Smashburger Unveils Virtual Drive-Thru Design with Opening of New Location in Houston

Leading Fast Casual Franchise Introduces New Technology to Revolutionize the Drive-Thru Experience for Guests and Franchisees

DENVER, March 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Smashburger, the leading fast-casual restaurant chain renowned for its smashed-to-order-burgers, today announced the launch of its first Virtual Drive-Thru located at the newest corporate-owned restaurant in Houston, Texas. An extension of the traditional drive-thru experience, the Virtual Drive-Thru allows customers to seamlessly place an order online or through the Smashburger app, then pull through the designated parking lane where their food will be delivered to the driver by a Smashburger team member. First introduced at the beginning of 2022, the Virtual Drive-Thru prototype, coupled with Smashburger's refreshed kitchen design, reinforces the brand's commitment to innovation and staying in lockstep with the increased consumer demand for convenience and accessibility.

"Smashburger has always been committed to providing our customers with the best possible experience. this is why we are thrilled to be introducing our new prototype offering a more convenient way for our customers to order their favorite burgers. Smashburger wants to meet our customers where they want to be met, and the increased use of mobile ordering has led us to this new Virtual Drive Thru design," said Carl Bachman, President of Smashburger. "We understand consumers' need for convenience, and speed of service as a result of ever-evolving dining habits stemming from the pandemic. This design provides both.  By adding this element, our franchisees have more flexibility in their site selection process, and assurance that guest demand is consistently being met. We are excited to partner with experienced operators to open additional Smashburger Virtual Drive-Thrus across the country."

Smashburger's Virtual Drive-Thru implements Curbit's digital ordering system that gives guests an exact wait time for their order and ability to track the order accurately from start to finish. With the wait time reduction, the technology increases customer satisfaction with a 30% lift in customer repeat rate. The introduction of the Virtual Drive-Thru not only allows a streamlined operation, but also offers a more contactless experience. Additionally, the Virtual Drive-Thru is more environmentally friendly than the standard drive-thru, as it reduces traffic congestion and carbon emissions by minimizing the amount of time customers spend idling in the car. 

"With the new Virtual Drive-Thru prototype providing real-time updates on order status and estimated wait times, customers can make informed decisions about their time and schedule," says Veronica Luna, Director of Digital Business Channels at Smashburger. "Although this new technology will work to streamline the customer experience, it will also provide significant benefits to our franchisees including increased speed of service, improved order accuracy, and reduced labor costs."

Founded in 2007 in Denver, Colorado, Smashburger is a better-burger brand known for its innovative approach to crafting delicious and high-quality burgers. From the way the burgers are cooked, to the unique flavors they offer, Smashburger is constantly pushing the boundaries of what a burger can be. With over 340 locations, across 38 states and nine countries, Smashburger is the quickest fast casual concept to hit the 200-restaurant milestone and has sustained consistent growth due to its ongoing menu innovation which helps drive store profitability and build guest loyalty. In February, Smashburger introduced its new limited time offer, the S'mac & Cheeseburger, and even added the fan favorite Scorchin' Hot Crispy Chicken Sandwich as a permanent menu item in January. Smashburger has also made significant efforts to accommodate dietary restrictions with options like gluten-free buns and is currently testing the Plant-Based Classic Smash Burger made with a jackfruit patty from Jack & Annie's in select markets for a limited time. This past year, Smashburger signed 3 new development agreements to add 21 new restaurants to its growth pipeline. Additionally, the brand has redefined its portfolio with the launch of a new restaurant design with some locations offering a full-service bar.

Smashburger is looking to expand within Southern California, North and South Carolina, as well as Florida. Smashburger provides franchise operators site selection criteria, construction, decor, as well as opening support. Once open, the Smashburger team provides regular feedback on ways to increase sales, improve operations and monitor guest feedback. Prospective franchisees can also visit https://smashburger.com/franchising/ for the latest information regarding available opportunities. 

About Smashburger^®
Smashburger^® is a leading fast-casual better burger restaurant known for its Certified Angus Beef^® burgers that are smashed on the grill to sear in the juices and seal in the flavor. In addition to burgers, Smashburger^® offers grilled or crispy chicken sandwiches, turkey and black bean burgers, fresh salads, signature side items such as Brussels sprouts and SmashFries^®, and hand-spun shakes. Founded in 2007 in Denver, Colorado, Smashburger is a recognized Stevie American Business Award winner and was ranked as one of Fast Casual's top 10 brands in its 2022 Top 100 Movers & Shakers Award. The brand has 245 corporate and franchise restaurants operating in 34 states and seven countries. To learn more, visit www.smashburger.com

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SOURCE Smashburger