Checkers Appoints New CEO

CLEARWATER, Florida (December 20, 1999) - CHECKERS DRIVE-IN RESTAURANTS, INC. announced that it has named Daniel J. Dorsch as its new Chief Executive Officer and President to replace recently departed Jay Gillespie. Mr. Dorsch will also serve as a member of the Checkers Board of Directors. Mr. Dorsch has over 25 years experience in various Restaurant management roles and has owned and operated numerous KFC, Taco Bell and Papa John's Franchise restaurants. "Our industry-wide search lead us to Dan and we are thrilled that he was available. As a leader, motivator and manager, he is a perfect match for our Company. He has the talent and experience we need to move the organization forward," stated Peter O'Hara, the Company's Vice Chairman.

In other management changes, the Company announced that Ted Abajian would be assuming the role of Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer to replace the departing Richard Peabody. Mr. Abajian will continue to serve as Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer for Santa Barbara Restaurant Group, Inc. He has over 15 years in restaurant management and significant public company experience.

Checkers Drive-In Restaurants, Inc. and its franchisees own approximately 469 Checkers operating primarily in the Southeastern United States and approximately 465 Rally's operating primarily in the Midwestern United States.

Checkers Drive-In Restaurants, 727-519-2000