Operations

Foodworks launches contact-free dining solutions for businesses

September 9, 2020

As businesses across the nation gradually welcome workers back to the office, a Chicago-based restaurant incubator, Foodworks, has launched a contact-free dining solution — Market Cafe Powered by Foodworks — according to a press release.

Launched in New York City this month, the streamlined concept and technology allow corporations and businesses to offer dining options to employees and guests in their buildings without the operational costs of a full-service cafe. A hybrid grab-and-go market and cafe serves both breakfast and lunch, is tailored to the needs of sizable office buildings and features food from local restaurants in rotation.

Market Cafe is completely contactless: guests scan and pay for all their items and leave. They also have the choice of using the MarketConnect app to order and pick up from a designated shelf onsite, avoiding interactions and maintaining necessary social distancing.

"Our goal has always been to support local communities and our beloved restaurant partners. By creating this, we can provide a first of its kind dining solution for large corporate offices." John Cocker, Foodworks president, said in the press release.

Featured restaurants at the first Market Cafe in NYC will include Katz's Deli, Hummus & Pita Co, Parm, Lukes, Yupling and more. The team has also partnered with local New York City providers to create pre-made sandwiches on site, as well as locally made snacks, cookies and chips. Individually packaged grab-n-go items and basic household needs complement the menus on the app.

The company plans to expand the Market Cafe model in other locations such as Chicago and Houston.