Chick-fil-A’s new Gretna outpost wasted no time drawing a crowd on June 11, with cars snaking through the drive-thru, customers stacking up at the walk-up window, and more than 1,500 transactions logged before the first day was over. Mayor Belinda Constant even jumped behind the counter to help serve lunch, while opening-day promotions kept the line rolling for hours and kicked off a month of specials and dozens of new jobs on the Westbank.
Opening Day, By The Numbers
More than 1,500 transactions went through the registers at Chick-fil-A Gretna on opening day, according to Biz New Orleans. The outlet reported that the drive-thru-focused restaurant at 83 Westbank Expressway currently employs about 90 team members and was still hiring after the June 11 debut, signaling that the operator expects the rush to stick around.
Drive-Thru Design And A Local Donation
The Gretna site is built as a drive-thru-focused prototype with a Mobile Thru lane, patio seating, carry-out service and third-party delivery options, according to Chick-fil-A. The company paired the grand opening with a $25,000 donation to Second Harvest Food Bank of Greater New Orleans and Acadiana and said the restaurant is expected to create roughly 100 jobs in the area.
Operator Says It Is About People
"As a local Owner-Operator, I have the unique opportunity to make a meaningful, lasting impact on the people around me," Sarah Triplett said in a press release via Chick-fil-A. Triplett, who also runs Chick-fil-A Algiers, said the new restaurant opens up advancement opportunities for team members and reflects her people-first approach that grew out of her earlier career as a teacher.
Mayor Joins The Line
Gretna Mayor Belinda Constant traded city hall for the drive-thru lane on opening day, serving lunch around 11:30 a.m., according to FOX 8. City officials framed the new restaurant’s arrival as another sign that national chains are still willing to invest in the Westbank economy.
Where This Fits
The Gretna opening slots into a larger Chick-fil-A push toward drive-thru-heavy formats across the country, including all-drive-thru prototypes in other markets. Closer to home, the Gretna restaurant is also planning to join in on Cow Appreciation Day on July 14 and to host a "Christmas in July" giveaway, according to Biz New Orleans.
