Bob Evans-AVI create Bob Evans Express

Staff report

WARREN

Bob Evans Farms Inc. announced a partnership Tuesday with Warren-based AVI Foodsystems Inc. to develop Bob Evans Express.

The locations are small cafe areas that will offer Bob Evans products at venues such as workplace cafes, universities, airports, malls, service plazas, hospitals and more, according to a release from Bob Evans.

The first unit opened at the BMW Manufacturing Co. facility in Spartanburg, S.C., on Monday.

Bob Evans developed the concept with AVI after selecting AVI as its food- service provider for Bob Evans’ new corporate campus in New Albany.

“This new Bob Evans Express concept was a natural evolution of our relationship with AVI after discussing plans for our corporate campus. AVI has significant experience and expertise in nontraditional food venues, making them an ideal partner,” said Steven A. Davis, Bob Evans Farms chairman and CEO. “We’re pleased that two great Ohio companies are partnering together on this new innovative concept, which is full of possibilities for both companies.”

The second Bob Evans Express location will be introduced at the company’s employee cafe in Columbus this October.

Each Bob Evans Express will offer a menu of portable Bob Evans items.

“We are focused on providing our customers the family difference in hospitality services, making a quality brand such as Bob Evans a perfect fit,” said Anthony J. Payiavlas, president and CEO of AVI, in a statement. “This is a tremendous example of synergy ... two Ohio-based companies creating a winning concept that capitalizes on our core strengths.”

“This is the perfect opportunity to focus on the strengths of both companies. We’re looking forward to further developing our partnership,” Davis said.