During a well-deserved day off, I decided to satisfy my craving for Boston Market for lunch. I had not gone in months, and have always enjoyed their food as a higher-end, fast food chain option. I consider it a better alternative to fried chicken, and their side dishes can be tailored for a healthier meal, but I digress.
While preparing my meal, the person taking my order used a white plate. A real plate. Not a paper or disposable plastic plate, but a reusable melamine plate. I was pleasantly surprised, and even more shocked when the cashier put metal silverware on my tray. When I purchased a drink, the cup was labeled, “Made From 50% Recycled Plastic.” Knowing that recycled plastic is less translucent and clear than virgin plastic, I assume Coca-Cola was able to achieve this by producing a colored plastic. The green plastic cup is reminiscent of their classic green glass bottles, a good design strategy in both sustainability and brand nostalgia.
Looking around the restaurant, every customer ate lunch by using real silverware and white plates. There were paper placemats set on each table. A place card on the table notified customers that trays can be left and employees will bus your table. Even with this new service, a few customers cleared away their own trays. There was an air of civility and it heightened my overall dining experience.
Despite a minimal increase in prices, the company’s consideration in decreasing waste output and increasing the customer’s experience moves into Triple Bottom Line by Design. Boston Market’s new redesign still allows the company to make a profit, while also taking steps toward sustainability and ensuring customers’ happiness. My experience at Boston Market has made me a loyal customer and my next visit will definitely be sooner than later.
