Great Steak Is a Great Choice for Trend-Shaping Gen Z That Prefers Malls to Online Shopping

Great Steak is a standout choice for food courts where shoppers seek not just a meal, but an experience

The American mall is popular with Gen Z, an influential consumer group about to outnumber millennials in the U.S. As Gen Z begins to influence consumer shopping behaviors, Great Steak™ cheesesteak franchise is a long-standing brand that fills a need in mall food courts where predictable burgers and pizza fall flat.

About 95 percent of Gen Zers visited a physical shopping center in a three-month period in 2018, as opposed to just 75 percent of millennials and 58 percent of Gen X, according to an International Council of Shopping Centers study. They also would rather go to the mall — three-quarters of them say going to a brick-and-mortar store was a better experience than online, according to the ICSC study.

The Great Steak cheesesteak franchise concept has been steadily growing for more than 30 years. In a market where predictable options fill mall food courts, Great Steak stands out with high-quality ingredients, made-to-order food and a setup that allows consumers to interact with their food prep. Combine that with a simple but effective menu with plenty of options, and it all adds up to a positive consumer experience that builds brand loyalty and repeat business, says Kari Combs, Vice President of Operations.

Great Steak’s affordable, fresh food builds fan base

Great Steak’s high-quality food stands out for busy shoppers looking for a quick, made-to-order meal. It’s one of the reasons new franchisees Mark and Beth Coleman have decided to open a Great Steak this summer at Fair Oaks Mall in Fairfax, Virginia, one of the state’s busiest malls.

“We really love the menu and fresh options. It’s quick-service style and not overly unhealthy, which appeals to more health-conscious customers,” says Mark. “Great Steak uses natural meat products, the food is all fresh and it’s all made on-site in front of the customer. It’s fresh food and good food!”

Great Steak also offers an affordable price point for high-quality menu options, which appeals to all generations, but especially Gen Z. “Our food is affordable, with an average ticket of $8-$10. And our use of high-quality ingredients is evident the moment a customer steps up to the counter,” Combs says. “We don’t prepare meals in advance. Our customers tell us how they want their food, and then we cook their meal in front of them. It’s dinner and a show!”

Great Steak is a low-cost investment opportunity with a proven business model in the
$19 billion sandwich industry. Since our brand’s founding in 1982, the Great Steak cheesesteak franchise family has grown to more than 50 locations nationwide as it partners with entrepreneurs who are passionate about bringing the classic American cheesesteak experience to their communities. Owners enjoy the support not only of Great Steak’s top-shelf management team, but also that of Kahala Brands™, one of the most trusted names in franchising with more than 3,000 premier locations nationwide. Whether you’re looking to bring authentic cheesesteak sandwiches to a shopping mall near you or wanting to open a friendly neighborhood eatery, Great Steak offers the right opportunity. There’s never been a better time to open a Great Steak.

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