Corner Bakery Cafe increases focus on digital ordering as part of store renovations

Corner Bakery expects to complete renovations at its 100 US stores by 2027 | Photo credit: Corner Bakery Cafe

Corner Bakery Cafe is embarking on a major store refurbishment programme, which will see digital kiosks installed at all its locations by 2027, as it seeks to keep pace with a shift towards digitalisation in the US branded coffee shop market.  
 

The US bakery-café chain was acquired out of administration by multi-brand franchisee SSCP Management in June 2023. In a press release, the Texas-based group said it has invested more than $6m to ‘revitalise’ Corner Bakery’s image since taking ownership, including updating seating, décor, beverage counters and outdoor spaces. 

Following a successful pilot at two Texas outlets in the first quarter of 2024, digital order kiosks are also being rolled out to increase speed of service and make ordering more efficient for customers. Corner Bakery said the technology also reduces labour costs and creates new revenue opportunities through suggestive selling. 

SSCP will invest a further $500,000 updating its 14 Illinois outlets in the first half of 2025 and expects to complete renovations across its 100 US stores by 2027. 

“We want our communities to know that we’re here to stay, and our loyal guests deserve cafés that look and feel special. These renovations and technology enhancements reflect our commitment to elevating the Corner Bakery experience,” said Chris Dharod, CEO, Corner Bakery.  

Digital and automated ordering are quickly becoming the norm in the US branded coffee shop market, with World Coffee Portal data showing 39% of US consumers surveyed prefer to order via a self-serve machine when given the option.  

Missouri-based Panera Bread began installing digital order kiosks as part of an in-store brand refresh as far back as 2015, while Massachusetts-based Dunkin’ introduced the technology in January 2018 as part of its NextGen store model. 

Taking self-serve technology a step further, Seattle-based Starbucks partnered with e-commerce giant Amazon in November 2021 to open a cashierless outlet in New York. While the concept failed to take off, the US coffee chain has since rolled out more than 90 Starbucks Pick Up outlets across the country specifically designed for mobile order collection. Mobile orders now make up more than a third of Starbucks transactions in the US.