Burger King has captured attention by announcing the closure of a substantial number of its U.S. outIets. This bold move, driven by a combination of internal and external factors, reflects the fast-food giant’s commitment to reshape its operations.
By diving into the intricacies of this decision and exploring the broader context of the company’s efforts to redefine its brand, it becomes evident that Burger King is embarking on a transformative journey in the competitive reaIm of fast food.
Strategic Rationalization of Burger King’s Outlets
The strategy of cIosing restaurants is not unfamiliar to Burger King. CEO Joshua Kobza’s recognition of the company’s annual practice of shuttering a certain number of outIets emphasizes its ongoing dedication to optimal performance.
However, the announcement of closing around 400 U.S. locations represents a more deliberate and significant step.
Chairman Patrick Doyle’s assertion that franchisees unabIe to consistentIy meet the system’s performance standards will be phased out underscores Burger King’s commitment to operational excellence.
This strategic pruning of underperforming outlets enables Burger King to allocate resources towards enhancing profitable establishments, thereby elevating overall performance and brand reputation.
The Rebranding and Modernization Strategy. This move aIigns with Burger King’s broader rebranding strategy and effort to fortify its standing in the competitive fast-food landscape.
Acknowledging challenges Iike stagnant sales and intensified competition, the company launched the ambitious Reclaim the Flame rebranding campaign in 2022, backed by a $400 million investment. This comprehensive approach encompasses revamped advertising, menu streamlining, and extensive restaurant makeovers, all aimed at revitaIizing the brand’s appeal. Burger King’s commitment to modernization is further exemplified by allocating $50 million over the next two years to revamp nearly 3,000 outlets.
‘Burger King’ Gives Shocking Announcement, Says It’s Closing Its Doors For Good
What Are Witches’ Stairs? A Simple Explanation of This Strange Home Design
Witches’ stairs are a strange but interesting design feature that became popular on TikTok a couple of years ago. Even though they have an unusual history, their name doesn’t really have to do with superstition. Instead, these stairs are a clever design choice. When made and installed correctly, they can be both useful and nice to look at!
Witches’ Stairs aren’t what they Appear.
While the stories about witches’ stairs might sound more interesting, they actually have a very practical purpose. They are really useful in homes with little space, like attics, lofts, and tiny houses. Witches’ stairs are designed to save space while still allowing you to go from one floor to another. Architects often call them “alternate tread stairs.”
How Witches’ Stairs Function
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Witches’ stairs are designed to save space in two ways. First, each step is only half as wide as regular steps, and the steps are staggered. This makes the staircase narrower than a traditional one. These smaller stairs can also be used for extra storage, like for books or displaying items. According to Scott Schuttner, who wrote “Basic Stairbuilding,” the distance between the steps on one side of an alternating-tread stair is twice the height of the rise, which gives you more space on the steps and makes them safer.
Besides being practical, witches’ stairs meet building codes and safety standards in the U.S. A standard staircase is usually 3 feet wide, while a residential witches’ staircase is typically between 27 and 30 inches wide.
Real Origins
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In 1985, a businessman named J.M. Lapeyre created a metal version of witches’ stairs. He thought these stairs could be a safe alternative to ladders in commercial and warehouse settings, especially in tight spaces where ladders might not be safe. This design is also used on commercial ships and oil rigs, and it can be called ship stairs or ship ladders, in addition to witches’ stairs and alternate tread stairs.
Misconception
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When videos of witches’ stairs first appeared on TikTok in 2021, they were linked to an urban legend. According to this legend, these staircases were built in 17th-century Massachusetts to keep witches away during the Salem witch trials because “witches can’t climb up them.” This idea has been proven false, but another rumor suggests that Thomas Jefferson came up with the design. Because of this, witches’ stairs are sometimes called Jeffersonian or Jefferson stairs. However, an original version of the design was also mentioned in a book called “Monckton’s One Plane Method Of Hand Railing and Stair Building,” published in 1888.
Debunking the Myth
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The exact origins of witches’ stairs are a bit unclear, but one thing is clear: there’s no historical evidence that they were designed to keep witches away. Historian Robin Briggs has studied many historical sources and found no mention of stairs that could disable witches. Interestingly, some people with these unique staircases also buried “witch bottles” or included dead cats in their homes for protection against witchcraft, but Briggs calls this idea “pure disinformation.” He notes that the closest belief was that putting a broom over the door would trap a witch inside.
While it’s fun to think about myths and legends, it’s also interesting to know the real history of witches’ stairs. Regardless, they offer a unique and decorative alternative to regular staircases, adding a fun and quirky touch to home design.
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