At that time, a spokesman for the chain told the Orange County Register that the sale of the shuttered units would enable the company to invest in new store development and growth, including the development of a "store of the future" concept in partnership with ADMI, the firm that designed the Apple Store. However, the company has not commented on that project since and, in view of the ongoing closures, it is questionable how much future the chain has. Fresh & Easy was the entry vehicle developed by the United Kingdom's largest retailer, Tesco PLC. The chain debuted in 2007 with the first wave of 10,000-square-foot outlets offering low prices on a limited assortment of natural and organic food and takeout meals in a no-frills environment with little service. The concept failed to catch on with many shoppers and, in 2013, Tesco sold 167 of 200 Fresh & Easy stores to Yucaipa Cos. and closed the remainder. The chain is now positioned as a convenience format offering everyday-low prices.