The Cranford Planning Board convened on August 20, 2025, to discuss significant developments regarding local food manufacturing and delivery operations. The meeting highlighted a strategic shift by Wonder, a food service company, which transitioned from a food truck model to a traditional brick-and-mortar approach.
Initially, Wonder utilized food trucks for direct delivery to customers, employing Mercedes Sprinter vans equipped with electric kitchens. However, over the past two years, the company has completely overhauled its strategy, moving away from food trucks to establish 58 brick-and-mortar locations, with plans to reach 90 by the end of October 2025.
During the meeting, representatives discussed the implications of this shift on the site originally designed for food truck operations. The existing infrastructure, including oversized parking stalls and specialized loading bays, was tailored for the food truck model. These features are not suitable for larger delivery vehicles, which raises concerns about the facility's current and future use.
The board addressed how the change in operational model affects the site’s functionality, particularly regarding food manufacturing and delivery activities that were previously conducted outdoors. The discussions underscored the need for potential modifications to accommodate the new business model effectively.
The meeting concluded with a focus on the necessary adjustments to the site to align with Wonder's evolving operational needs, ensuring that the facility can support its growing number of locations while maintaining compliance with local regulations. Further discussions and evaluations are expected as the planning board continues to assess the implications of these changes on the community.