Fast-casual chain Moe’s Southwest Grill updated its design at more than 50 stores in the Greater Atlanta market. The new design features changes to all areas of the restaurant, including the addition of a dedicated off-premises dining service line to support Moe’s growing digital business and an increase in catering. The design also features a new logo, color palette, interior and exterior signage and menu boards to accompany refreshed made-to-order menu items. A new POS system was selected to make checkout faster and more secure.
"It's important that we continue to invest in our brand to remain relevant and increase guest accessibility," says Alex Williams, chief brand officer for Moe's Southwest Grill.
In addition to an improved aesthetic, Moe's evolved design is yielding good results for franchisees. Refreshed locations in Nashville and Rochester show positive sales growth and traffic, per a release from the chain. A new service training program, called W2M (Welcome to Moe's!), will also help franchise owners maintain a welcoming environment for guests and team members. Additionally, Moe's launched “Kids Eat Free” nationally in April to drive family dining on Sundays. As a result, the fast casual chain says it’s seeing improved comp sales growth and larger check sizes.
Moe's Southwest Grill is also investing in consumer-focused innovation to remain competitive in the fast-casual space. The brand updated its app to focus on the digital ordering experience and features a loyalty program with offers tailored for its guests. Moe's is also piloting a new beverage offering and has plans to roll out LTO menu items throughout the remainder of the year. Moe’s is also focusing on adding drive-thru locations in key states like Florida and Ohio, among others. The chain hopes to open more than 20 locations in 2021.
Moe's Southwest Grill currently has more than 700 restaurants in 40 states and is part of the Focus Brands family of brands, which includes Auntie Anne's, Carvel, Cinnabon, Jamba, McAlister's Deli and Schlotzsky's.