Hospitality Seizes the Moment to ‘Change and Adapt’

by Sam Fox

“My team and I see new opportunities to bring people, passion and big ideas together. Whether it’s over food or a new restaurant experience, nothing means more to me than real connections.”

The entire restaurant industry had to adjust the business model almost overnight. “Change and adapt” became the north star and, during this public health crisis, we have redefined “hospitality.” That has meant serving our guests in new and innovative ways. We moved quickly to launch online ordering, curbside pick-up and contact-free delivery options across all our concepts. We also introduced weekly and daily Family Packs so that our guests could enjoy their Fox Restaurant Concept favorites from the comfort of their home. We worked together to change our business model overnight so that we could best serve our guests. While our restaurants are reopening for limited-capacity dine-in, we are continuing to focus on to-go and rolling out new technology that will provide a “lower contact” experience for all.

Witnessing the restaurant industry, small and large, take care of employees during the initial worst effects of COVID made me very proud to be a part of this business. 

During the worst of this pandemic, we had to pivot and take care of our people. We started an employee fund to help our Fox Family in need. We set out to raise $500,000 but, through the combined efforts of myself, my family, our loyal guests and our amazing employees, we surpassed our goal and raised more than $1 million to support our furloughed employees. These funds were raised to provide a little relief during a time of uncertainty. The circumstances were tough, but the kindness and generosity witnessed was something I’ll never forget.

We are motivated and moving faster than ever. My team and I see new opportunities to bring people, passion and big ideas together. Whether it’s over food or a new restaurant experience, nothing means more to me than real connections. I am excited to look ahead as we have some exciting projects in the works that focus on the digital and to-go experience. One of those projects is Fly Bye, an entirely new concept that is takeout only and opening December 2020.

We are turning something that was a negative into a positive by growing our Fox Family and inviting our guests to try some new food!

Raised on hospitality, Sam Fox has introduced dozens of ever-evolving Fox Restaurant Concepts brands, of which he is founder and CEO. He is an 11-time James Beard Award semifinalist for Restaurateur of the Year, a New York Times best-selling cookbook author, and was named one of the 50 most influential people in the restaurant industry by Nation’s Restaurant News for five consecutive years.  

Read the other “13 Top Valley Leaders on 2021” responses. »

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