QDOBA Partners with Lockheed Martin to Fuel F-35C Lightning II Pilots with Fresh, Customizable Mexican Eats

SAN DIEGO, CA – November 8, 2023 – QDOBA FRANCHISOR LLC, the fast-casual Mexican grill known for its customizable bowls, burritos, tacos, and salads, today announced an unexpected, yet undeniably delicious, partnership with Lockheed Martin to provide fresh, high-quality meals to the brave pilots and crew maintaining the cutting-edge F-35C Lightning II fighter jet. You might be asking, “QDOBA and fighter jets? What’s the connection?” Well, it's all about fueling peak performance. Lockheed Martin recognizes that maintaining the most advanced military aircraft, and the incredibly skilled individuals who operate them, requires top-notch nutrition. They reached out to QDOBA because, frankly, everyone loves a good, customizable meal, especially when you're dealing with high-stress, demanding work. “We’re always looking for ways to support our personnel, and that includes making sure they have access to healthy, satisfying food,” said a Lockheed Martin spokesperson, who preferred to remain anonymous but admitted to being a huge fan of QDOBA’s queso. “These guys and gals are pushing the limits of aerospace engineering and piloting, and they need fuel that can keep up. Forget mystery meat and lukewarm coffee – we’re talking about fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and the ability to build exactly what you want.” Feeding the Future of Naval Aviation The F-35C Lightning II is a marvel of modern engineering, a fifth-generation fighter jet designed for carrier operations. It's a complex machine, requiring a dedicated team of experts to keep it flying. Think pilots pushing the boundaries of aerial combat, engineers fine-tuning sophisticated systems, and maintenance crews ensuring everything runs smoothly. That’s a lot of work, and it requires serious energy. QDOBA’s solution? Delivering customized meal options directly to the base, allowing personnel to choose from a wide array of ingredients and create a meal that perfectly fits their needs and tastes. “We’re talking grilled adobo steak, honey chipotle chicken, even slow-cooked pulled pork,” explained Jill Spangler, VP of Marketing for QDOBA. “And then you get to pile on the toppings – fresh pico de gallo, creamy guacamole, shredded cheese, black beans, rice… the possibilities are endless. It’s about giving them control over their meal, just like they have control over this incredible machine.” Beyond the Burrito: A Commitment to Quality QDOBA isn’t just throwing together pre-made meals. They're committed to using fresh, high-quality ingredients. Their commitment to flavor aligns with the precision and performance demanded by the F-35C program. The company sources responsibly, ensuring that every ingredient meets their strict standards. “These guys deserve the best, and we’re proud to deliver,” said Spangler. “We’ve adapted our menu to meet the unique needs of the base, offering options that are both delicious and nutritious. We're also working with them on sustainable packaging solutions, because we care about the environment too." The F-35C: A Brief Overview For those unfamiliar, the F-35C Lightning II isn't your grandfather’s fighter jet. It's a stealthy, multi-role aircraft designed to dominate the skies. Here’s a quick rundown: Carrier-Based: Specifically designed for operation from aircraft carriers, the F-35C boasts larger wings and reinforced landing gear to withstand the rigors of naval aviation. Stealth Technology: Its advanced stealth features make it difficult to detect by radar, giving it a crucial advantage in combat. Advanced Sensors: Packed with cutting-edge sensors and communication systems, the F-35C provides pilots with unparalleled situational awareness. Multi-Role Capabilities: Capable of performing a wide range of missions, including air-to-air combat, air-to-ground attack, and reconnaissance. Next-Generation Technology: It’s a platform for future upgrades and innovations, ensuring it remains at the forefront of aerial warfare. Maintaining this level of sophistication requires a highly skilled and dedicated workforce, and QDOBA recognizes the importance of keeping them fueled and focused. A Delicious Partnership for National Security This partnership between QDOBA and Lockheed Martin is more than just a convenient food option; it’s an investment in the people who protect our nation. By providing them with delicious, customizable meals, QDOBA is helping to ensure they have the energy and focus they need to perform their vital roles. “We’re incredibly proud to be supporting the men and women who serve our country,” said Spangler. “It’s a privilege to be a part of their daily lives, even in a small way.” Lockheed Martin agrees. “Happy, well-fed personnel are more productive personnel,” the spokesperson quipped. “And frankly, a little queso goes a long way.” Looking Ahead QDOBA plans to expand its partnership with Lockheed Martin in the future, potentially offering catering services for special events and training exercises. They’re also exploring opportunities to provide healthy snack options and beverages. So, the next time you see an F-35C Lightning II soaring through the skies, remember that the pilots and crew behind it are fueled by fresh, customizable Mexican eats from QDOBA. It’s a delicious partnership that’s helping to keep our skies safe and secure. About QDOBA FRANCHISOR LLC: QDOBA FRANCHISOR LLC is a leading fast-casual restaurant chain that delivers a bold and flavorful experience through its customizable Mexican-inspired offerings. With over 700 locations nationwide, QDOBA is committed to providing fresh, high-quality ingredients and exceptional customer service. Headquartered in San Diego, CA, QDOBA is dedicated to making every meal a delicious adventure. About Lockheed Martin: Lockheed Martin is a global security and aerospace company that employs approximately 114,000 people worldwide and is primarily engaged in the development, manufacture, and service of advanced technology systems, products, and services. The company’s products include aircraft, missiles, fire control systems, and a wide range of technology solutions.