Technology

Cafe Rio owes growth to tech investments

Provided

August 1, 2023

Thanks to technology investments, Cafe Rio Mexican Grill is continuing to expand its U.S. footprint, reporting five-year growth of over 50%, according to CEO Steve Vaughan, who said during the past two years the brand has introduced digital cafes, which put technology at the center of the consumer experience while reducing construction costs.

Featuring a traditional drive-thru, digital kiosk ordering in-store and mobile app ordering available for pick-up in-store or curbside, the concept allows consumers to select their preferred ordering channel and gives them an opportunity to bypass the line.

"We're proud of our continued growth, and excited to be adding new technology and more locations in communities throughout the U.S." he said in a company press release. "The newer digital format restaurants are seeing average unit volumes exceed traditional format volumes by almost 20%. By the end of 2023, Cafe Rio will have a total of thirteen locations that feature the digital ordering kiosks. Our goal is to offer consumers more flexibility and opportunities to enjoy our fresh, award-winning, and flavor-packed recipes, which in turn, creates opportunities for our team members to advance their careers with Cafe Rio."

The chain first opened in Utah in 1997 and has continued to grow its portfolio across 11 states, including Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Maryland, Montana, Nevada, Utah, Virginia, Washington and Wyoming. By year's end, it will add six additional locations, bringing the restaurant chain's total to 163 locations.