PSI TV Covers the 1st Anniversary of Chick-fil-A North Dale Mabry (Tampa, FL)

<p>There is a certain energy you only find at a Chick-fil-A grand opening or anniversary. The air is filled with the scent of fresh waffle fries, the sound of "my pleasure," and, in the case of the <strong>Chick-fil-A on Ehrlich Road in Tampa</strong>, a full-blown birthday celebration. On May 15th, this specific location celebrated its very first year of serving the community, and the festivities were nothing short of spectacular.</p><p>Located right off Dale Mabry at <strong>3800 Ehrlich Road</strong>, this branch has quickly become a cornerstone of the local neighborhood. To mark the milestone, the team pulled out all the stops: face painting, balloon animals, and even a visit from the iconic Chick-fil-A cows. [Dr. Trudy Beerman](https://trudybeerman.com), CEO of [PSI TV](https://psitvnetwork.com)sat down with <strong>Addy Fell</strong>, the Marketing and Community Relations Director, to discuss what makes this location special and how they are keeping the legendary Truett Cathy legacy alive in the heart of Florida.</p><h2 data-level="2">More Than Just a Chicken Sandwich: The Hospitality Mission</h2><p>When you think of Chick-fil-A, you probably think of the classic chicken sandwich. But according to Addy Fell, the mission goes much deeper than the menu. Following the original <strong>Truett Cathy plan</strong>, the Ehrlich Road location focuses on three pillars: <em>hospitality, community, and presence.</em></p><p>"It’s more than a chicken sandwich," Addy explains. "It’s all about being a bright point in someone’s day and showing the hospitality that has been lost in the service industry." The goal for this location is to serve as a <strong>"third place"</strong>, a community hub that isn't home or work, but a welcoming space where people can gather, celebrate, and feel valued.</p><h3 data-level="3">A Massive Footprint in Tampa</h3><p>If you have driven around Tampa, you know there are several Chick-fil-A locations, but the Ehrlich Road store is one of the larger ones in the region. Getting the doors open wasn't without its challenges; the team had to navigate extensive permitting and water infrastructure requirements with the county. However, since its opening on May 15th, it has proven to be a vital addition to the Dale Mabry corridor, offering ample space for families to dine in and a high-capacity system to handle the inevitable lunch rush.</p><h2 data-level="2">Efficiency Meets Innovation: The Drive-Thru and Mobile Experience</h2><p>One of the most impressive stats shared during the anniversary event was the sheer volume of the drive-thru. Currently, the drive-thru accounts for roughly <strong>80% of total sales</strong> at this location. While Chick-fil-A is famous for its long but fast-moving lines, the Ehrlich Road team has implemented new technology to make the experience even smoother.</p><p>One of the standout features is the <strong>Mobile-Thru lane</strong>. This is a dedicated lane for guests who order ahead via the <strong>Chick-fil-A One app</strong>. Instead of waiting to speak with a team member at the traditional queue, app users can simply scan their code and move directly to the window. It’s a game-changer for commuters and busy parents who want to skip the line entirely.</p><h3 data-level="3">The Power of the Chick-fil-A One App</h3><p>Addy emphasizes that the app is about more than just speed, it’s about "surprise and delight." Unlike many rewards programs that require dozens of visits to earn a small side, the Chick-fil-A app is known for sending out frequent, unsolicited rewards. For the first anniversary, the store sent out <strong>free cookie rewards to over 18,000 frequent mobile users</strong>. Whether it’s a free breakfast item or a surprise 8-count nugget, the app is the best way for loyal guests to get a little something extra on the house.</p><h2 data-level="2">Exploring the Menu: Breakfast and Catering</h2><p>While lunch and dinner are the busiest times, Addy is on a mission to let Tampa know that <strong>Chick-fil-A breakfast</strong> is a hidden gem. Many people don't realize that the brand offers a robust morning menu until 10:30 AM.</p><ul><li><p class="bn-inline-content"><strong>The Egg White Grill:</strong> A healthy favorite consisting of an English muffin, grilled chicken, cheese, and egg whites. (Pro tip: Addy recommends trying it with Honey Roasted BBQ sauce!)