DUBUQUE, Iowa -- Kwik Stop has opened a third Fazoli’s Italian fast-casual restaurant unit this week in a convenience store in Dubuque, Iowa. It is owned and operated by Dubuque-based P & K Enterprises Inc., which operates two other Fazoli’s in Iowa.
Fazoli’s also has convenience-store restaurants in Colorado, Indiana, West Virginia and Tennessee, with one under construction in central Indiana.
The restaurant chain also recently broke ground on an all-new prototype. Franchisee C&P Italian Restaurant Co. broke ground in Macon, Ga. on a restaurant that will be the first to use the standalone prototype design. The company said it expects it to open in the spring.
The contemporary design incorporates a distinctive 35-foot tower, improved lighting to make the building more visible at night, prominent placement of the recognizable Fazoli’s tomato logo and a versatile color scheme that gives the brand a fresh, modern image. It was created to appeal to both a new generation of diners and long-time customers, as well as potential franchisees.
“Our new prototype illustrates why Fazoli’s is such a dynamic brand that’s experiencing record sales growth,” said Carl Howard, president and CEO of the fast-casual chain, who noted that franchisee same-store sales have been up 65 of the last 68 months. “We’re constantly improving every facet of our concept to ensure an excellent customer experience while offering a unique investment opportunity to operators.”
At 2,800 square feet with seating for approximately 100, the design can be scaled in size, said John Bernardo, Fazoli’s director of construction and facilities management. New awnings display the logo, illuminated at night with LED lights.
“With our new prototype, we’re staying ahead of design trends,” Bernardo said.
He said that elements will be used in nontraditional, in-line and end-cap units.
Completely repositioned to compete with fast-casual and casual dining restaurants, Fazoli’s has opened five franchised units this year. It expects to open as many as 12 franchised locations next year, the company said.
Lexington, Ky.-based Fazoli’s, one of America's largest Italian fast-casual chains, has approximately 220 restaurants in 26 states. It is owned by Sun Capital Partners Inc.
Members help make our journalism possible. Become a CSP member today and unlock exclusive benefits, including unlimited access to all of our content. Sign up here.