Kansas City, Kan. residents might be experiencing some deja vu. On Monday, Jack in the Box opened a new store just north of Interstate 70 - its first in the market in 30 years.
The San Diego-based chain had a seven-unit presence in the Kansas City area in the 1970s, but they all closed in 1980, according to KansasCity.com.
Currently, the company operates in 18 states. And, although it recently closed 40 company-owned locations, it is continuing to add units in existing and new markets, according to Brian Luscomb, corporate communications vice president at Jack in the Box. The Kansas City location fits this objective.
"Part of our growth strategy is to expand into new contiguous markets. For example, earlier this year, we expanded into Oklahoma City and Tulsa, which are proximate to several Jack in the Box markets in northern Texas and southern Oklahoma," Luscomb said. "Jack in the Box has a strong presence in St. Louis, and consequently we have a high level of brand awareness in the Kansas City area."
Additional locations are planned for the area. Just last year, Jack in the Box announced its expansion plan with the hopes of becoming a national brand. Part of the strategy is to plant seeds in new markets and cultivate a broader franchise system.
The new Kansas City unit features Jack in the Box's updated design, including a two-sided fireplace, pendant lights and a mixture of booths and high-top tables. Additionally, it includes a self-serve kiosk for ordering. Jack in the Box now has about 230 self-serve kiosks installed in stores throughout the country.
In addition to its unusual breakfast offerings, Jack in the Box is also known for serving its full menu line-up all day long, including burgers and shakes.
