MIAMI -- Healthy convenience concept Locali has signed a multiunit franchise agreement with Viable Foods LLC to expand the brand into the greater South Beach and Miami area in Florida. This deal marks the first expansion outside of California for Locali. Its owners plan to introduce its innovative "healthy convenience" model to markets nationwide.
Founded in 2009 by Greg Horos and Melissa Rosen, Los Angeles-based Locali has stores in West Hollywood, Hollywood, Venice Beach and downtown Los Angeles. It is opening its first East Coast stores in the South Beach-Miami, Fla., area beginning in 2018.
The concept is a franchised natural food store with a healthy and organic deli menu. Offerings include made-to-order sandwiches, such as the completely vegan “Badass Breakfast Sandwich,” which was named one of “LA’s 10 Best New Sandwiches” by Zagat, and organic produce salads, chia bowls, probiotic smoothies and other healthy options, many of which are vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free. It also offers grab-and-go options and a variety of curated food items.
Franchisee Roy Casiano, who operates Viable Foods with his wife Deanna Snyder, has been working in the food industry for more than 13 years, holding positions in operations and management. Most recently, he acted as general manager for Estiatorio Milos, a chain of high-end Mediterranean restaurants with locations in Miami and Las Vegas, among others.
“We are incredibly excited to apply our skills and expertise in the food and restaurant industry to grow Locali into a household name here in Florida,” Casiano said. “We are passionate about the Locali mission and lifestyle and believe that Locali’s healthy-convenience model will be a great addition to the area.”
Locali has a small store footprint with low startup and food costs, according to Fransmart, the franchise development company behind brands such as Five Guys Burgers & Fries, The Halal Guys and Qdoba Mexican Grill. It is Locali’s exclusive franchise development partner to grow the brand. Fransmart has opened more than 3,000 restaurants in 45 states and 35 countries. As of 2015, it had more 1,000 new restaurants in development.
Photo courtesy of Locali
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