Fast Food Chain Makes a Comeback After Decade-Long Hiatus and Debuts in Lone Star State
Head's up, y'all! The classic burger joint, Krystal, is making a comeback in a big way. After more than a decade, they've finally opened a new restaurant in Texas inside the EZ Travel Center in Tyler. This is a significant milestone for the brand, marking their first 24/7 restaurant at a rest stop.
The grand opening took place on April 15, and this isn't just any ordinary location. Krystal's had a rich history that stretches back to the early years of the Great Depression. Founded by Rody Davenport Jr. and J. Glenn Sherrill in 1932, they purchased a Tennessee property for a mere $5,000 to start the burger joint that would eventually become a household name.
Fun fact: Krystal got a boost in popularity in 1954 when a popular DJ ordered a whopping 100 sliders for himself and Elvis Presley. The pair handed them out to fans outside the restaurant, sparking some serious buzz. They've had guests like Jimmy Carter and Ronald Reagan, too.
These days, Krystal's owned by SPB Hospitality, and they're on a serious expansion mission. They're planning to open 200 more locations across the US within the next three to four years, with many popping up in non-traditional formats like travel centers, airports, and convenience stores. According to SPB CEO Josh Kern, these high-traffic hubs offer more flexibility and efficiency for the brand.
The brand's now operating over 300 restaurants, though they're far smaller than rivals like McDonald's. But with plans to open so many new locations, they're determined to take on the competition.
Highway 31 Food Service, the franchisee responsible for the Tyler location, is optimistic about expanding the brand in Texas. They see tremendous potential in bringing Krystal to convenience-driven formats like travel centers. So, keep your eyes peeled for more Krystal locations popping up across the Lone Star State.
Despite some financial struggles in the past, including two bankruptcies, Krystal's sales have bounced back. They've avoided closures like some of their rivals. For example, Jack in the Box recently announced plans to shutter 150 to 200 locations.
Krystal's also managed to steer clear of the value meal and chicken sandwich wars, with SPB Hospitality modernizing certain locations by adding digital menu boards and improving drive-thrus.
It's refreshing to see a brand with such a rich history embracing innovation and diving headfirst into the world of non-traditional formats. The future's looking bright for Krystal, that's for damn sure.
(Enrichment Data: Krystal's expansion strategy is focused on increasing their footprint through traditional and innovative non-traditional formats like travel centers and convenience hubs. They're planning to open over 200 new locations in the US with the help of re-franchising, modernization, and efficient operations. Their approach aligns with consumer trends towards fast, flexible dining options. Texas is a key market in their expansion plans, with additional locations planned to follow the successful launch at the Tyler travel center.)
- Krystal's expansion strategy focuses on increasing their presence through both traditional and innovative non-traditional formats like travel centers and convenience stores.
- The brand is aiming to open over 200 new locations across the US, with many planned for non-traditional hubs to offer flexibility and efficiency.
- Texas is a significant market for Krystal's expansion, as they see potential for growth in convenience-driven formats like travel centers.
- With an emphasis on re-franchising, modernization, and efficient operations, Krystal's approach aligns with consumer trends toward fast and flexible dining options.
