QuikTrip to Test Drive-Thru Window

TULSA, Okla. — As part of its increased focus on foodservice, QuikTrip Corp. is testing a new in-store, sit-down restaurant concept at a west Tulsa location. The truck stop-size store at 6008 S. 49th West Ave. features a QT Kitchens counter, with a drive-thru window to be added this fall, reported Tulsa World.

"Food is a big part of our long-term strategy," stated QuikTrip spokesman Mike Thornbrugh. "We decided to start this sit-down restaurant to see if it's something customers would be interested in and a business we could be proficient at."

There is currently no timetable for the length of the test. The west Tulsa store is the only QuikTrip out of the chain's 700-plus locations to have a restaurant. QuikTrip's in-house staff designed the restaurant, which features two checkout counters, five touchscreen stations and several self-pay credit card readers, with bold graphics decorating the walls. Customers can order from the touchscreen computers or from store staff.

"We used to have a Wendy's at this store, so the space was there," Thornbrugh added. "When their lease ran out, we thought it would be a good spot to try our QT Kitchens here."

The test store has prepared foods such as hot dogs and pizza slices at the front of the store, while the restaurant area has the same items with the addition of extra-large whole pizzas. QT Kitchens also features sandwiches and wraps, pizza, desserts and beverages made to order. QuikTrip will likely expand its restaurant menu over time and test new items, according to Thornbrugh.

While early results have been positive since the restaurant opened approximately a month ago, Thornbrugh noted that it is too soon to say whether it is a definite success. However, it could lead to major additions for the convenience store chain in the future.

"If sit-down restaurants are successful, they will allow us to continue to evolve," Thornbrugh said. "They could be the launching pad to other things."