</p></li><li><p class="bn-inline-content"><strong>Chicken Minis:</strong> Bite-sized nuggets nestled in warm, honey-butter brushed rolls.</p></li><li><p class="bn-inline-content"><strong>Chicken Biscuits:</strong> The classic breakfast staple that put Chick-fil-A on the morning map.</p></li></ul><h3 data-level="3">Catering for the Community</h3><p>Beyond the individual meal, the Ehrlich Road location is heavily focused on <strong>catering</strong>. From graduation parties and business meetings to family reunions and holidays, their catering service is designed to be a "crowd-pleaser." By building partnerships with local businesses and schools, the team ensures that the same hospitality found in the restaurant can be brought to any event in the Tampa area.</p><h2 data-level="2">A Culture of Leadership and Values</h2><p>Behind the fast service and delicious food is a unique corporate culture. The Ehrlich Road location is overseen by General Manager <strong>Connor Grindstaff</strong> and Franchise Owner/Operator <strong>Ricardo Sanchez</strong>. Their focus isn't just on selling chicken; it's on <strong>developing leaders</strong>.</p><p>Addy notes that while many of their staff members are high school or college students who may not stay with the company forever, the goal is to provide a "leadership development stepping stone." The team is trained to identify strengths and weaknesses, fostering an environment where kindness and the "my pleasure" attitude are second nature.</p><h3 data-level="3">The Sunday Tradition</h3><p>A hallmark of the Chick-fil-A brand is remaining <strong>closed on Sundays</strong>. This tradition, started by Truett Cathy, is strictly upheld at the Ehrlich Road location. "He valued giving his employees rest," says Addy. "I treasure that. No matter how crazy the work week is, I know I have Sunday off." While the team occasionally meets for staff "field days" or vision-casting meetings a couple of times a year, Sunday remains a sacred day for rest and family, which helps the staff return on Monday with renewed energy.</p><h3 data-level="3">Faith-Based Values in a Modern World</h3><p>Chick-fil-A is famously a faith-based organization, but Addy clarifies how this translates to their daily operations and hiring. While the core values are rooted in Christian principles, specifically the idea of being a "light in the world", those values are transcendent. You don't have to share a specific faith to work there or feel welcome as a guest. The focus is simply on <strong>universal kindness and hospitality</strong>. The "my pleasure" service is a way to be a bright point in someone’s day, regardless of their background.</p><h2 data-level="2">Key Takeaways for Chick-fil-A Fans</h2><ul><li><p class="bn-inline-content"><strong>Visit the Ehrlich Location:</strong> Find them at 3800 Ehrlich Road, Tampa, FL, for a spacious dining experience and efficient service.</p></li><li><p class="bn-inline-content"><strong>Download the App:</strong> Use the Chick-fil-A One app to access the <strong>Mobile-Thru lane</strong> and receive "surprise and delight" rewards like free cookies or nuggets.</p></li><li><p class="bn-inline-content"><strong>Don't Skip Breakfast:</strong> Remember that breakfast ends at <strong>10:30 AM sharp</strong>. Try the Egg White Grill for a healthy, high-protein start to your day.</p></li><li><p class="bn-inline-content"><strong>Plan Your Catering:</strong> Whether it's a graduation or a corporate lunch, Chick-fil-A catering offers a reliable and popular option for large groups.</p></li><li><p class="bn-inline-content"><strong>Sunday is for Rest:</strong> Plan your cravings accordingly, as all locations remain closed on Sundays to support employee well-being.</p></li></ul><h2 data-level="2">Conclusion</h2><p>The first anniversary of the <strong>Chick-fil-A Ehrlich Road</strong> location is more than just a celebration of a successful business year; it’s a celebration of community impact. Through their commitment to leadership development, local catering, and the timeless "my pleasure" service, Addy Fell and her team are proving that fast food can still feel personal. Whether you're stopping by for a quick breakfast on your way to work or bringing the whole family for a birthday treat, this Tampa staple is dedicated to being the highlight of your day. Here’s to many more years of chicken, cows, and community spirit!</p>