Claro Corp

Cosi is a story about the sweet smell of success and the enticing aroma of fresh-baked bread. What began as a coffee and bar concept is now a leading national "fast-casual" restaurant that operates in 120 restaurants in 16 states.  One thing that hasn't changed is their signature flatbread.

Originally known as 'Xando,' the company expanded to include light dining fare to accompany its drink menu and re-branded under the Cosi name. Sandor Scher of Claro Development joined Cosi's Development and Construction department in 1996. In just five years, the company grew to over 100 restaurants located throughout the country. Locations vary from small stores within existing retail outlets to downtown city centers to free-standing establishments.

In 2006, Claro was engaged by Cosi to represent them as their owner's representative and construction manager in the development of first-generation prototypes in partnership with Federated Department Stores. The new restaurants are located in already existing department stores in South Florida.

Claro represented the company in all aspects of their store development, including lease negotiations, city approvals, design management, construction management, and implementation of operational needs. (We left the bread making to them.)

Owner: Cosi
Location: Miami-Dade / Broward County
Project Type: Retail
Number of locations: 5
Amenities: Bar, Indoor / Outdoor Seating
Budget: $4,000,000 total / $600,000 to $700,000 per store