The Salad House Seeks Regional Expansion

The Salad House, a New Jersey-based fast casual restaurant concept, has launched an effort to expand its franchise presence in the New York metropolitan area and surrounding markets as the region begins to reopen from the months-long COVID-19 lockdown.

The nine-year-old restaurant concept, which began franchising in 2017, is looking to expand its presence in the New York and New Jersey areas with additional locations in nearby states, as its healthy, customizable salad creations are poised to find new customers at a time when the industry is competing for customer loyalty, and mobile ordering and takeout continue to drive much of the business.

"The Salad House's fast casual business model is already positioned to offer predominantly pickup and delivery as the dine-in restaurant landscape changes," Jerry Eicke, director of franchise development, said via email. "In addition, a demand for healthy food for families [as] opposed to individuals has driven revenue growth across our stores."

The company is looking to expand in the Long Island area, east of New York City and in other suburban markets.

"The brand believes there is a niche in the suburban marketplace for the fast casual healthy food (primarily salads) as people who are leaving the cities and moving to the suburbs will be expecting the variety of food options they are used to in an urban environment," he added.

The company is currently looking for multi-unit franchisees and said the initial investment needed to open a location is $269,200 to $454,500. Those figures include an initial franchise fee of $40,000.

The Salad House currently has four New Jersey locations, in Somerville, Morristown, Millburn and Westfield.