Latest news with #Pokeworks
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
Yahoo
14-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Pokeworks selects Qu as next-generation POS provider
Fast-casual poke bowl brand Pokeworks has chosen Qu as its next-generation point-of-sale (POS) provider in a move to modernise its restaurant technology. The partnership aims to streamline operations and provide real-time insights to foster growth. With 73 locations across 20 US states, Taiwan and Canada, Pokeworks reported an 11% same-store sales increase in April 2025. The brand is expanding its footprint, having recently announced a 10-unit franchise deal in San Antonio, Texas, and the complete sell-out of franchise territories in Houston. To support this growth, Pokeworks turned to Qu's flexible, cloud-native platform, which is designed to scale with ease and support franchise expansion. The unified solution provided by Qu is set to alleviate operational challenges, enhance order accuracy and offer oversight across all locations. Pokeworks co-founder and head of IT Kasper Hsu stated: "With rapid advancements in restaurant technology, we needed a partner that could future-proof our operations while supporting the success of our franchisees." "Qu's ability to seamlessly integrate with emerging technologies and provide real-time operational control made it the clear choice. Their team not only understood our vision for growth and innovation but also our commitment to empowering franchisees with the tools they need to thrive." Franchise owners are now equipped with a system that enables unmatched performance, including 99.99% uptime, thanks to Qu's triple redundant platform. This ensures minimal downtime even during peak hours. The platform also allows scaleability for franchisees, centralised menu control and consistent operations. Qu's certified integration ecosystem streamlines multiple systems into a connected tech stack, with more than 100 partners in loyalty, labour, payments and gift cards. Qu's Notify, a real-time operational intelligence tool, is a key feature being utilised by Pokeworks. This voice and chat-enabled mobile app provides instant performance alerts and insights, enabling store managers and franchisees to access data conversationally. Notify offers customisable reporting, trend identification and performance analytics, allowing operators to gain insights and respond swiftly. The partnership positions Pokeworks to leverage AI-driven tools and emerging technologies, owing to Qu's microservices architecture. Qu's development sprints, which occur every three weeks, align with Pokeworks' focus on innovation, ensuring continuous improvement without disrupting customer experience or complicating operations. Qu CEO Amir Hudda stated: "Pokeworks is growing quickly, and we're focused on helping them scale with more efficient, connected operations." "We built Qu to give restaurant operators and franchisees flexible, easy-to-use tools that support their growth and drive profitability, positioning them for whatever comes next. Whether it's new tech or shifting guest habits, Pokeworks will be ready." In April 2025, Qu introduced a Smart Kitchen platform to integrate energy and equipment management for restaurant operations. In May 2025, Pokeworks launched a new range of signature drinks in collaboration with beverage company Botrista. "Pokeworks selects Qu as next-generation POS provider" was originally created and published by Verdict Food Service, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
21-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Pokeworks announces ten-unit deal in San Antonio, Texas
Fast-casual poke brand Pokeworks has announced a ten-unit franchise deal in the city of San Antonio, Texas, and the sell-out of available franchise territories in Houston. Poke is a traditional dish from Hawaii made with diced raw fish, typically tuna, marinated in a sauce and served in a bowl. It is often served over rice or with other toppings. Agustin Guzman, an experienced entrepreneur and former Olympic swimmer, is set to develop the greater San Antonio market and the Rio Grande Valley. Guzman operates Pokeworks' McAllen location, is opening a second in Mission, Texas, and is committed to opening ten stores within two years. His extensive experience across various industries and belief in Pokeworks' performance and potential fuel this planned expansion. "I've experienced success across varying industries, but what sets Pokeworks apart is their momentum - it's a high-performing brand that's constantly improving, innovating and growing," stated Guzman. "The brand's alignment with my values, alongside their strong unit economics and continued expansion, makes the decision to expand into San Antonio a clear one." The brand's strategic growth is also evident in Houston, where all available franchise territories have been claimed. The city's strong market performance and franchisees' continued investment underscore the brand's ability to succeed in competitive environments. Pokeworks co-founder and chief development officer Peter Yang expressed pride in the brand's Texas achievements. "Texas has always remained a key market for our growth plans, and selling out its largest city while locking in a major development deal in San Antonio is an incredible accomplishment," he said. "This is a true testament to our incredible franchisees, and a reflection of our continued commitment to support those in our franchise network and help them continue to grow and build within the brand. Seeing our recent performance, we look forward to seeing mirrored growth in other key Texas markets and across the nation." The restaurant chain achieved 11% same-store sales growth in March 2025. Founded in 2015, Pokeworks offers a range of flavours of Hawaiian poke. With a focus on customisable and healthy options, including vegan and gluten-free, the brand caters to diverse dietary needs and offers convenience for guests on the move. Pokeworks operates 72 locations across 20 US states, Taiwan and Canada. "Pokeworks announces ten-unit deal in San Antonio, Texas" was originally created and published by Verdict Food Service, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Pokeworks Sells Out Houston and Signs 10-Unit Agreement in San Antonio
