Newk’s Eatery, a fast-casual restaurant chain with over 125 locations, is introducing menu items, self-order kiosks and plans for expansion, according to a press release. CEO Frank Paci emphasizes the company’s commitment to high-quality ingredients as a key differentiator. Menu additions include a pesto pasta chicken salad, jalapeno ranch salad and spicy chicken bacon wrap, with a turkey avocado sandwich planned for the future.
The introduction of self-order kiosks reflects a growing trend in the fast-casual dining sector. While currently concentrated in the South, Newk’s aims to expand its footprint. «We’re looking at the Carolinas, Oklahoma… I feel like we can easily double the size of this business in the next 6 or 7 years,» Paci told the news outlet. The company has also seen significant growth in off-premise dining, including catering and delivery, which now accounts for 55% of its business.