Restaurants

Kiosks help Cafe Rio boost store count

Image provided by Cafe Rio Mexican Grill.

June 30, 2023

Self order kiosks are playing an important role in Cafe Rio Mexican Grill's U.S. expansion, according to a press release.

The fast casual chain has reported five-year growth of over 50%, having introduce its Digital Cafés during the past two years.

Specializing in Mexican cuisine, 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 the end of 2023, it will add six additional locations, bringing the restaurant chain's total to 163 locations.

One reason for the growth rate has been Cafe Rio's investment in technology, according to CEO Steve Vaughan. Featuring a traditional drive-thru, digital kiosk ordering in-store and mobile app ordering available for pick-up in-store or curbside, the Digital Café 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.," Vaughan said in the 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 13 locations that feature 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 Café Rio."