#United States #COSI #Foodservice #Market Partner #Springfield, NJ

Così Launches Market Partner Program

In a notable move to expand its business model, Così Restaurant Holdings, LLC has announced the launch of the Così Market Partner Program. This innovative licensing initiative allows established foodservice businesses to offer Così's catering services without the need to open a traditional Così restaurant. The program, designed to integrate seamlessly with existing operations, is particularly aimed at independent caterers, cafés, delis, and other commercial kitchen operators looking to diversify their catering offerings.

Background on Così

Founded in Paris over 35 years ago, Così is known for its signature flatbread sandwiches. In its heyday, the brand operated hundreds of restaurants across the United States, predominantly on the East Coast and Midwest. Although the number of Così restaurants has fluctuated, the brand continues to thrive in various capacities, including the new Market Partner Program.

Opportunities for Local Operators

The Market Partner Program allows qualified local foodservice operators to prepare and sell dishes from the Così catering menu directly from their own commercial kitchens. Not only do they maintain their branding and identity, but they also benefit from utilizing Così’s established recipes and approved ingredients. This move aims to create new revenue streams for independent food businesses while making Così’s catering services more accessible to a wider community.

According to David Polonitza, Executive Vice President of Così, “The Market Partner Program represents an important step in the continued evolution of the Così brand. It creates new opportunities for independent operators while making Così catering available to more communities.” This approach is said to enhance the catering landscape and provide tools for foodservice businesses to succeed in a competitive market.

How It Works

Unlike traditional franchises, which require a high level of investment and operational restructuring, the Market Partner model is designed for simplicity and efficiency. Participating partners incorporate Così catering into their businesses without completely overhauling their existing operations. They receive comprehensive onboarding, operational guidance, and marketing support from Così’s internal team, ensuring that they can uphold the brand's high-quality standards.

As Matthew Porter, Director of Operations for Così, noted, “Many independent operators already have the facilities and expertise needed to support a program like this. Our role is to provide the brand standards, operational support, and resources that allow them to successfully add Così catering to their existing business.”

Current Developments

Several locations are already up and running with the Market Partner Program, and a new site is set to open in New Haven, Connecticut soon. Additionally, more partnerships are currently in development, further expanding the reach of Così catering across different regions.

Organizations that are interested in joining the Così Market Partner Program can reach out for more detailed information. The future looks promising as Così aims to bring more flavors and catering options to communities, all while supporting local business growth.

Conclusion

With the introduction of the Così Market Partner Program, the brand is not just reinforcing its presence in the foodservice industry but is also committing to empower independent operators. This shift redefines traditional catering models and opens the door for innovation within a saturated market. As Così continues to adapt and grow, so too will its influence and availability of quality catering options for a variety of events and occasions.