Edible Arrangements breaks 500,000 Facebook fan mark

WALLINGFORD, Conn. — Edible Arrangements picked up its 500,000th Facebook fan Thursday, showcasing remarkable growth since the fan page’s 2008 launch. In celebration of the achievement, the fresh fruit arrangements franchise will be offering a series of online and in-store promotions on September 17. Kaitlin Reiss, vice president of e-commerce for Edible Arrangements, credited the brand’s customers and fans for the achievement in a press release. "Much of this growth happened naturally," Reiss said. "As our brand awareness has increased, with more than 1,000 locations and expanded advertising and marketing programs, we've seen the impact and importance of the role that social media can play. We've really made a commitment to grow our following on Facebook, and to engage with our fans in ways that are relevant and fun." Last month, this publication ranked Edible Arrangements as the #27 franchise in social media. The brand has also received recognition as a Top 100 Internet retailer by Internet Retailer magazine. "While it is an incredible achievement for us to hit a half million fans, we feel like it's more important to look at the interaction we have with each of them," said Reiss. "We have amazing customers who frequent our stores, order online, and interact with us on social media. And for all of the gifts and healthy indulgences they get from Edible Arrangements, we have a sweet surprise to thank them as we celebrate reaching this Facebook milestone."