Leading Premium Poke Franchise's Q1 Same-Store Sales Sparks Multi-Unit Franchise Expansion in Texas IRVINE, Calif., May 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Pokeworks, the fastest-growing fast-casual poke brand globally, is starting Q2 with impressive momentum, achieving same-store sales (SSS) growth of 11% in March*—a sharp contrast to the fast casual segment's average of 0.4% growth, as detailed in the most recent Jefferies report. This strong performance is fueling increased interest from multi-unit operators and has led to the brand finalizing a 10-unit deal in San Antonio and selling out its available Houston territories. With a goal to open ten stores in two years, Agustin Guzman will be developing the greater San Antonio market as well as the Rio Grande Valley. Guzman, a former Olympic swimmer and seasoned entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience across the restaurant, food, retail, logistics, and pharmaceutical industries, currently operates Pokeworks' McAllen location and is in the process of opening his second location in Mission, TX. Guzman moved from Mexico to the U.S. at age 15 to pursue his athletic dreams and has since translated that same ambition into business, partnering with Pokeworks based on his belief in the brand's performance and long-term potential. "I've experienced success across varying industries, but what sets Pokeworks apart is their momentum - it's a high-performing brand that's constantly improving, innovating, and growing," said Guzman. "The brand's alignment with my values, alongside their strong unit economics and continued expansion, makes the decision to expand into San Antonio a clear one." In addition to their upcoming expansion in San Antonio, Pokeworks has officially sold out all available franchise territories in Houston. The city has proven to be a strong market for Pokeworks, with franchisees continuing to expand their portfolio and invest further in the brand. With Texas named the Best State for Business for the 20th year in a row in 2024 by Chief Executive Magazine, Pokeworks' broadening presence in Houston reflects their strategic growth approach and ability to thrive in competitive markets. "Texas has always remained a key market for our growth plans, and selling out its largest city while locking in a major development deal in San Antonio is an incredible accomplishment," said Peter Yang, Co-Founder and Chief Development Officer of Pokeworks. "This is a true testament to our incredible franchisees, and a reflection of our continued commitment to support those in our franchise network and help them continue to grow and build within the brand. Seeing our recent performance, we look forward to seeing mirrored growth in other key Texas markets and across the nation." Further validating its upward trajectory, Pokeworks was recently named to Fast Casual's Top 100 Movers and Shakers list for the sixth year in a row. This annual ranking features the most profitable and fastest-growing brands shaping the fast casual category through innovation, menu evolution, and operational success. Founded in 2015, Pokeworks was born from a group of friends and their love for Hawaiian poke. After experiencing authentic poke, the founders recognized the clear gap on the mainland and set out to bring the fresh flavors of Hawaiian poke by offering customizable, healthy poke bowls, burritos, and salads. Their Poke Your WayⓇ approach lets guests tailor orders to various diets, including vegan and gluten-free, while offering convenient grab-and-go options for guests on the go. For more information on Pokeworks' 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: Amarra Lyons, Franchise Elevator PR, alyons@ View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Pokeworks
Malaysian Reserve
12-05-2025
- Business
- Malaysian Reserve
Pokeworks Levels Up the Sip Game with New Signature Drinks-A Fresh Upgrade Now Pouring Nationwide!
Leading premium poke brand unveils enhanced beverage lineup with brighter flavors and shorter waiting times, powered by Botrista launching May 13 at participating locations IRVINE, Calif., May 12, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Pokeworks, the leading fast-casual poke brand, is rolling out a refreshed lineup of Signature Drinks, starting May 13 at participating locations. In partnership with Botrista, a leader in automated craft drink technology, Pokeworks is introducing a new way to sip–with real fruit, lush milk, and bold, tropical flavor combinations that are ready faster and taste even better! This lineup builds on drinks guests already enjoy. Fresh milk replaces traditional creamer for a smooth yet full-bodied sip, letting tropical fruit flavors shine through. Paired with fun mix-ins such as mango chunks, passionfruit pulp, and boba, of course, the new drinks deliver a cool, craveable upgrade without the wait. What's New Fresh milk replaces traditional creamer for a cleaner, creamier taste Drinks are made with real fruit and vibrant tropical ingredients Boba can be added for $1 Shorter wait times, thanks to Botrista's innovative drink system Meet the Stars of the New Signature Lineup: Mango Fresh Milk – Creamy, tropical mango blended with fresh whole milk Strawberry Fresh Milk – Sweet strawberry swirled into smooth milk Ube Milk Tea – Rich ube meets classic milk tea Jasmine Milk Tea – Elevated floral jasmine tea with a creamy finish POG (Passionfruit, Orange & Guava) – A tropical punch of bright island flavors Strawberry Lemonade – Crisp lemonade infused with ripe strawberry flavor Mango Lychee Lemonade – A citrusy fusion of mango and floral lychee Mango Coconut Fresca – Light and refreshing fresca with mango, coconut, and lime Passion Lychee Green Tea – Fruity and floral green tea with passionfruit and lychee notes Strawberry Guava Fresca – A light and juicy blend of strawberry and guava 'We've always believed that our beverages should live up to the same standard as our bowls,' said Mike Wu, Co-Founder and Head of Culinary at Pokeworks. 'By using more real fruit and fresh milk, we've made our drinks smoother, brighter, and more satisfying overall. One of my personal favorites is the Mango Fresh Milk: it's simple, clean, and really lets the fruit shine.' Loyalty never tasted so sweet—Pokeworks Rewards members can redeem any Signature Drink for just 55 points for a limited time, exclusively through the Pokeworks app, starting May 13 Ready to taste the upgrade? Visit your nearest Pokeworks or order online at For more information, 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. Contact: Raylin Taylor | Franchise Elevator PR | rtaylor@
