Sbarro's Brand Named in US News List of businesses in Trouble

The brand name of one of Cal State's newest restaurant faces may be in trouble, according to a recent US News list of companies at risk.

The list named the Sbarro's pizza as one of 15 firms that might not survive 2009 due to the fact that many of the company's locations are in shopping malls where customer traffic is on the decline and the lack of revenue boosting options like breakfast or late night menus available to competitors.

The CSULB location has experienced some difficulty since it's fall 2008 opening, but Manager Fernando Rivera remains optimistic.

"It's not what we expected, but we're doing what we need to do to keep business up. We've reduced our prices and added daily specials, and it's helped so far. It's a tough time for everyone, but I'm not fearing for the future of the company yet," Rivera said.

Sbarro's is located on the second floor of the University Student Union next to the Wells Fargo Bank, and is currently offering a "Happy Hour" promotion on weekdays from 5:30 p.m -8:00 p.m. and an early morning drink or bread stick special with the purchase of any entree.