Ghost Kitchens Are Very Popular Now. But Are They a Permanent Trend?

This week Phillips Edison & Company released its industry insights on trending retail themes as part of ICSC’s virtual RECon event. Its most interesting theme heading into 2021—Ghost Kitchens. 

Phillips Edison & Company noted that there has been an increase in national brands, such as Fatburger, Nathan’s Famous Hot Dogs, Shake Shack, Fazoli’s and Bloomin’ Brands, using ghost kitchens to provide takeout and delivery service without opening a storefront. It also pointed to DoorDash has gotten in on the ghost kitchen trend with the introduction of DoorDash Kitchens. This concept provides customized kitchen space for five restaurant operators offering delivery and takeout service through the DoorDash app.