Corner Bakery Café Embarks on Major Revitalization and Expansion Drive
Corner Bakery Cafe has completed renovations at seven locations, as part of its nationwide growth and revitalization strategy. The brand also plans expansions with new corporate and franchised locations.
Corner Bakery Cafe has announced significant renovations at seven locations - one in Pennsylvania and six in California. These renovations are part of the brand's long-term growth and revitalization strategy to enhance customers' dining experiences.
Since its acquisition in June 2023, Corner Bakery has been committed to self-funded enhancements and reinvested over $6.2 million into the business. Recent remodels in California, completed between October 2024 and January 2025, feature refreshed interiors and exteriors designed to improve the guest experience while maintaining the cafe's signature neighborhood charm.
"Our guests deserve cafes that look and feel special. We want our communities to know that we're here to stay," said Chris Dharod, CEO of Corner Bakery.
The renovations include updates to seating, flooring, decor, beverage counters, awnings, and patio furniture, all designed to create a more modern, comfortable atmosphere for guests. The brand's commitment to growth is also evident in its expansion of self-ordering kiosks, which aim to improve the guest experience through technology.
As part of a broader revitalization effort, Corner Bakery plans to spend another $500,000 to remodel additional locations, primarily in Illinois and Pennsylvania, in the first half of 2025. The brand's ultimate goal is to update all its locations by 2027.
In addition to the renovations, Corner Bakery is also focused on expanding its presence with new corporate cafe investments. Following the opening of Union Station in Chicago and Capital Hill in Washington D.C. in July 2024, the brand plans to reopen the Accenture Tower location in one of Chicago's busiest train stations on March 24, 2025. These three locations represent a total investment of over $1 million from the brand. A fourth new location is slated to open in Irvine, CA, in May 2025.
The brand is also expanding through franchising. A new franchise cafe in El Paso, TX, opened in February under Bakery Ventures, led by franchise owner Tyson Duncan. This marks the fifth Corner Bakery Cafe in El Paso and the sixth overall for Bakery Ventures.
