Sonic: Corporate Brand, Community Heart
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Lori Moresi has been with Sonic for 22 years, dedicating 19 of those years to locations across Lafayette, Central Louisiana, Baton Rouge, and New Orleans. Three years ago, she and her husband made the move to Tangipahoa Parish, where they now play key roles in the Hammond Sonic locations. Her husband serves as the Director of Operations, while Lori takes charge as the Director of Marketing. The Hammond Sonics are owned by the Gabe Pray family, who have been in business for over 45 years and are deeply rooted in the parish. Lori considers herself lucky to work with them, describing how they run their Sonics with the heart of a mom-and-pop shop, despite being part of a national brand. She’s passionate about the culture at Sonic, which she says has remained unchanged over the years. One of her favorite traditions? The mints that come with every meal. The story behind the mint traces back to Sonic’s founder, Troy Smith, who believed every guest is worth a mint.
While corporate oversees Sonic’s national marketing, Lori’s focus is entirely local. She works tirelessly to connect her restaurants with the community, partnering with schools, libraries, and animal shelters to give back in meaningful ways. On March 13th, Lori’s Sonics partnered with the Tangi Library System for a Dr. Seuss Night. Library staff visited each Sonic location, reading to children as they enjoyed Wacky Pack Meals and slushes—proceeds from which directly supported the library. This year, Sonic and the library even co-created a book, but there’s you’ll have to get a library card to find out more. Lori emphasizes that these efforts aren’t about profit; they’re about giving back. “Sonic will be fine,” she says, “but the community deserves these opportunities.” Her work with the library doesn’t stop there. She also helps promote the Summer Reading Program, encouraging children to develop a love for books. Additionally, Sonic hosts School Spirit Slush fundraisers for local schools like Holy Ghost, where proceeds go directly back to support students and teachers.
Recently, Lori helped organize a Wag Cup Party, where Sonic partnered with local animal shelters to bring puppies out to the restaurants. Guests could meet, cuddle, and even adopt a furry friend—all while treating their own pets to Wag Cups (small cups of whipped cream). Many puppies found their forever homes that day, a success Lori holds close to her heart. Lori is incredibly proud of the teams at each of her Sonic locations, crediting them for their hard work and dedication. She believes more corporate brands should make an effort to truly connect with the communities they serve. Her advice to other directors and managers? Find a cause you believe in and go for it. Every day, Lori wakes up proud to serve her community—not just with food, but with meaningful outreach that makes a difference.
