Renowned luxury furniture store Crate and Barrel recently announced the launch of its first full-service restaurant -- The Table at Crate at its Oak Brook, Illinois location. The restaurant will be led by James Beard-nominated chef Bill Kim and is part of a collaboration between Cornerstone Restaurant Group.
“As a longtime destination for all things home, we know that our customers love to entertain,” said Neela Montgomery, CEO, Crate and Barrel. “We share that passion and The Table at Crate creates a more immersive brand experience for our customers.” The restaurant will feature dishes made from local farmers' produce, sustainably sourced salmon, and ABF certified chicken.
Crate and Barrel was not the first to make the jump from furniture retailer to a restaurant -- Restoration Hardware launched its first standalone restaurant in Yountville back in November 2018. Consumers may expect further brand diversification from home furnishing retailers.
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Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Brand Diversification
- Home furnishing retailers are increasingly expanding into full-service restaurants, providing customers with a more immersive brand experience.
- Sustainability
- Restaurants associated with home furnishing retailers are prioritizing locally-sourced and sustainable ingredients, catering to the growing demand for eco-friendly and ethical dining options.
- Collaborations
- Collaborations between furniture retailers and renowned chefs present an opportunity for unique culinary experiences and cross-industry synergies.
Where This Applies
- Home Furnishing
- The home furnishing industry is embracing the concept of full-service restaurants as a way to create a more comprehensive brand experience and drive customer loyalty.
- Restaurant
- Restaurants associated with home furnishing retailers are disrupting the traditional dining landscape by offering unique dining concepts that combine interior design and cuisine.
- Hospitality
- The collaboration between furniture retailers and restaurant industry professionals opens up opportunities for innovative hospitality experiences that seamlessly integrate interior design, cuisine, and customer service.
