer base and increased guest frequency while staying true to the company's heritage. AMA recognized the company for its in-store promotions, increasing purchase value and leveraging social media channels for brand awareness and loyalty.

Winners were chosen and scored by a panel of local marketing professionals before a specially selected group of marketers reviewed and voted.