RANKY Rank Grp. Plc Adr (MM)

Rock Legend Michael Anthony's Signature BBQ Sauce to be Featured at Hard Rock Cafes ORLANDO, Fla., Nov. 17 /PRNewswire/ -- For more than two decades, Van Halen bass guitarist, Michael Anthony, has shown his ability to stimulate the senses with his ear-shattering bass lines and eye-catching stage antics. Now, the rock legend is tantalizing his fan's taste buds with the introduction of his tongue-sizzling signature line of Mad Anthony's barbecue sauces, which will rock their way into Hard Rock Cafes this fall. Beginning November 30, all U.S. and select European Hard Rock Cafes will feature Mad Anthony's Original Style and Extra Hot BBQ sauces, proving that rock 'n' roll flavor really is the "best of both worlds." During this time, Hard Rock will offer a new menu item, "Mad Anthony's Grilled Skirt Steak," featuring Michael Anthony's new BBQ sauce, created by Hard Rock chefs with Michael's personal touch. The 11-ounce skirt steak is brushed with Mad Anthony's Original Style BBQ sauce, grilled and made-to- order, and complemented with sweet potato french fries and fresh vegetables. The delicious dish will become a permanent addition to Hard Rock's world- famous menu, available in all corporate-owned cafes on November 30 (with a launch in Canada on December 21). Collectable bottles of Mad Anthony's BBQ Sauces, Original Style and Extra Hot, will also be available at all Rock Shops in the U.S. and on http://www.hardrock.com/ on November 16. To further celebrate the launch of Mad Anthony's BBQ Sauces at Hard Rock Cafe, Michael Anthony will be appearing at the local cafes in New York, Philadelphia, Boston, Chicago, San Francisco and Los Angeles, where he will meet with fans and sign bottles of his new BBQ sauces. Michael will also dedicate a piece of memorabilia during each appearance, which will be added to Hard Rock's world-renowned collection. A limited-edition "Mad Anthony" pin will also be available at the Rock Shops in these six markets. For further information on Michael Anthony's appearances, please visit http://www.hardrock.com/. "Like music, cooking and more specifically, barbecuing is one of my greatest passions and my sauce is a celebration of these simple pleasures in life," said Michael Anthony. "I am thrilled to have my original BBQ sauces featured on Hard Rock's menu, as both embody the true meaning of rock 'n' roll flavor." "Hard Rock prides itself on remaining loyal to the brand's rock 'n' roll roots, which is evident in every aspect of the brand, including our world- famous menu," said Sean Dee, vice president and chief marketing officer, Hard Rock International. "Michael Anthony is one of the greatest bassists of our time and his line of sauces is the perfect blend of rock, quality and taste that is the cornerstone of any item on Hard Rock's authentic menu." About Hard Rock International With 120 high-energy Hard Rock Cafes and 13 Hard Rock Hotels and Casinos in more than 40 countries, Hard Rock International is one of the world's most globally-recognized brands. Beginning with an Eric Clapton guitar, Hard Rock owns the world's greatest collection of music memorabilia, which is displayed at its locations around the globe. Hard Rock is also known for its collectible fashion and music-related merchandise, Hard Rock Live performance venues and an award-winning website. Hard Rock International, Inc. is owned by The Rank Group Plc (NASDAQ:RANKY). For more information on Hard Rock, visit http://www.hardrock.com/. DATASOURCE: Hard Rock International CONTACT: Brian Siemienas of Hard Rock International, +1-407-445-7625; or Deborah Sierchio, or Meredith Miesieski, both of Coyne PR for Hard Rock International, +1-973-316-1665; or Ginger Greager of GG Public Relations, +1-212-245-2727 Web site: http://www.hardrock.com/

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