Cosi, Inc., the fast casual restaurant company that was founded in 1998 and which operates in multiple states and abroad through both company and franchised locations, commenced a restructuring of its operations by closing thirty of its stores in December, 2019 and increasing its emphasis on catering, all to better align with current customer dining trends, further improve guest experiences and enhance its financial performance. 2020 has started well with increased sales in open in-store dining restaurants as well as the catering business.

In order to complete its transformation, which involves the shedding of certain legacy costs, further business streamlining and, possibly, select location moves, Cosi has filed for reorganization under Chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code. Cosi expects to emerge from Chapter 11 as a stronger version of itself, with a greater focus on its burgeoning catering business. Cosi has retained a chief restructuring officer, Jason F. Fensterstock, to assist with the development and implementation of its business plan and the associated cost cutting and initiatives which are well underway and include the opening of several new locations in the first half of 2020.