Franchising

Aloha Poke says hello to Atlanta

Provided

May 5, 2022

Aloha Poke Co., a fast-casual poke restaurant concept, has come to Atlanta, according to a company press release.

The brand's newest restaurant is the first in Georgia and is owned and operated by local entrepreneur and franchise veteran Randy Elias. The restaurant is located at 3348 Cobb Parkway in Acworth.
Aloha Poke Co. plans to open locations throughout the Atlanta metropolitan area. The Georgia opening follows growth in Texas and other states. The brand's concept revolves around offering fast, fresh-packed sashimi-grade seafood along with other unprocessed, natural ingredients.

"Aloha Poke Co. is thrilled to open in Georgia," Chris Birkinshaw, CEO, Aloha Poke Co., said in the release. "We are happy that the people of Atlanta and surrounding communities now have access to healthier fast casual food options while staying on-the-go with busy lives. At a time of continued awareness around the quality and healthfulness of fast-casual menus, our poke bowls are made from delicious, nutritious and natural ingredients."

Elias joins the brand with more than 20 years in fast-casual franchising. Elias' portfolio includes several Moe's Southwest Grills in the Acworth and Cartersville communities along with other fast casual ventures. Elias sought out Aloha Poke Co. franchising to simplify his franchise portfolio and was attracted to the brand's franchise development program, the projected return on investment, the efficiency of operations and low labor requirements.

"We are thrilled to welcome our first guests into Atlanta's first Aloha Poke Co. restaurant," Elias said in the release. "I have seen many different franchise concepts that require complex back-of-house build outs and cooking staff. Most are now experiencing the strain caused by current labor issues, economic turmoil, and supply chain challenges. Aloha Poke Co.'s brand development strategy and buildout require much less to start and maintain, while still offering an attractive return on investment year-over-year."

Founded in 2016 and based in Chicago, Aloha Poke Co. operates 19 locations in Illinois, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Texas, Florida, Georgia and Washington, D.C.