Spurgeons Automat - Think Elevator

Redefining How Chicago Enjoys Food & Drinks.

Spurgeons Automat is a cutting-edge vending destination, merging fresh culinary offerings with high-tech convenience. Our concept reinvents the classic automat experience by integrating diverse menus, modern design, and seamless digital engagement.

An Immersive Automat Experience

Multi-Machine Variety

From artisan pizzas and gourmet coffee to specialty snacks and fresh salads, Spurgeons Automat offers an array of choices that cater to every palate.

Mobile App Integration

Our multilingual app lets customers customize orders, pay seamlessly, and even earn loyalty rewards—reducing wait times and language barriers.

Bulk Storage & Freshness

On-site walk-in fridge/freezer for efficient ordering and minimal spoilage, ensuring consistent quality at a lower cost.

Captivating Décor

Seasonal theming, interactive digital displays, and a comfortable seating area ensure guests linger, snap photos, and share on social media.

Location & Opportunity

Strategically Positioned for Success at 436 S. Wabash, Chicago.

High Foot Traffic: Positioned within a bustling neighborhood frequented by commuters, students, and office workers.
Proximity to Universities: Columbia College Chicago, DePaul’s Loop Campus, and Roosevelt University are all nearby, ensuring a steady flow of students and faculty seeking quick, affordable meals.
Office & Business Centers: Surrounded by office buildings, offering a captive audience of professionals looking for fast, convenient lunch or snack options.
Tourism & Cultural Attractions: A short walk or transit ride to Millennium Park, the Art Institute of Chicago, and other major sites, attracting both domestic and international visitors.
International Hostel Across the Street: Guarantees a diverse, traveling customer base with a need for quick dining at varying hours.
Excellent Public Transit Links: Easy access to CTA trains and bus lines, plus the Metra, making it a convenient stop for residents and out-of-towners.
Existing Restaurant Infrastructure: Being a former restaurant space, the site includes a walk-in fridge/freezer and other crucial utilities—reducing initial build-out costs and speeding up the launch process.
Mixed Residential & Commercial Zone: Blends local foot traffic from apartment residents with daytime crowds from surrounding businesses, extending your peak hours and potential sales.

Seasonal & Community Engagement

Rotating Menu & Décor

Themed Items: Introduce limited-time flavors—like pumpkin spice pizzas in autumn, peppermint-infused coffee drinks in winter, or heart-shaped desserts for Valentine’s Day.
Festive Decorations: Refresh the interior with holiday-focused designs, from fall foliage to string lights and window displays, creating a memorable, photo-friendly space.

Partnerships with Local Artisans & Businesses

Collaborative Pop-Ups: Invite local bakers, chocolatiers, or microbreweries to supply exclusive treats for the machines—e.g., a locally roasted coffee blend or handcrafted pastries.
Neighborhood Tie-Ins: Co-sponsor events with nearby retailers, such as holiday markets or “Small Business Saturday” promotions, boosting cross-traffic.

Charitable & Civic Involvement

Seasonal Fundraisers: During Thanksgiving, Christmas, or back-to-school seasons, donate a portion of themed item sales to local nonprofits.
Food Drives & Give-Back Events: Host mini food drives or partner with local shelters; customers can drop off canned goods, with your automat offering a free or discounted item in return.

Community Workshops & Classes

Food Demonstrations: Occasionally invite local chefs or culinary students to demonstrate recipes linked to upcoming seasonal offerings—turning part of the space into an educational mini-workshop.
Cultural Celebrations: For events like Lunar New Year or Cinco de Mayo, showcase corresponding snacks, decor, and informational placards to embrace Chicago’s multicultural landscape.

Interactive Digital & Social Media Campaigns

AR (Augmented Reality) Holiday Hunts: Encourage customers to scan QR codes around the automat to unlock digital rewards or holiday-themed characters—perfect for social media sharing.
Photo Contests & Hashtags: Motivate visitors to post pictures using a branded hashtag—e.g., #SpurgeonsSeasonal—to win small prizes, fostering word-of-mouth and online buzz.

Local Festivals & Neighborhood Events

Cross-Promotions with College Fairs: Set up special deals during campus open-house weekends or alumni events.
Street Festivals & Parades: Align your seasonal menu changes with major city happenings (e.g., Chicago Summer Festivals, Lolapalooza, Pride Parade). Offer “festival-themed” snacks or sponsor a nearby booth to direct visitors back to your location.

Ongoing Feedback & Engagement

Seasonal Surveys: Through your mobile app or email list, invite customers to vote on upcoming themed flavors or special events.
Community Suggestion Box: Keep a digital or physical suggestion box for local residents, students, and hostel guests to propose new seasonal ideas—or highlight local charities that could benefit from future fundraisers.

Ready to Elevate with Us?

Spurgeons Automat welcomes partners, investors, and collaborators to help us redefine grab-and-go dining in Chicago. Whether you’re an industry veteran or a curious innovator, there’s room for you on this exciting journey.

Contact Think Elevator