RALEIGH, N.C. -- The Pantry Inc. unveiled its "Fresh Initiative" in the Raleigh, N.C., market this week to serve customers new coffee and introduce new fresh-food options in a fast, friendly and clean store environment.
Raleigh-area residents are the first to sample the new Bean Street Coffee and a broader assortment of pastries, warm breakfast sandwiches and fresh fruit, according to the company. In addition, the stores will offer a variety of fresh sandwiches and salads for on-the-go lunch and dinner occasions.
Store renovations in select locations are planned [image-nocss] to enhance the shopping experience. Work is under way to convert 46 Kangaroo Express locations in the Raleigh market with the goal of expanding the Fresh Initiative to 60 stores in Charlotte, N.C. by December.
"The Fresh Initiative reflects the transformation taking place at The Pantry," president and CEO Terrance M. Marks said in a press release. "The Triangle region [in and around Raleigh] is our own backyard and the ideal market to pilot this initiative. Our goal is to impress our customers with the quality and value Kangaroo Express delivers in coffee, fresh food and customer service."
In addition to updating the taste of the coffee, The Pantry is replacing the glass pot system with new dispensers to preserve the freshness of the coffee. The spacious serving stations will have upgraded cups, lids and other coffee accessories.
The Pantry is also increasing associate training to ensure guests always receive a great-tasting cup of coffee. A hospitality-certified associate in each store will provide fast, friendly service, maintain the cleanliness of the coffee bar and help customers get in and out quickly.
"Coffee is typically the first foodservice product that customers try in a store. Our new high-quality coffee is a key part of our Fresh Initiative designed to attract more people to our stores," said Marks.
(Click here to read CSP Daily News' previous coverage of The Pantry's Fresh Initiative and its rollout plan.)
Based in Cary, N.C., The Pantry Inc. is the leading independently operated convenience store chain in the southeastern United States and one of the largest independently operated convenience store chains in the country. As of June 10, 2010, the company operated 1,642 stores in 11 states under select banners, including Kangaroo Express.
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