HoJo Brings Back Iconic Clam Strips in Celebration of Centennial--but with a Twist
MWN-AI** Summary
In a delightful nod to its storied past, Howard Johnson (HoJo) has introduced a unique twist on its iconic fried clam strips, celebrating 100 years of family-friendly hospitality. Instead of the traditional dish, the brand has launched limited-edition HoJo's Original Fried Clam Soap. This whimsical product, designed to evoke nostalgia, features notes of lemon, sea salt, and a hint of butter—echoing the original clam strips that made the chain famous.
Guests at select Howard Johnson hotels across the U.S. can obtain a complimentary box of the clam soap by using the phrase "fried clams" at check-in, a playful marketing strategy that infuses retro charm into the experience. The soap, designed to resemble the classic fried dish, will also be available for online purchase starting October 3 for those who cannot visit a participating hotel.
Marissa Yoss, Head of Marketing at Howard Johnson by Wyndham, expressed that the soap represents a fun tribute to the brand's heritage, while serving as a reminder of the memorable journeys families have taken over the years with HoJo. Limited to just 100 boxes, the soap is priced at $19.25—a nod to the company’s founding year.
The history of Howard Johnson dates back to 1925 when Howard Deering Johnson transformed a humble soda fountain into a successful restaurant chain. Today, HoJo remains a symbol of Americana, with retro-modern hotels designed to evoke fond memories while incorporating contemporary comforts. The clam soap initiative, combined with its classic orange roofs, emphasizes HoJo’s ongoing commitment to family moments and enduring hospitality. Visitors can explore more at HoJo.com, where the line between nostalgia and modernity beautifully blends.
MWN-AI** Analysis
In an interesting marketing twist, Howard Johnson (HoJo) has resurrected its iconic clam strips in a unique way to mark its centennial. This time, the brand introduced “Original Fried Clam Soap,” combining nostalgia with innovation. While this may seem like a gimmick, there are underlying market implications that potential investors and stakeholders should consider.
The launch not only aims to attract loyal customers reminiscing their childhood road trips but also attempts to engage a younger demographic that appreciates quirky, limited-edition products. By coupling nostalgia with a novelty item, HoJo creates a sense of urgency and exclusivity. Priced at $19.25—reflecting the year of HoJo's inception—this strategy aligns with current consumer trends toward experiential and collectible products.
From an investment perspective, this kind of marketing can enhance brand visibility and foster customer engagement. It’s likely that social media buzz, amplified by influencers and nostalgic marketing, will draw attention to the brand. Therefore, investors should keep an eye on any fluctuations in stock performance of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: WH), HoJo's parent company.
Furthermore, this creative push could lead to an increase in foot traffic at participating hotels. The promotional offer of free soap boxes for hotel guests reinforces the brand's commitment to customer experience, potentially improving occupancy rates in the short term.
In conclusion, while HoJo's fried clam soap may seem unconventional, it embodies a calculated approach to brand revival. Investors should monitor the outcome of this campaign as an indicator of broader consumer sentiment toward retro and whimsical products and overall brand engagement strategies in the hospitality sector.
**MWN-AI Summary and Analysis is based on asking OpenAI to summarize and analyze this news release.
PR Newswire
Limited edition fried clam soap is a sudsy, retro surprise; available at select hotels for a brief time and for purchase online starting October 3
PARSIPPANY, N.J. , Sept. 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Get ready to lather up with nostalgia. In celebration of 100 years of retro roadside family fun, Howard Johnson® is bringing back one of its most legendary menu items—the fried clam strip—but not in the way you think. Introducing HoJo's Original Fried Clam Soap, a sudsy tribute to a dish as iconic as the brand's unforgettable orange roofs, available today at select Howard Johnson hotels across the U.S. and for purchase online later this month.
Designed to look just like the crispy classics that helped put HoJo on the map, these limited-edition soaps are anything but fishy, thanks to infusions of lemon, sea salt and yes, just a hint of butter—an homage to the butter soaked rolls the strips were once served with.
"Howard Johnson is a brand woven into America's cultural fabric and beloved by millions for generations. As we celebrate 100 years, our limited-edition fried clam soap is a fun, nostalgic tribute to the brand's storied past and a playful nod to the retro-modern, family-friendly spirit that continues defining our hotels today."
– Marissa Yoss , Head of Marketing, Howard Johnson by Wyndham
How to Get Yours
For the next three weeks, guests staying at one of five participating HoJo hotels across the U.S. can request a complimentary box of soap at the front desk by mentioning the code words "fried clams" upon check-in. Up to ten boxes will be available per hotel, each distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Hotel reservation must have been made prior to Sept. 16 . A full list of participating locations—from Anaheim, Calif. to Ocala, Fla.—is available here .
Can't make it to a hotel but still want to get your hands on this one-of-a-kind collector's item? Starting at noon ET on Friday, October 3 , soaps will also be available for purchase at HoJo.com for $19.25 each before tax, a nod to the brand's founding. Fans must act fast, as only 100 boxes are available. Free shipping included. Limit one per household. U.S. residents only. Learn more at HoJo.com/100 .
"For the last 100 years, the HoJo brand has been synonymous with family road trips, celebrations, and everyday moments turned into lifelong memories. It's a testament to the legacy of our founder, Howard Deering Johnson , and a powerful reminder that the most meaningful journeys are the ones we share with others."
– Anthony Pizzuto , Brand Leader , Howard Johnson by Wyndham
A Legacy of Hospitality
The Howard Johnson story began in 1925, when Howard Deering Johnson , a young entrepreneur running an apothecary in Quincy, Mass. , noticed customers flocking to the soda fountain inside his shop. From that small counter, Johnson expanded into roadside stands, full-service restaurants, and eventually the iconic, orange-roofed hotels that made the brand a staple of American travel.
A century later, that roadside Americana legacy lives on, particularly in today's HoJo hotels, where retro-modern guestrooms blend nostalgia with modern comfort. Bold pops of orange, sleek vinyl headboards, and crisp white linens set the scene, while playful details—like a marshmallow-shaped mirror and custom artwork inspired by the iconic gate lodge roofline—add a wink of whimsy. It's the classic HoJo experience, thoughtfully reimagined for today's traveler. Learn more at HoJo.com .
About Howard Johnson by Wyndham
For over a century, Howard Johnson (HoJo) has been part of America's travel story—welcoming generations with its iconic orange roofs, friendly service, and family-friendly spirit. Today, the brand—one of 25 of under Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: WH)—continues that proud legacy with retro-modern inspired guestrooms, thoughtful amenities, and a playful spirit that blends nostalgia with contemporary comfort. Book your next stay at HoJo.com or visit WyndhamDevelopment.com for franchising opportunities. You can also like and follow the brand on Facebook and Instagram .
SOURCE Wyndham Hotels & Resorts
FAQ**
How does the limited-edition fried clam soap align with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Inc. WH's broader marketing strategy to engage customers during the centennial celebration?
What measures are in place to ensure the success of the fried clam soap promotion for Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Inc. WH, particularly regarding scarcity and demand?
How might the nostalgic appeal of HoJo's fried clam soap translate into increased bookings at Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Inc. WH across the participating locations?
In what ways does this promotion reflect Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Inc. WH's commitment to blending nostalgia with modern hospitality practices?
**MWN-AI FAQ is based on asking OpenAI questions about Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Inc. (NYSE: WH).
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