Buffalo Wild Wings opened its first “GO” concept restaurant – specifically designed for takeout and delivery orders – in Atlanta earlier this month.
“I am thrilled to introduce the new ‘GO’ model in our own backyard of Atlanta, Georgia,” said John Bowie, Chief Operating Officer, Buffalo Wild Wings in a press release. “We’ve seen the success of this model over the past six weeks, with our takeout and delivery business growing over 140%. Buffalo Wild Wings ‘GO’ is perfect for friends and family who want to enjoy our authentic, New York-style buffalo wings at home.”
Is takeout the new dine-in?
Takeout and delivery sales have skyrocketed during the COVID-19 crisis, making up at least 49% of casual dining sales since March 22, according to market research firm Datassential. Off-premise wing specialist and Buffalo Wild Wings competitor, Wingstop, reported a 33% gain in sales at the height of the pandemic during April.
Experts predict that off-premises dining will continue to a prominent feature of foodservice sales in the future.
Offering a contactless experience
Buffalo Wild Wings says it plans to integrate the key insights and best practices learned during the pandemic into GO. During the pandemic, the brand converted its 1,250 sports bar locations into to-go models.
GO’s menu consists of traditional and boneless wings, hand-breaded tenders, sides and all 23 of Buffalo Wild Wings sauces and daily rubs. The location will also offer the signature weekly deals seen at traditional Buffalo Wild Wings restaurants, including two-for-one boneless wings on Thursdays and a buy one/get one free deal for bone-in wing on Tuesday.
Unlike traditional Buffalo Wild Wings locations, GO will not sell beer or other alcoholic beverages.
GO features a walk-up counter, digital menu boards, limited seating and TVs for customers to watch while they wait for their food. GO also offers heated takeout lockers for guests interested in a contactless experience.
The 1,800-square-foot facility is located near the Buffalo Wild Wings Atlanta Support Center. Additional locations are in the works.
View our continuing coverage of the coronavirus/COVID-19 pandemic.
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