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Operators Like New McDonald's System.'s new back-of-the-house design to improve service and food quality is meeting with positive reviews from franchisees who have installed various components of the system since its introduction a year ago.The redesigned work spaces include to-order cooking stations that replace holding bins and heat lamps and high-tech toasters that increase the output of buns and

Operators Like New McDonald's System

.'s new back-of-the-house design to improve service and food quality is meeting with positive reviews from franchisees who have installed various components of the system since its introduction a year ago.

The redesigned work spaces include to-order cooking stations that replace holding bins and heat lamps and high-tech toasters that increase the output of buns and bagels by 43 seconds. The drive-through, which accounts for more than half of the chain's sales, has been updated with video screens that allow customers to verify and track their order.

Officials say the new system, which costs an average of $85,000 per unit, can support a larger menu and more dayparts, especially breakfast.

Larry's Bags Push Takeout Message

SEATTLE (FNS) -- Larry's Markets is using its plastic shopping bags as a billboard of sorts to reach time-crunched consumers with a message of relief. "We're cooking for you! Check out our great takeout," the bag recommends.

"In a hurry? Too busy to cook?" the bag asks, next to the Larry's Markets "Great Takeout" logo, designed for the operator's food-service department. Copy on the bag informs customers that the chain, based here, has a wide variety of options, including sushi; a salad bar; fried, rotisserie and barbecued chicken; Italian-style grilled sandwiches; and Mexican food. Larry's complete meals-to-go offerings, which include center-of-the-plate proteins with side dishes, are also featured on the bag.