Aloha Poke Co. Launches Strategic Franchise Expansion Plan

CHICAGO – Aloha Poke Co., the popular fast casual brand, which just three years ago pioneered Poke concept restaurants in the Midwest, announced today its plans to expand through franchising. Solidified already in five U.S. markets as the top spot for innovative poke bowls inspired by the popular Hawaiian diced, marinated seafood dish, Aloha Poke is targeting its next growth wave in a concentrated set of markets. At the onset of franchising, the brand will focus growth in areas where existing locations have built a loyal fanbase, as well as in adjacent regions. This includes cities and towns throughout the Midwest, Southeast and Northeast.

“The moment is now for Aloha Poke – we’ve proven the business model over three years of expansion,” said Chris Birkinshaw, CEO of Aloha Poke Co., and the architect of the brand’s franchising initiative. “As restaurant franchise investors evaluate Aloha Poke, I’m confident they’ll recognize our business’s remarkable opportunity for great returns, and we couldn’t be more ready to grow together.”

To that point, the Aloha Poke franchise opportunity has been refined to combine attractive initial capital requirements with compelling unit economics, resulting in an appealing sales-to-investment model. Additionally, the brand has a flexible footprint requiring as little as 250 square feet to 1,200 square feet or more, offering franchisees better access to prime real estate. With no need for grills, fryers or ventilation, what sets Aloha Poke apart is the operational simplicity and ability to serve customers quickly in a simple, clean and trendy environment.

Based in Chicago, Aloha Poke Co. currently has 18 locations, primarily in the Midwest, including Illinois, Wisconsin and Minnesota, as well as Washington D.C. and Florida. Aloha Poke plans to grow by targeting multi-unit deals in proximate growth markets including Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, Tennessee, Georgia, Florida and North and South Carolina with the goal of having 100 locations open and in development by 2022.

“Our team is committed to growing the brand alongside like-minded franchisees that share the same passion and energy for life, as well as have a sincere appreciation of the importance of eating healthier,” added Paul Tripodes, vice president of franchise development for Aloha Poke Co. “Today’s consumers are choosing better-for-you options that are made with fresh ingredients, which Aloha Poke offers through our menu that caters to a wide array of diets and lifestyles, including gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian and paleo options.”

By combining superfoods with super good vibes, Aloha Poke Co. is helping America rethink fast food and choose a healthier alternative to the usual sandwich, burger or pizza options. Serving long-line caught Ahi tuna, salmon responsibly raised without antibiotics, cage-free no-antibiotics-ever chicken, steamed shrimp and tofu, Aloha Poke offers both house creations with chef-designed ingredients and sauces, or the fully-customizable pack your own bowl (P.Y.O.B) option, with endless flavor combinations.

As the brand continues to expand into key markets, Aloha Poke is actively seeking qualified multi-unit owners looking to add an exciting health-forward, fast casual concept to their portfolios. Ideal Aloha franchisees must have restaurant operations and management experience, as well as share the brand’s values and mission to positively impact the country’s need for healthy and quick food options. Franchisees must have a minimum net worth of $500,000 and meet the minimum liquid assets requirement of $250,000. The total investment per restaurant ranges between $153,500 and $386,500 for a single unit.

About Aloha Poke Co.

Proudly serving superfoods with super good vibes, Aloha Poke Co. packs fresh, fast and tasty bowls filled with quality, mostly-raw ingredients blending bold flavors that help the American consumer rethink fast food. Headquartered in Chicago since launching in 2016, Aloha Poke currently has 18 locations open throughout the Midwest, Southeast and Mid-Atlantic.

With efficient start-up costs and prime markets available, Aloha Poke Co. is actively seeking qualified franchise candidates.

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