Exciting Developments for Newk’s Eatery in Memphis
Memphis is buzzing with news of Newk’s Eatery expanding its presence in the area, and it’s hard not to get excited about what this means for food lovers in the city! With a focus on delicious, fresh meals and a great dining experience, Newk’s is stepping up its game, striking out to open new locations and bring back some beloved spots that have been missed.
A Little Background
Founded in Oxford, Mississippi, back in 2004 by Don Newcomb, Debra Bryson, and Chris Newcomb, Newk’s has steadily grown its brand, with a reputation for quality fast-casual dining. Frank Paci, who came on board as the CEO in 2021, knows all about the challenges in the restaurant business. After all, he previously held the top position at McAlister’s Deli, putting him in direct competition with Newk’s. “I started out as a competitor to Newk’s, and I knew what a tough competitor they were,” Paci shared.
During those tough pandemic days, Paci was initially concerned with making Newk’s a solid investment for franchisees. Thankfully, as things have started to look up, especially for those involved in Tennessee’s food scene, Memphis is proving to be an area ripe for growth!
A Memphis Comeback
Dr. Spencer Mooney, the Memphis franchisee who currently oversees five Newk’s locations, has big plans as he signed on to open three new spots in the city. “Memphis was originally one of the first franchise markets,” Paci explained, which shows just how long the brand has had its eye on the Memphis area.
Newk’s has had outlets at familiar locations like the Highland Strip near University of Memphis and Cordova in the past, and they’re looking to rekindle that golden flame! Mooney is actively exploring the possibility of reopening at these former hotspots where Newk’s once thrived.
Challenges on the Horizon
Like many restaurants, Newk’s in Memphis has faced some hurdles, particularly concerning staffing. Paci reported that one location had to close on Saturdays due to workforce shortages—something that hit the entire restaurant scene hard. Fortunately, Paci mentioned that they are currently discussing taking over restaurants that were previously owned by franchisees who lost their enthusiasm for the business.
In fact, since Dr. Mooney took over the Memphis operations, they’ve seen a significant surge in sales. It’s proof that when you have someone dedicated to improving the business, great things can happen!
Innovation and Efficiency
Moving forward, Newk’s is embracing what Paci calls “process efficiencies.” This means they are exploring exciting technological solutions like kiosks and mobile app ordering to make the experience smoother for customers. The goal is simple: enhance convenience while making restaurant operations more efficient. In a fun twist, they’ve also introduced a drive-thru at their new location in Magee, Mississippi, catering to the modern diner’s needs.
Newk’s is also refreshing its menu by streamlining offerings. Gone are the days of a strict soup schedule! Now, patrons can enjoy four core soups alongside a rotating seasonal option, making it easier to pick a favorite without feeling overwhelmed.
Looking Ahead
“When I look at what we do, our goal has always been to serve the best quality food and taste in the fast-casual business,” Paci emphasized, hinting at Newk’s unwavering commitment to quality.
As Newk’s Eatery gears up to enrich its footprint in Memphis, it’s clear that delicious food and a warm atmosphere are on the horizon for residents. So, whether you’re an existing fan or new to the scene, keep an eye out for these new locations and get ready to enjoy some delightful meals in the near future!
