I was recently watching the Travel Channel and they had a very interesting segment on the “World’s Best Fast Food Stops.” I’m a huge fan of fast food (as my increasing stomach size can attest to), but the segment was truly compelling as it showcased the world’s top fast food joints (e.g. McDonald’s, Subway, Taco Bell, etc.) being even more innovative than they already are. They say one of the most important decisions a business can make is determining where to be—i.e. location, location, location.
Well, not only do the big fast food powerhouses understand this, some have taken it a step further by developing restaurants that are tailored to the customers they serve. For example, the Taco Bell at Pacifica, CA is designed like a surf shack and steps away from the ocean—ready to serve a Chalupa to the numerous surfers who frequent that location. In fact, they even have a ‘walk-thru’ window for the surfers to cruise up barefoot, with surf board in toe.
Taco Bell on the beach at Pacifica, CA
As banks and credit unions continue to cater to the unique communities they serve, this type of innovative approach to their actual locations may serve them well. For example, a bank branding itself as ‘local’ and ‘convenient’ could connect with its young Californian clientèle by placing ATMs at skate parks and next to the beach. Just a thought.
