Pilot Flying J, Cinnabon Mark 100th Opening

MEBANE, N.C. – Pilot Flying J and Cinnabon Inc. celebrated their 100th opening of a Cinnabon bakery inside the Mebane Pilot Travel Center on Aug. 1. Grand-opening festivities included a ribbon-cutting ceremony and free giveaways of Cinnabon Classic Rolls and Pilot Flying J coffee to commuters throughout the morning.

The partnership between Pilot Flying J and Cinnabon began in 2011, when the companies opened their first Cinnabon bakery together in Knoxville, Tenn. Nearly 40 more bakeries opened in 2013 alone, and by the end of 2015, approximately 150 Pilot Flying J locations are expected to carry fresh-baked Cinnabon products.

"Travel centers and plazas are an exciting growth vehicle for the Cinnabon brand," stated Cinnabon President Kat Cole. "We are thrilled to spread our footprint across accessible venues for those looking for a moment of satisfaction amid their busy schedules."

Pilot Flying J was the first venue to nationally roll out Cinnabon's newest menu addition, CinnaSweeties, which are bite-sized doughnut treats tossed in Makara cinnamon and sugar.

"We want to deliver a unique and special experience to our customers," said Whitney Haslam Johnson, director of brand and customer experience at Pilot Flying J. "Partnering with Cinnabon was a perfect fit. We share the same goals and values -- we are fast and efficient, we always deliver high quality and we both strive to make our guest say, 'Wow!'"

At its Cinnabon bakeries, Pilot Flying J offers Cinnabon Classic Cinnamon Rolls, the Caramel Pecanbon roll and more, including grab-and-go options such as CinnaSweeties and the Classic Roll CinnaPack in six- and nine-count boxes.