General Manager (GM) Lexxy Husted is incredibly excited about having an updated Taco Bell. And for us, a happy leader means everything! Lexxy is GM of our Allendale, MI location, a growing college town with Grand Valley State University just down the street.
Allendale’s midterm refresh took less than two weeks and was completed in May. Operations only had to shut down fully for two days (while the kitchen was updated); drive-thru service remained available the rest of the time!
Lexxy says her team, many of whom are college-aged, were equally excited. They’d often move the plastic floor-to-ceiling sheeting to sneak a peek at what was going on during their shifts.
The Details
Allendale’s exterior has been transformed from Taco Bell’s previous color palette to a more modern mix of purple, grey and white accents that’s becoming more prominent today. Lexxy says other outside updates included redoing sidewalks, a new building sign and artwork, and the welcome addition of purple LED lights.
Allendale’s kitchen refresh included expanded dish space, new countertops and more shelving. Lexxy says she asked for a bigger freezer and got it! At Border Foods we pride ourselves on listening and giving our restaurant teams a voice.
The lobby reopened with new furniture, tables and lighting; an updated front counter area; a new slushy machine; and freshened up walls. The bathroom was also remodeled, which any guest or member of the team will appreciate.
“I like how the customers really enjoy it,” Lexxy says. “It looks nice; now it’s new and inviting more people in.”
Perhaps most importantly, Lexxy got the DoorDash walkup window she’s wanted for so long! Previously, door dashers would hold up the ordering line. Now, with the new sliding window, these guests only have to come into the vestibule (between exterior and interior doors) to buzz and notify the team; they no longer have to enter the lobby. This is especially helpful during late-night shifts.
“It really helps my speed a lot,” Lexxy says. “And the safety of my crew members.”
Several QSR competitors are in the area – including Burger King, McDonald’s and Arby’s – but they all close earlier, according to Lexxy. So with lots of traffic, kids being out of school for the summer and plenty of people living in surrounding areas, the Allendale Taco Bell sees lots of action – day or night!
Check out the Allendale glow up for yourself! Visit today:
4989 Lake Michigan Drive
Allendale, MI
