Ratzenberger is known for his role as know-it-all mail carrier Cliff Clavin on "Cheers," as well as movie roles in "Toy Story" I & II and host of the TV show "Made In America."[image-nocss]
The TA series of videos involve Ratzenberger as a "man on the highway" who visits various TA and Petro locations, informs viewers of the various amenities and services offered but also meets with customers and employees for their unique perspectives of the highway and the passion for what they do.
"John is not your typical Hollywood type. He came from very humble roots and appreciates the hard work of our truck driving customer and our employees who serve them," said Tom O'Brien, managing director, president and CEO of TravelCenters of America. "He brings energy, wit and insight that we hope will help inform viewers across the country that we are an excellent choice for stopping while on the interstate and inform the general public about what truck stops and truckers are all about."
TA will post the videos on its Web site, Facebook pages and YouTube.
"We wish to try to contribute a grass-roots education effort to foster the respect and admiration we have for the American trucker to others," O'Brian said, "[and] we can spread the word via today's hottest communication venues."
Said Ratzenberger, "TA and Petro serve one of the hardest-working professionals known: the professional truck driver. Having come from a family with trucking rootsmy father drove a truckI respect what they do for all customers and welcome the chance to share that story to viewers across the country."
The parties have agreed to a first series of three 6-8 minute video vignettes. The production is being handled by Magnetic North Films of St. Louis.
In other TravelCenters of America news, O'Brien hosted more than 100 TA and Petro Stopping Center customers for a Driver Council luncheon last week at the Mid-America Truck Show.
During the luncheon, O'Brien illustrated to TA and Petro customers the changing landscape of truck stops and the trend toward fewer services. Then he illustrated many new programs and services that will increase drivers speed and efficiency, reward them with better amenities and elevate the overall customer experience of the TA and Petro brands.
"Drivers are experiencing changes in the truckstop landscape that diminish services and add fees for things they used to get for free," O'Brien said. "As operators of two premier full-service truck stop brands, we have introduced programs and services that do just the opposite. We are elevating the bar on service to the professional truck driver." said Tom O'Brien.
The company illustrated its new showers, fueling efficiency measures, a new rewards card, and quick and healthy eating choices.
TravelCenters of America LLC, Westlake, Ohio, is a leading travel center business in 41 states and Canada operating under the TravelCenters of America and Petro brands.
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