Operations

Waba Grill reports highest sales in company history

Provided

August 24, 2021

Sales are soaring at WaBa Grill, a healthy rice bowl chain based in Southern California. In fact, Q2 2021 was the top-performing sales quarter in the brand's 15-year history, with same-store sales up 39.2% over Q2 2020, President and CEO Andrew Kim said in a company press release.

Additionally, the brand's Q2 SSS represented a 28.7% leap over the same pre-pandemic period for 2019, illustrating momentum as the first half of 2021 concluded.

"As we recognize our record-breaking Q2 sales, we salute our outstanding and hard-working franchisees who continue to care deeply for their guests and the communities where they conduct business," Kim said. "The demand for healthy fast casual continues to flourish, and I'm confident in our lasting ability to thrive in a marketplace driven by quality ingredients, healthy menu options and bold flavors — a trio of consumer demands that are hallmarks of WaBa Grill."

WaBa Grill's total store sales also impressed in Q2, eclipsing the previous company record for any quarter by more than $4.5 million. Even more, for the first time in company history, total quarterly sales exceeded $40 million. Strong digital sales, which continue to improve, represent nearly 25% of total sales. Also, its low-cost delivery channel continues to thrive, fueled by impressive guest feedback scores that demonstrate customer awareness and appreciation for WaBa Grill's internal delivery offering versus its competitors, Kim said.

Record-setting results weren't the only exciting news in Q2. In May, WaBa launched a plant-based protein option in collaboration with Nasoya Foods USA. WaBa Grill's Plantspired Steak, a Korean-inspired alternative to steak, marks the first time Nasoya had teamed with a large restaurant chain.

"Tremendous momentum and excitement abound as we enter the second half of 2021, and it has been inspiring to see the sales growth and success our franchisees have experienced over the past few years despite global headwinds," CMO Mark Finnegan said in the release. "Especially during our 15th anniversary year, we have so much to celebrate at Waba Grill. As we continue to expand throughout California and beyond with the support of new and existing franchise partners, our brand is absolutely firing on all cylinders."

The nearly 200-unit brand is primed to continue expansion having identified key markets throughout the western U.S. and is seeking franchise partners, according to the release.