Johnny Rockets to Drop Art Used in Rival Ruby’s Chain

Johnny Rockets is known for its well-lit exterior. But there was a slight problem with the decor on the inside of the ‘50s style eateries: the artwork was identical to archrival Ruby’s Diners, a Newport Beach-based chain.

That is about to change. Johnny Rockets Group Inc., based in Irvine, will replace the Coca-Cola artwork with a new series of oil paintings that feature the Johnny Rockets logo.

“If you look at the artwork on the walls, it’s very hard to distinguish Johnny Rockets from Ruby’s,” said Bill Groux, vice president of marketing for Johnny Rockets. “It’s great stuff, but it promotes Coca-Cola items, not our core items, which are hamburgers, shakes and fries.”

The new paintings are the work of David Willardson, a Los Angeles artist who designed the posters for the films “American Graffiti” and “Raiders of the Lost Ark.”

Johnny Rockets also is about to embark on its first major movie promotion this summer, a tie-in to the Warner Bros. animated film “Iron Giant,” which will be released Aug. 6.

“It’s a story that fits our concept,” Groux said. “It’s the story of a single mom who works in a ‘50s malt shop.”

The movie promotion begins July 23. A coloring book or cassette movie soundtrack will come with children’s meals.

There are 122 Johnny Rockets locations throughout the country, including four in Orange County. The company, which logged $125 million in sales last year, plans to open at least 35 new restaurants within the next 11 months.