- New program reduces franchise fees and royalties for operators committing to one or more locations
- Qualifying 6+ unit developers can receive a net $0 franchise fee on first three locations
- Franchisees can add a second co-branded concept for no additional franchise fee
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla., Sept. 10, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — WOWorks, the parent company of better-for-you restaurant brands Saladworks, Frutta Bowls, Garbanzo Mediterranean Fresh, The Simple Greek, Barberitos and Zoup! Eatery, has launched a new three-tier franchise incentive program designed to make development more accessible for independent entrepreneurs while rewarding experienced multi-unit operators prepared to grow at scale.
Available for a limited time through the first quarter of 2027, the program adjusts franchise fees and royalties based on the number of locations an operator commits to develop – ranging from six months of reduced royalties for one- and two-unit owners to a net $0 franchise fee on an operator’s first three locations for those committing to six or more restaurants.
Incentives Scale with Operators’ Development Commitments
The three franchise incentive tiers include:
- Small Owners: One to Two Locations: Franchisees pay half of the standard franchise fee at signing and receive a 50% reduction in royalty fees for the first six months after opening.
- Medium Owners: Three to Five Locations: Franchisees pay half of the standard franchise fee at signing and receive a 50% reduction in royalty fees for the first year after opening. Operators may mix and match participating WOWorks brands within their development agreement.
- Large Owners: Six or More Locations: Franchisees pay half of the standard franchise fee at signing, which is refunded for their first three locations, resulting in a net $0 franchise fee for those restaurants. They also receive a 50% reduction in royalty fees for the first year across all locations and may mix and match participating WOWorks brands.
“Restaurant development is not one-size-fits-all, and our incentive program reflects the different ways entrepreneurs want to grow,” said Kelly Roddy, CEO of WOWorks. “Whether someone is opening their first restaurant or expanding an established multi-unit portfolio, we are creating a more flexible path into the WOWorks system. For larger operators, the ability to mix and match brands and earn back the franchise fees on their first three locations makes this an especially compelling opportunity to build a diversified restaurant portfolio.”
Co-Branding Program Expands the Opportunity Under One Roof
In addition to the tiered incentives, franchisees at every development level can participate in WOWorks’ new “Buy One, Get Two” co-branding program. Through the program, an operator can add a second participating WOWorks concept to the same location without paying an additional franchise fee.
The co-branding opportunity gives franchisees the ability to serve complementary menus from a shared restaurant footprint, helping operators appeal to a broader range of guest preferences while leveraging the same real estate and operational infrastructure. A franchisee could, for example, bring two WOWorks concepts together within one location for the franchise fee of one brand.
“Co-branding is one of the most distinct advantages of the WOWorks platform,” said James Walker, Chief Growth Officer of WOWorks. “Instead of asking franchisees to invest in an entirely separate location to diversify their offering, we can help them bring two complementary concepts together under one roof. This program lowers a key barrier to entry and gives operators more flexibility in how they approach their markets.”
WOWorks’ portfolio spans several fast-casual categories, including salads, smoothies and açaí bowls, burritos, soups and Mediterranean cuisine. The ability to mix brands within multi-unit agreements allows franchisees to select concepts based on individual market opportunities while working with one parent company and shared support platform.
The incentive program is available for a limited time through the first quarter of 2027. All incentives are contingent upon franchisees meeting the development schedule outlined in their agreements and are subject to change.
Franchise Growth Opportunities
WOWorks is actively seeking experienced franchisees to join its better-for-you family of brands expanding portfolio. The platform has close to 240 restaurants operating nationwide, continues to lead the industry in innovation and growth opportunities for its franchisees, while ensuring that customers enjoy delicious and wholesome meals. For more information about franchise opportunities with WOWorks brands, visit woworksusa.com/a-place-to-invest/.
About WOWorks
Founded in 2020, WOWorks is dedicated to helping guests pursue their passions and enjoy their best lives through flavorful, healthier meals and exceptional service. A subsidiary of Centre Lane Partners, LLC, WOWorks’ portfolio includes Saladworks, Barberitos, Frutta Bowls, Garbanzo Mediterranean Fresh, Zoup! Eatery and The Simple Greek. WOWorks aims to drive consistent growth across its brands by partnering with experienced franchisees who share its passion for excellence and nutritious dining. For more information, visit woworksusa.com.
Media Contact: Taylor Hefferan, Fishman Public Relations, thefferan@fishmanpr.com or (847) 945-1300
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SOURCE WOWorks
