Latest news with #AlvinZhang
Yahoo
31-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Pokeworks Enters Second Half of 2025 with Strong Franchise Growth and Innovation Focus
Four new openings, multi-unit deals, and upgraded tech fuel momentum for the leading premium poke brand IRVINE, Calif., July 31, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Pokeworks, the fastest-growing fast-casual poke brand globally, is entering the second half of 2025 with strong performance and steady franchise expansion. So far this year, the brand has opened six new locations, signed new multi-unit development deals, and has 10 more stores slated to open by year's end across California, Massachusetts, Texas, North Carolina, and Tennessee. Pokeworks has further expanded its footprint in Texas with a newly signed agreement that fully sells out the Houston market, solidifying its growing presence in the region. "This momentum reflects the strength of our model and the passion of our franchise partners," said Peter Yang, Co-Founder and Chief Development Officer. "We're growing strategically in key markets across the country, and we're proud to support our franchisees with the tools and innovation they need to thrive." Innovation + Franchisee Support Driving Growth Pokeworks recently partnered with Qu, a leading provider of cloud-based unified commerce solutions, to upgrade its POS system, enhancing both operational efficiency and the franchisee experience. Among those driving Pokeworks' expansion is New York-based multi-unit franchisee Alvin Zhang, who expressed his enthusiasm for the brand's flexible model and hands-on guidance: "Pokeworks is the sweet spot for multi-unit franchisees. The brand offers strong brand support but still gives you the freedom to tailor each location to your community. They understand how important it is to find the right fit and work with you to make it happen." On the consumer side, the brand is focused on: Growing its loyalty program and membership Expanding add-on innovation to boost order value Completing a full brand refresh in-store and online Launching strategic content partnerships to drive awareness Franchise Development Focus In the second half of 2025, Pokeworks is focused on growing its presence in existing markets by supporting current franchisees, while also awarding new territories to qualified entrepreneurs to drive expansion into key markets nationwide. The Poke category itself is on an upward trajectory, with the global food market valued at approximately $9.3 billion in 2024 and projected to nearly double to $16.7 billion by 2030, growing at a compound annual growth rate of nearly 10%. With record same-store sales, continued guest engagement, and growing demand for healthy fast-casual options, Pokeworks is well-positioned for continued franchise growth through 2025 and beyond. The brand is actively seeking ambitious single and multi-unit operators to join its growing franchise system and bring its fresh, flavorful concept to communities across the U.S. For more information about its franchise opportunities, visit About Pokeworks Pokeworks was founded in 2015 with the simple mission of spreading its love of poke –the crisp, fresh, healthy Hawaiian favorite – with the world. Pokeworks' innovative Poke Your Way® approach is groundbreaking, offering guests over 50,000 ways to customize their poke order to match their eating preferences including vegan, gluten-free, and other mindful diets. The Poke Burrito has developed a cult-like following, much like Pokeworks' proprietary sauces, which range from sweet and spicy to savory. Pokeworks believes in supporting a healthy lifestyle and serving guests meals made from the freshest, highest quality ingredients from sustainable food sources. In 2022, the brand was honored to be named the "Top Poke Franchise" by Startups Magazine. Pokeworks has quickly expanded to become the leading fast-casual poke brand in the world with six consecutive years on Fast Casual's "Top 100 Movers and Shakers" list. The brand has 72 locations across 20 states, Taiwan, and Canada. For more information, visit or follow Pokeworks on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTok. * Disclaimer:This information is not intended as an offer to sell a franchise. Any financial performance data referenced is for illustrative purposes only. An offer can only be made through a Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD). Actual results may vary. Please refer to our Item 19 for full details. The financial performance data referenced in this release, including same-store sales growth and individual franchisee performance, are provided for informational purposes only and do not represent a guarantee of future results. Actual results will vary and are dependent on numerous factors including, but not limited to, location, operational experience, local market conditions, and the level of effort by individual franchisees. Pokeworks does not make any representations or guarantees regarding individual earnings or profitability. Prospective franchisees should review the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) and consult with their financial and legal advisors before making any investment decision. Contact: Elise Fricilone | Franchise Elevator PR | efricilone@ View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Pokeworks
CBS News
21-05-2025
- Business
- CBS News
Big Bang Business Competition at UC Davis highlights young entrepreneurs still in college
DAVIS — From injectable microchips for cattle to ultrasonic scanners that monitor brain swelling and devices to save a baby that's stuck during childbirth, UC Davis showcased some of the cutting-edge technology invented by California college students. "We have entities that work across biology and engineering and human medicine and veterinary medicine and design," said Joseph DiNunzio of the university's Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship. It's part of the university's annual Big Bang Business Competition, with more than $100,000 in prize money up for grabs. "They win a prize here, they get funding and they go out and start their companies," DiNunzio said. Alvin Zhang of Nexa Labs helped create a sensor placed inside cows that electronically spots health issues before disease spreads through the herd. "Why should you have to wait for something bad that happens before you take action?" Zhang said. "We want to take action as soon as possible." He says it could one day even be used in humans. "Our tech will be ready for use in July," Zhang said. "When a baby is born, typically, you want them to be face down," Madeleine Mumford said. Mumford, of Everest Medical, created new technology to save babies whose shoulders get stuck inside a mother's womb during childbirth. "I've heard stories of physicians breaking fingers trying to perform these maneuvers, and so what we're trying to do is enable them to do what they do but safely," Mumford said. Many of these young entrepreneurs have already formed companies and have patents pending before they even graduate. "Zero doubt in my mind you will see more than one of these companies have impact here in our region in sacramento, across the country, and across the world," DiNunzio said. This year's $25,000 grand prize went to Nexa Labs, the company that monitors cattle health. Six other cash awards were handed out for innovation in things like education, energy and human health.
