Founded in 2013, Grabbagreen® combines healthy food with the speed of traditional fast food dining. Patrons can order from a creative menu featuring fresh salads, bowls, juices, and smoothies—all laden with good-for-you super foods. When the trend-setting eatery was looking for help with sprouting their first Minnesota locations, we stepped up to the plate. With knowledge of the quick-service restaurant industry, the cities and the landlords, we put together a detailed, competitive bid. When ours was selected, we were ecstatic—and got right to work.
Our Approach
We kicked off construction on the first location in Edina in early February 2017 and began work on breathing life into the 1,800-square-foot space. Although brand-new, the space was “vanilla,” meaning it had painted walls, mechanicals, and windows but none of the equipment, finishes, and brand-specific details.
In this particular case, the franchise owner provided all the millwork, cabinetry, furniture, and back-of-house signage. We maintained constant communication with our plumbing, mechanical and electrical contractors to make sure these custom components were installed to spec. Because the space is housed within a mixed-use development, we also coordinated closely with residents to make sure our work didn’t get in their way.
Construction on the second location, Maple Grove, began in early April 2017 and concluded in early May with an opening shortly thereafter. Maple Grove consisted of converting a vacant sandwich shop to a Grabbagreen®. It came with the challenge of trying to reuse existing equipment and finishes while maintaining Grabbagreen® standards and satisfying current code requirements for restaurants. Regardless of the challenges, the store opened on-time, within budget, and to the great satisfaction of the franchisee and corporate.
The Results
Despite permitting issues on the front end of the projects, we wrapped everything up as scheduled. Grabbagreen® Edina celebrated its grand opening on April 1 and Maple Grove celebrated on May 1., and it’s safe to say the communities have embraced the new concept. If you haven’t tried one of their acai bowls or fresh-pressed juices, get over there now!