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Giardino Gourmet Salads Opportunity

USA & CAN

Established

2004

Franchise Units

20

dollar

Minimum Investment

$250,000

dollar

Franchise Fee

$35,000

dollar

Total Investment Range

$400,000

Home Based

No

Description

Giardino Gourmet Salads is redefining healthy dining in America’s fast-casual restaurant industry. Known for its chef-inspired salads, wraps, and grain bowls, Giardino Gourmet Salads has become a trusted name among health-conscious customers seeking flavorful, nutritious, and customizable meals. Founded on the principles of freshness, authenticity, and community, this brand has built a strong reputation for its commitment to wholesome ingredients and farm-to-table dining experiences.

With a proven concept and a passionate following, Giardino Gourmet Salads continues to expand across the United States, offering entrepreneurs an opportunity to be part of a growing wellness movement in the foodservice sector. Positioned within the booming fast-casual restaurant market, the brand combines the profitability of a scalable model with the satisfaction of promoting a healthy lifestyle.

Each location embodies a modern, welcoming ambiance where guests enjoy handcrafted salads, wraps, soups, and healthy snacks made daily from scratch. Giardino Gourmet Salads isn’t just about serving food — it’s about cultivating community, freshness, and wellness.

Why Invest in This Franchise?

Investing in a Giardino Gourmet Salads franchise offers a compelling opportunity for entrepreneurs who want to tap into one of the fastest-growing segments of the restaurant industry — healthy, fast-casual dining. As consumer demand for nutritious, convenient food options continues to rise, Giardino’s proven business model and strong brand identity provide a competitive edge.

Top Reasons to Invest:

  • High Market Demand: The U.S. health-conscious dining segment is valued at billions, and Giardino sits perfectly at the intersection of taste and wellness.

  • Proven Concept: Decades of operational experience, consistent quality, and strong customer loyalty.

  • Flexible Footprint: Locations can adapt to various spaces — from high-traffic urban centers to suburban shopping plazas.

  • Brand Recognition: Giardino Gourmet Salads is recognized for its commitment to freshness, sustainability, and authentic flavors.

  • Community-Driven Values: The franchise encourages local engagement, charity involvement, and partnerships with regional produce suppliers.


Background

Giardino Gourmet Salads was founded in 2004 in Miami, Florida, by Kenneth and Ody Lugo with a mission to make healthy eating accessible, affordable, and enjoyable. Starting as a small local salad bar, the brand quickly gained popularity among urban professionals and families seeking better meal choices.

Over the years, the company has expanded into a thriving franchise system with over 20 locations across the United States, primarily concentrated in Florida and other southeastern markets. The brand operates in the fast-casual healthy dining industry, a sector that continues to experience double-digit growth annually.

Giardino Gourmet Salads’ journey has been guided by a passion for wholesome, handcrafted food and an unwavering focus on quality and customer satisfaction. Today, the franchise is known for its innovative menu, customizable offerings, and dedication to community values. The company’s ownership team continues to innovate through menu development, sustainability initiatives, and marketing strategies that strengthen its position as a leader in healthy dining.


Support Training

Giardino Gourmet Salads provides comprehensive training and ongoing support designed to help franchise owners thrive from day one. The brand’s franchise development team ensures every new owner is confident, well-trained, and prepared to deliver the high-quality experience customers expect.

Pre-Launch Support:

  • Site Selection Assistance: Expert guidance in choosing the right location based on demographics, traffic, and visibility.

  • Restaurant Design & Build-Out: Support with layout, branding, and construction standards to ensure consistency and efficiency.

  • Initial Training Program: In-depth, hands-on training covering operations, food preparation, customer service, and leadership.

Operational Support:

  • Comprehensive Operations Manual: Detailed documentation to guide daily business processes.

  • Vendor Partnerships: Access to preferred suppliers and negotiated pricing for fresh ingredients and essential inventory.

  • Technology Systems: POS systems, online ordering integration, and delivery partnerships for optimized operations.

Marketing & Growth Support:

  • Grand Opening Marketing Campaign: Brand team helps with local PR, social media campaigns, and community launch events.

  • Ongoing Marketing Assistance: Continuous digital and print marketing guidance, seasonal promotions, and brand campaigns.

  • Business Development Coaching: Regular consultations to help franchisees boost revenue, manage teams, and increase profitability.

This all-inclusive support ensures franchisees have the resources and expertise to operate efficiently and maintain the brand’s high standards.


Ideal Candidate

Giardino Gourmet Salads seeks passionate entrepreneurs who value health, hospitality, and community engagement. The ideal franchisee is someone who embraces the brand’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, and who wants to make a positive impact through food.

Ideal Candidate Traits:

  • Entrepreneurial spirit and desire to grow a local business.

  • Strong leadership and management abilities.

  • Prior experience in foodservice, retail, or customer service (preferred but not mandatory).

  • Passion for health, wellness, and sustainability.

  • Willingness to follow a proven franchise system and uphold brand standards.

Investment Capability & Location Preference:
Franchisees should have the financial capacity to invest in restaurant development and initial operations. Ideal territories include urban areas, college towns, business districts, and suburban communities with strong health-conscious demographics.


Financial Detail

Financial CategoryEstimated Cost (USD)
Total Investment Required$250,000 – $400,000
Minimum Liquid Capital$100,000 – $150,000
Franchise Fee$35,000
Royalty Fee6% of gross sales
Marketing/Advertising Fee2% of gross sales
Working Capital$20,000 – $40,000
Build-Out & Infrastructure$120,000 – $200,000
Initial Inventory & Supplies$10,000 – $20,000
Expected ROI18% – 25% annually (estimated)
Break-Even Period18 – 30 months
Current Franchise Units20+ locations
Revenue StreamsDine-in, takeout, catering, online orders, and delivery services



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