Chicago startup Foxtrot is preparing for a big expansion as it looks to launch dozens of neighborhood convenience stores over the next two years.
Foxtrot announced this week that it's planning to add 50 stores throughout the country, with locations coming to New York City, Austin, Boston, Miami, Los Angeles, Houston and other cities. Foxtrot currently operates 13 stores in Chicago, Dallas and Washington, D.C.
The expansion comes after Foxtrot raised $42 million in funding earlier this year. It's raised a total of $65 million to date.
Foxtrot is reinventing the corner store by offering a modern shopping experience with cafes in the morning and bars in the evening, along with gifts, food, wine and other merchandise. It provides 30 minute delivery, as well as in-store pickup from its app. Last year Foxtrot's sales increased 100% year-over-year, and it also saw a 100% increase in its app downloads.
Founded in 2013 as an online-only food and alcohol delivery service, Foxtrot has doubled down on physical retail over the years, providing shoppers with an upscale alternative to their traditional corner stores.
"In an increasingly digital world, and especially as we exit the pandemic, we believe retail will continue to thrive if done right — beautiful spaces, tailored to the neighborhood, highlighting local makers and artisans, and providing a friendly, warm gathering space for all," CEO and co-founder Mike LaVitola said in a statement.
Foxtrot's investors include David Chang, Sweetgreen co-founder Nicolas Jammet, former Whole Foods CEO Walter Robb, and Revolution’s Rise of the Rest Seed Fund.
