With new technology and capabilities being released on a daily basis, the consumer’s demand for the next new and exciting product or service is higher than ever. There is no exception when it comes to restaurants either. The top contenders in the restaurant industry have to stay on their toes and be ready to implement changes into their menus, services, etc. at a moment’s notice. Here are some innovative approaches and services from industry leaders that are changing the restaurant game:
Chipotle
If you have ever stopped in at a Chipotle restaurant, especially during peak times, you probably ran into a line that flooded out the front door and practically around the building. However, if you think about it you probably didn’t wait all that long. That’s because the company focuses a great deal of its energy and funds on their kitchen efficiency design and hiring staff members that are friendly, polite, and efficient to keep customers coming back for more. Unfortunately, the primary focus of many restaurants is no longer customer satisfaction, which is why Chipotle is making groundbreaking sales each year. According to CBS, Chipotle actually upped their prices significantly, but loyal customers still line up to order their favorite Mexican cuisine thanks to the healthy ingredients Chipotle incorporates into all of their meals along with super quick and friendly service.
Starbucks
Sometimes companies simply need to step outside of their comfort zone in order to cater to their customer’s wants and needs. Starbucks has long been hailed as a favorite of coffee lovers everywhere, but come nighttime, their caffeine-packed beverages aren’t necessarily a first pick among customers. Many students and business people opt to meet at their local Starbucks later in the day to discuss a project or take advantage of their free wi-fi, but something about the evening menu at Starbucks just wasn’t cutting it. Businessweek reports that Starbucks has found the missing link by putting plans into motion to add alcoholic beverages, such as beer and wine, to their evening menu in select locations over the next few years. The company also plans to customize their menu with beer and wine that is popular in each particular area.
Panera
Panera has been so successful with their restaurant chain because they have filled the need for healthy food on the go and continue to dedicate themselves to providing nutritious and tasty meals for health-conscious people who lead busy lives. Deemed one of the “healthiest” fast food restaurants due to their huge selection of healthy options, such as salads and soup, Panera has chosen to take it one step further and jump on board with the clean eating movement. Fortune Magazine claims that Panera “will remove artificial colors, sweeteners, flavors, and preservative” by 2016. Currently, all but one of Panera’s food items are are free of trans fat.
