EXPRESS TO GO
Hog’s Australia’s Steakhouse has opened its first drive-through Hog’s Express store.
Popular Hogs’ Australia unveils latest in its business models
What’s crucial to the experience however, is building a rapport with customers so they are excited to visit the store.
The youngest member of the Hog’s family has taken the speedy food service concept one step further.
The newest addition to the Hog’s portfolio ticks all the boxes as customers can choose from dine-in, takeaway, drive through and home delivery. The Brisbane outlet has already proved more popular than expected, particularly with the local police station.
National operations manager Paul Piert explains “People are time poor, the demographic is widespread from school children to mums and kids coming in for a coffee, workies, local police force, it’s ver y diverse.”
Some customers are already embracing the home delivery option up to four times a week, and Piert says this is new business - these are customers who would not usually visit the store.
Taxis are accessing the drive-through option, while dine-in customers can make use of a f ully interactive customer ordering system via iPad - and charge their devices while in-store.
“What’s crucial to the experience however, is building a rapport with customers so they are excited to visit the store. We work a lot on the service side, and you should get a high level of service even at a quick service restaurant,” says Piert.
The Express menu offers a selection of burgers, ribs and wings, Hog's favourites curly fries and onion rings, as well as salads and a special menu for kids.
“It’s a versatile offer, and the menu must have something for everyone. Burgers are always going to sell well, and are very much on trend.”
The Hog’s Express concept was introduced in 2017 as a versatile business model that can be located in a shopping centre or petrol station, an airport or a cinema.
It costs about $450,000 to invest in a Hog’s Express restaurant, depending on size and location. The footprint can be adjusted to suit any location which makes it a desirable and flexible proposition for potential franchisees.
CEO Ross Worth says “This is such a fresh and exciting addition to the Hog’s brand as we move into our 30th year and has established that our customers love having the option to grab Hog’s on the go.
“Being part of a 30-year-old business with a tremendous track record also gives potential franchisees a great sense of confidence both in us and in their own ability to succeed," adds Worth.
“We’re actively looking to open more drive-through restaurants around Australia and have fielded many enquiries from potential franchisees, so watch this space.”