Operations

WaBa Grill's Q2 same-store sales up 2%

Provided

September 7, 2022

WaBa Grill has reported that its Q2 same-store sales rose to $43.7 million — up 2.2% from the previous year.

Second quarter total system sales reached $45.1 million — an increase of 4.3% compared to the same prior-year period, and the chain is tracking toward a third consecutive year of record growth after signing a 20-unit Northern California development deal, according to a press release.

"The record-breaking success WaBa Grill experienced last year was phenomenal, and we're grateful to our dedicated franchise partners and corporate team who have helped us carry this tremendous momentum through the first half of 2022," Andrew Kim, president and CEO, said in the release. "As we pass the midyear mark and reflect on the year's accomplishments through the first half of 2022, I am honored to be part of this organization, which includes a motivated and inspiring network of franchisees and corporate employees that are committed to demonstrating to new and existing guests the multifaceted appeal of the WaBa Grill brand."

Many initiatives contributed to WaBa Grill's Q2 success, including the WaBa Text Club, which debuted in the beginning of the year, Kim said. In Q2, it also onboarded Caviar as a third-party delivery service partner to further expand the brand's digital reach for new and existing customers. Digital sales, which include online orders, third-party delivery and the WaBa Rewards App, remain consistent and have accounted for nearly 25% of sales for the past 12 months.

"Even as we near our 200-restaurant milestone, we remain committed to growth — and to ensuring WaBa Grill is consistently a go-to destination for fresh and healthy cuisine in existing and new markets," Vivian Mendoza, director of marketing, said in the release. "This goal continues to be driven by evolving the WaBa Grill brand and will always be underpinned by our mission to provide customers with a quality and nutritious dining experience that is accessible to all."

The nearly 200-unit brand is seeking franchise partners to help expand.