PC 07/27/1994 - Laserfiche WebLink

Nico Gallegos, 1330 Versailles Ave., Alameda, is the Director of Operations for Caffino, Inc., and outlined their business operations. Their mission statement is to deliver high- quality coffee drinks within 60 seconds of the order being placed. During peak operations hours, the stands are staffed with three people inside as well as two "greeters" outside to take orders and assist in traffic direction. Mr. Gallegos stated that training is a high priority for their employees. Caffino evaluates their operations by hiring "Mystery Shoppers" who evaluate each store at least four times per month. Evaluation is on quality of food and drink served, cleanliness, speed, courtesy, etc., and management uses these evaluations to determine the store's accomplishment of corporate standards. Mr. Gallegos then described the incentives provided for the accomplishment of the corporate goals. Commissioner McGuirk inquired how the "Mystery Shopper Program" has rated the Treat Plaza store. Mr. Gallegos stated that particular site is the highest scoring store of their three locations. It should be considered an example of what is planned for the Pleasanton location. Jeremiah Lewis, illy Espresso, 943 Harrison, San Francisco, represented the supplier of espresso to Caffino, Inc. my Espresso is an Italian roasting firm located in Italy. This company has been in the U.S. for approximately fifteen years, sells the most expensive espressos on the market, and usually sells to high-end restaurants. Mr. Lewis stated that Caffino has absorbed the knowledge gained in 60 years of business and has passed it on to their employees. Mr. Lewis commended the integrity of the Caffino management. David Johnson, 1375 Locust St., #202, Walnut Creek, is the project architect. He described the architecture of the building as being very simple and straightforward, providing a fresh, new look. The materials consist of glass, metal, pipe rails, and tile. In response to the staff report suggesting the stand should complement the architecture of the shopping center, they feel their building stands on its own. Commissioner McGuirk inquired if Caffino, Inc., could abide by Condition 11 requiring them to landscape with 15 gallon trees. Mr. Johnson stated there are no trees in the existing planter and felt they would not be in favor of replacing "nonexisting" trees. In response to Chairman Wright, Mr. Johnson stated he would be willing to work with staff on some slight changes to the signage and roof detail. To Commissioner Barker's inquiry regarding lights, she was advised that they are turned off at 9 p.m. and turned on at 5:30 a.m. Mr. Swift advised that neon signs are allowed in most shopping centers. Michael Murphy, 1390 Willow Pass Road, #220, Concord, is the leasing agent for the property owner. Mr. Murphy advised that Color Tile is proposed to occupy 25% of the shopping center, becoming the anchor tenant. Color Tile Corporate has seen and has approved the plans of Caffino for this center. Planning Commission Minutes Page 3 July 27, 1994 -