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EXHIBIT 99.1
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, July 26, 2000
Statement by Sizzler USA
MILWAUKEE, July 26 /PRNewswire/ -- The operator of a Sizzler(R) franchise
restaurant in Milwaukee, Wisconsin is working closely with health department
officials to determine how several area food poisoning cases may have originated
at that restaurant. The problem appears to be limited to this particular
restaurant.
All Sizzler(R) restaurants adhere closely to the Food and Drug
Administration's Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point guidelines (HACCP)in
food preparation. Sizzler(R) restaurants follow HACCP procedures to assure that
guests enjoy the highest possible food safety and cleanliness standards at all
times.
Sizzler USA Chief Executive Officer Thomas E. Metzger, FMP is contacting the
families of those involved directly to express concern and to offer whatever
resources may be helpful. Metzger and a team of Sizzler USA representatives are
flying to Milwaukee to provide assistance.
Sizzler USA is confident that the owner of its franchise restaurant is taking
all necessary steps, including cooperating with health department officials and
closing the restaurant, to facilitate a rapid investigation. Sizzler USA and
all of its franchise stores, have long enjoyed a strong record in the restaurant
industry for safety and cleanliness.
Sizzler USA is based in Culver City, California and operates 65 company-owned
restaurants as well as 200 Sizzler(R) franchises nationwide.
