Openings

Friendly’s Gets Small

Photo: ninnet/Flickr

Friendly’s Express, a smaller, faster version of Friendly’s, will open its first location in Mansfield tomorrow, reports the Globe. Though the Wilbraham-based chain is loathe to call Friendly’s Express fast food, that wouldn’t be an inaccurate description: customers order from a limited, lower-priced menu (ice cream, burgers, soda) at the counter, and employees bring the food to tables within ten minutes. Friendly’s sales have dropped over the past few years, causing the company to shutter several locations (including the one in West Roxbury) and Friendly’s Express is seen as a growth opportunity. Friendly’s VP Jim Sullivan says that up to 300 Friendly’s Expresses could open over the next five years, many in Boston.

Don’t Call It Fast Food, Just Quick and Casual [Globe]

Friendly’s Gets Small