Robert Kluger, Chief Development Officer at Kura Sushi, joins Matt to share the story behind Kura Sushi, a revolving sushi bar restaurant originating from Japan. He discusses how Kura Sushi leverages technology, such as revolving sushi belts and drink robots, to enhance labor efficiency and create unforgettable customer experiences. Robert, who has held leadership roles at industry giants like Panda Express, Panera Bread, and Blaze Pizza, also shares his personal expertise in scaling restaurant brands and selecting prime real estate in today’s competitive market. About Robert Kluger Mr. Kluger has served as Chief Development Officer of Kura Sushi USA since May 2020. Most recently, Mr. Kluger served for four years as Senior Vice President of Development and Vice President of Real Estate for Blaze Pizza, LLC, a fast casual artisan pizza brand with approximately 340 units worldwide. Blaze Pizza added over 200 franchise-operated restaurants during Mr. Kluger’s tenure. Prior to Blaze Pizza, he spend 6 years at Panera Bread, the largest bakery-café concept in the U.S. also with a presence in Canada, as their Senior Development Manager. During his first 3 years at Panera Bread, Mr. Kluger rapidly grew Panera Bread’s footprint in Southern California opening both company and franchise operated bakery-cafés, then in his last 3 years was charged with leading franchise development nationwide. During Mr. Kluger’s tenure, Panera Bread opened approximately 800 bakery-cafes. Previously, he spent 12 years at Panda Restaurant Group and held various roles including Vice President of Real Estate. Panda Restaurant Group, parent to Panda Express, Panda Inn and Hibachi San is the largest quick service Chinese restaurant chain in the U.S. and internationally. Mr. Kluger was charged with growing Panda Express in traditional and non-traditional venues across the United States. Panda Express opened approximately 1,300 restaurants during Mr. Kluger’s tenure. Mr. Kluger started his career in field operations and a corporate capital planner and financial analyst at The Vons Companies Inc., at the time the largest grocery chain in Southern California with over 300 units and $5 billion in total sales. About Kura Sushi Since the opening of its first restaurant in 1977, our parent company, Kura Corporation and Kura Sushi USA have grown to over 600 locations across Japan, Taiwan, and the United States. As pioneers of the “revolving sushi” concept, the Kura family of companies have improved upon the idea and developed innovative systems that combine advanced technology, premium ingredients, and affordable prices to create a unique revolving sushi dining experience.We pay particular attention to the taste, sourcing, and preparation of all of our dishes. Nothing is more important to sushi than the rice and the vinegar. We evaluated over 100 varieties of rice before selecting the perfect one to mix with our secret vinegar recipe. Also, our philosophy of “muten” or “nothing added” is an ongoing promise that our food is prepared using natural ingredients with no additives or artificial preservatives.
