Au Bon Pain launches remodeling program

New York City -- Fast-casual restaurant operator Au Bon Pain is launching a major remodeling program that will transform all of its 318 cafes. The Boston-based chain also is testing iPads as an order-taking device in select stores.



Under this initiative, the company has already remodeled a majority of its cafes in the greater New York City area, one of the company's largest markets.



The café interiors will be redesigned to speed service, particularly at the sandwich bar, where a more efficient ordering process utilizing iPads is being tested at several locations. The seating areas will be refurbished, and team members are now distinguished by new black uniforms with a sunburst orange apron.



"Our recently remodeled New York City cafes have been generating double-digit sales increases, reflecting the enthusiastic response of our guests,” said Sue Morelli, CEO.



The redesign is being undertaken as the chain gears up for expansion. It is planning to add more than 20 new units systemwide its current fiscal year, including in new markets such as Sacramento, Calif., and Nashville, Tenn.