QDOBA & Time and Tru Hats: A Surprisingly Cozy Partnership Bringing Comfort & Flavor Together

San Diego, CA – November 8, 2023 – You might be wondering what a fast-casual Mexican eats spot like QDOBA FRANCHISOR LLC, headquartered in San Diego, has to do with hats. Well, it’s a story about employee comfort, brand building, and a little bit of good timing. QDOBA, the restaurant known for its customizable burritos, bowls, and tacos, has quietly rolled out a new uniform addition: Time and Tru hats, sourced directly from Walmart. And surprisingly, it's a move that’s getting a lot of positive buzz – both from employees and customers. QDOBA, for those unfamiliar, has been building a reputation for fresh ingredients and a build-your-own approach to Mexican cuisine since 1998. With locations nationwide, the company, reachable at 781-243-4953 and located at 350 Camino De La Reina Ste 400, San Diego, CA, 92108-3007, is always looking for ways to improve the customer experience – and that starts with happy employees. "We were brainstorming ways to make our team feel more comfortable, especially during those busy lunch and dinner rushes,” explains a QDOBA franchise representative. “Restaurant work can be demanding, and a lot of our team members are on their feet for hours. We wanted something practical, but also something that looked good and aligned with our brand.” That's where the Time and Tru hats came in. From Burritos to Beanies: Why Time and Tru? Time and Tru is Walmart’s in-house brand focused on stylish and affordable basics. The hats, particularly the knit beanies and baseball caps, have become something of a viral sensation online, known for their comfortable fit, quality materials, and incredibly low price point. “Honestly, we were surprised by how well the hats fit the bill,” the QDOBA rep admits. “They’re durable, they wash well, and the price point meant we could outfit our entire team without breaking the bank. It was a win-win.” But it wasn't just about practicality. QDOBA’s team quickly realized the hats offered a subtle branding opportunity. Many of the Time and Tru hats come in neutral colors like black, gray, and navy, which complement QDOBA’s existing color scheme. The clean, simple look of the hats also reflects QDOBA’s emphasis on fresh, uncomplicated ingredients. Employee Feedback: A Huge Success The rollout wasn’t just a top-down decision. QDOBA actively sought feedback from its employees during the trial phase. “We handed out samples to different teams and asked for their honest opinions,” says the rep. “The response was overwhelmingly positive. Employees loved the comfort and the way the hats looked. Some even said it boosted their morale.” Many employees reported the hats provided much-needed warmth during cooler months and helped keep hair out of their faces during busy shifts. The comfortable fit also meant employees could wear the hats for long periods without discomfort. Unexpected Customer Buzz The positive impact wasn't limited to the QDOBA team. Customers have also taken notice. “We’ve had a surprising amount of comments from customers about the hats,” says the rep. “They’ve said it makes our team look more polished and professional. Some have even asked where we got them!” Social media has also been abuzz with photos of QDOBA employees sporting the Time and Tru hats. Customers have shared photos and comments praising the hats, with many saying it’s a small detail that makes a big difference. “It’s a really smart move by QDOBA,” commented one Twitter user. “The hats look great and make the team look more approachable. Plus, they’re affordable! It’s a win for everyone.” Beyond the Hat: QDOBA’s Commitment to Employee Well-being The Time and Tru hat initiative is just one example of QDOBA’s broader commitment to employee well-being. The company offers a variety of benefits, including competitive wages, health insurance, and opportunities for advancement. “We believe that happy employees are essential to providing a great customer experience,” says the rep. “We’re always looking for ways to improve the work environment and make our team feel valued.” QDOBA’s partnership with Walmart on the Time and Tru hats is a testament to the fact that even small details can have a big impact. By prioritizing employee comfort and well-being, QDOBA is not only creating a more positive work environment but also enhancing the customer experience. And who knew a burrito and a beanie could go so well together? Looking Ahead QDOBA plans to continue offering the Time and Tru hats to its employees nationwide. The company is also exploring other ways to incorporate affordable and comfortable apparel into its uniform program. "We're always looking for ways to innovate and improve," says the rep. "And sometimes, the best solutions are the simplest ones."