Amy's Drive-Thru Closes: Plant-Based Chains Face Tough Times

0:00This is Corey, and here's what is making news across Durham right now. Amy's drive-through, a pioneer in organic vegetarian fast food, just closed its last stand-alone location in Roner Park, California after 10 years in. Business. Opened in 2015 as the nation's first organic vegetarian drive-through, it offered burgers and pizzas made with fresh ingredients. This shutdown marks the latest blow to plant-based chains, many of which have downsized or gone bankrupt amid tough market conditions. The restaurant industry faces steep challenges across the board, with 9 out of 10 operators citing high costs for food, labor, insurance, and energy. For vegetarian spots, expenses run even higher due to pricey plant proteins, organic produce, and labor-intensive vegan items like cheeses. About 42% of restaurants reported losses last year, making profitability elusive. Consumers are turning away from heavily processed fake meats loaded with fillers, gums, and sodium, favoring whole foods instead.

1:02Plant-based meat sales and stores have dropped 26% over the past two years. True vegetarians often skip meat mimics altogether, while burger fans show little interest in healthier swaps. Several high-profile chains have faltered recently, including slutty vegan, shrinking from 14 spots to a few. Netter Burger closing all US. Locations and plant-a-shuttering half its restaurants. Veggie Grill cut 40% of its stores before an acquisition saved it, and Kevin Hart's Heart House lasted just two years. Amy's Kitchen, the parent company founded nearly 40 years ago, will keep selling its popular frozen organic meals in 43,000 grocery. Stores nationwide. Their spot at San Francisco International Airport stays open to, proving the brand's strength lies in packaged goods rather than full service. Eateries. The Daily News Now is powered by our sponsor, a pillow that sounds as good as it feels. Built for listening in bed, S-O-L-L-I-SoliPillow.com