Family Express Begins Expansion With New Prototype
VALPARAISO, Ind. — Family Express Corp. is launching a new modularized prototype convenience store to aid the company's growth goals. The first location of this type is being erected in Ligonier, Ind.
The convenience store retailer expects to meet its aggressive new development schedule using the prototype masonry buildings, which are prefabricated and assembled in a matter of days.
Each 7,200-square-foot modularized c-store will feature a full kitchen inside as well as an on-site car wash. The new stores will also feature Family Express's proprietary Cravin's-to-Order restaurants with online ordering and home delivery.
A video of the assembly process is available here on Family Express's website.
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"Our objective is to facilitate the rapid development of our Company and to remedy, to the extent possible, weather-related delays that are typical in the upper Midwest," said Gus Olympidis, president and CEO of Family Express.
Several Family Express stores are already prefabricated and ready to be delivered and erected, according to the company.
"The new FE [Family Express] prototype is using various masonry materials and Nichiha exterior finishes in an effort to deliver an upscale and contemporary feel," added Peter Andreou, vice president of development.
Valparaiso-based Family Express has a vertically integrated business model which includes Central Distribution, a proprietary central bakery and a host of proprietary brands from JavaWave coffees, FE milk, waters and unique ice. It operates more than 80 convenience stores in Indiana.
The company was previously recognized by Convenience Store News as the brand's 2020 Technology Leader of the Year.