Ontario Chain Going Healthier

The Williams Fresh Cafe chain started to move in a healthy direction last week with the launch of its Healthy Resolution menu items.

The 40-unit Ontario fast casual chain, with 11 of its locations on campuses, has latched on to people’s New Year vows with its Healthy Resolutions campaign.

It has put two new plates on its menu called Perfect Portions, each containing fewer than 600 calories and costing less than 10 dollars. The company is giving customers an additional push in the right direction by giving out a free pedometer with each order, to help them track how much ground they cover walking and running.

The two new combos on the menu are:

• the Chicken Compac wrap with soup, apple, and choice of green tea or water;

• the Tuna Compac wrap with the same sides.

Field marketing manager Lauren McColeman said in a release that the two low cal meals are based on consumer feedback.

 “This is the first step we’re taking to provide guests with fresh, healthier alternatives and is the direction Williams is heading,” said CEO Corey Dalton.

In the future, the chain will reduce sodium, offer gluten-free items and buy local and seasonal ingredients.

The company is also going to social media with a contest offering the prize of a trip for two to Turks and Caicos. People enter the contest by “liking” Williams on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/williamsfreshcafe).

Originally published in RestaurantNews.com by Chris McGregor, Ontario Restaurant News Reporter, January 23, 2012.