The recently developed Joseph S. and Theresa R. Bruno Cancer Center, located at St. Vincent’s Health System in Birmingham, Alabama, now features the first ever off-site extension of the popular fast-casual Newk’s Eatery Grab-N-Go concept. The 375-square-foot Newk’s Grab-N-Go location includes a selection of the brand’s most popular entrees and sides, a small-scale version of the brand’s signature Roundtable and a small dining area.

“There is demand for Newk’s Eatery stores in non-traditional locations,” says Alan Wright, vice president of franchise operations and marketing. “We are looking at a variety of ways to extend the brand beyond four walls. The expansion not only builds awareness of our rapidly expanding brand, but it adds revenue streams that enhance our franchisees’ success.”

The partners in Birmingham’s six Newk’s Eatery restaurants, including two locations scheduled to open this fall, have long supported cancer research and celebrated cancer survivors. Since Todd and Sonya Jackson developed the first Newk’s location in downtown Birmingham in 2007, the family-owned business has been a major sponsor of Susan G. Komen’s Race for the Cure. In October, all Newk’s Birmingham restaurants will replace their signature black cups with pink cups in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Until then, the restaurants will participate in a company-wide Newk’s Cares campaign with the Ovarian Cancer Research Fund to educate women about the early warning signs of ovarian cancer. Through the end of September, all 70 Newk’s Eatery locations will use teal cups in recognition of Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month and distribute educational information about the disease.

“Early detection of cancer and research for cures are issues near and dear to our hearts,” Jackson says. “Most of us have been or will be touched by cancer. In some small way, we hope that Newk’s presence at the cancer center will not only be a place for patients seeking treatment and their families to enjoy a delicious and healthy meal, but a place for peace and healing as well.”

Newk’s Grab-N-Go can be found on the second floor of the cancer center near the elevators and entrance from the parking garage. It offers a selection of salads, sandwiches, sides, soups, and homemade cakes. In keeping with Newk’s Eatery restaurants, the Grab-N-Go selections are prepared fresh daily and the location features a Newk’s Roundtable, a circular table that offers complimentary spices and toppings, allowing guests to customize their menu items.

 

Denise Lee Yohn: QSR's Marketing Guru, Growth, News, Newk's Eatery