Fast food monarch seeks new crown

NEW YORK >> Burger King is look i ng for a new crow n: Hot Dog King.

The Miami-based chain says it plans to put hot dog son its menu nationally for the first time starting Feb .23. It may seem like a jar ring addition for those who know the chain for its Whoppers. But Burger King says its ability to flame-grill meat makes hot dogs a natural fit on its menu.

“This is probably the most obvious product launch ever ,” said Alex Ma ce do, president of Burger King North America.

With the launch, Burger King says it will offer hot dog sat all 7,100 of its U.S. restaurants—more U.S. locations than any other chain. Smaller chains that sell hot dogs include Dairy Queen and Sonic Drive-In.

The move comes as Burger King works to push up sales amid intensifying competition, with McDon- al d’s offering breakfast items all day to spark a turnaround, while Wendy’s offers a “4 for $4” deal to get customers in the door. In 2014, Burger King’ s sales rose 2.1 percent at established locations in the U.S. and Canada. Parent company Restaurant Brands International Inc. reports results for 2015 next week.

Maced os aid hot dogs would build on the chain’s momentum given their growing popularity, including at trendy eateries.