Does everyone remember the fast food chain Krystal? No, just me? (I'm totally lying right now, I knew nothing about it until very recently.) Well, it appears they're making a comeback, and doing it through a very savvy business plan. Thanks to The Daily Mail UK, we can discuss:
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Krystal's History
Turns out, Krystal isn't just the name of objects that might tell our future. They were also once an incredibly popular burger joint.
The first one opened all the way back in 1932 and was purchased for $5,000 during the Great Depression. (I know, imagine any building being purchased for that price these days? Maybe a toolshed goes for that price.)
The place was finally thrust into fame in 1954. It happened when a popular DJ at the time purchased 100 burgers for him and the icon Elvis Presley to hand out in front of the restaurant. It's list of famous attendees only grew from there. The likes of Jimmy Carter and Ronald Reagan both graced the space in the years following.
They finally were able to launch their first fast food franchise in 1990, and the rest has been history. (Some of it for sure bad history though.) They currently own and operate 300 locations. (Which, unfortunately, is much smaller than their direct rivals McDonald's.) (Also, unfortunate news is that they've filed for bankruptcy. Twice.) But recently they've announced they're on their comeback tour and everyone's on smoke.
Don't Call It A Comeback
So what's next? Well, it appears that they've been purchased by SFB Hospitality, and their main vision? Gas stations. Well, not just gas stations, but gas stations, and similar places where there's a whole bunch of forced foot traffic.
As stated by SPB CEO Josh Kern, "We'll keep growing with traditional restaurants, but high-traffic hubs allow us more flexibility and efficiency." It appears that Krystal has realized that, as of right now, they just need to build up their fan base again. The other spots they're looking to build at include travel centers, airports, and convenience stores. A bunch of spots people will always be at. Very business-savvy move.
Sales have bounced back, and there are no plans for any closures of properties. Something that can't be said for some of their competitors. (Jack-in-the-box. Hint. Hint.)
It would actually be super cool if Krystal did make a comeback. I will definitely be pulling for them.
