Smashburger, the leading fast-casual restaurant chain renowned for its smashed-to-order burgers, announced the launch of its first Virtual Drive-Thru located at the newest corporate-owned restaurant in Houston, Texas.
An extension of the traditional drive-thru experience, the Virtual Drive-Thru allows customers to seamlessly place an order online or through the Smashburger app, then pull through the designated parking lane where their food will be delivered to the driver by a Smashburger team member.
First introduced at the beginning of 2022, the Virtual Drive-Thru prototype, coupled with Smashburger’s refreshed kitchen design, reinforces the brand’s commitment to innovation and staying in lockstep with the increased consumer demand for convenience and accessibility.
Smashburger’s Virtual Drive-Thru implements Curbit’s digital ordering system that gives guests an exact wait time for their order and the ability to track the order accurately from start to finish.
With the wait time reduction, the technology increases customer satisfaction with a 30% lift in customer repeat rate
The introduction of the Virtual Drive-Thru not only allows a streamlined operation but also offers a more contactless experience.
Additionally, the Virtual Drive-Thru is more environmentally friendly than the standard drive-thru, as it reduces traffic congestion and carbon emissions by minimizing the amount of time customers spend idling in the car.
Founded in 2007 in Denver, Colorado, Smashburger is a better-burger brand known for its innovative approach to crafting delicious and high-quality burgers.
From the way the burgers are cooked, to the unique flavors they offer, Smashburger is constantly pushing the boundaries of what a burger can be.
With over 340 locations, across 38 states and nine countries, Smashburger is the quickest fast-casual concept to hit the 200-restaurant milestone and has sustained consistent growth due to its ongoing menu innovation which helps drive store profitability and build guest loyalty.
In February, Smashburger introduced its new limited-time offer, the S’mac & Cheeseburger, and even added the fan favorite Scorchin’ Hot Crispy Chicken Sandwich as a permanent menu item in January.
Smashburger has also made significant efforts to accommodate dietary restrictions with options like gluten-free buns and is currently testing the Plant-Based Classic Smash Burger made with a jackfruit patty from Jack & Annie’s in select markets for a limited time.
This past year, Smashburger signed 3 new development agreements to add 21 new restaurants to its growth pipeline.
Additionally, the brand has redefined its portfolio with the launch of a new restaurant design with some locations offering a full-service bar.