Description

Overview

History

Mel's Diner was founded in 1995 by Jerry Smith and his brother, of Waterloo Ontario. It has been an iconic 50's style diner in the University plaza, frequented by students for over 15 years. The diner was a place to make memories, being open 24 hours a day. Frosh week was a fun time for Mel's, with free breakfast served to university students every year for the past 12 years. On April 22th, 2010, a fire broke out in the university plaza, and tragically destroyed Mel's Diner, as well as many other local businesses. While properly insured, the when of Mel's plans to re-open as soon as possible, and expand his services. With your help, we can make this a reality.

Rebuilding

The plaza will be re-built, in place, with minor modifications, for new fire and handicap building codes. Mel's has been allocated more space for expansion in the new building. While timelines are still unclear, Mel's anticipates re-opening for business by the one year anniversary of the fire. In the past 15 years, the need for expansion and the demand for catering grew. For this reason, when re-building, Jerry has decided to expand the diner to meed demand.

Expansion

During peak hours Mel's was at capacity, and the need for an expansion is obvious. The new Mel's will see seating increase by 30%, and kitchen space increase by 50%. The original atmosphere of Mel's will never change, but services like catering and expanded take out will help meet customer demand. Jerry, Mel's Owner, is also looking into franchising to other locations, after re-opening the University Location.

Finances

Jerry was adequately insured to replace the existing diner, however, extra financing is needed to expand and expedite the process. Jerry is looking at a new innovative way of raising funds from the community to assist in this process. Funds contributed to the campaign will be used directly for the Mel's Diner expansion. In return for contributing to the plan, you are entitled to certain benefits.

Benefits

• Gift Cards: Gift cards of equal value are being offered at this time, which can be redeemed on or after opening day. T-Shirt: An Mel's t-shirt shipped to your address with a personal message from Jerry. Custom Tile: Mel's will be replacing its original Black and White tile floor. This is your opportunity to be a part of the new Mel's. Purchase a tile for 35$ and have a personalized message (60 Characters) embedded on one of the tiles on the new floor.
• Catering: The new Mel's will be offering catering services. For the low price of $250, you can receive a corporate catered lunch for up to 50 people after Mel's re-opening.
• Sponsorship: As a part of the reconstruction, Mel's Diner will allocate a select number of the symbolic black and white tiles to local companies that would like to contribute to the reconstruction. Other options are available. For more information, please e-mail contact@groupvestor.com

Message from Jerry

"Hi there everyone, I just wanted to take this opportunity to say "thank you". To all of you who are taking time out of your day and making a contribution to this campaign, thank you. I trust you will find great value in your purchase today. We are looking forward to exceeding all of your expectations as the local "Diner" you all came to know and love. Again, thank you for all of the love and support you have shown us."

Sincerely,

Jerry Smith