This fast-growing chain says ‘no discounts' – and it's paying off

Core Perspective - Cava differentiates itself from competitors by avoiding discounts, believing that this strategy fosters long-term customer relationships and value [1][3][5] Company Strategy - Co-founder and CEO Brett Schulman emphasizes that offering discounts can lead to a "short-term trap" and does not align with Cava's long-term goals [2][5] - Cava's strategy focuses on enhancing the overall dining experience rather than competing on price, with an emphasis on high-quality Mediterranean food and convenience [10][11] Industry Context - The fast-food sector is currently facing challenges such as margin pressures from supply chain issues and increased labor costs, leading many companies to rely on discounts to attract budget-conscious consumers [8][9] - Following McDonald's reintroduction of Extra Value Meals, competitors have intensified their discount strategies, contrasting with Cava's approach [6][8] Performance Metrics - Cava has experienced consistent sales growth over the past two years, with new locations generating over $3 million in revenue, setting a record for the company [10] - The company plans to enhance its dining spaces and introduce new menu items, such as roasted salmon, in the upcoming year [13]