Established
1994
Franchise Units
3
Minimum Investment
$250,000
Franchise Fee
$30,000
Total Investment Range
$450,000
Home Based
No
Description
Sho Express is a modern fast-casual Asian restaurant franchise that blends authentic Japanese-inspired flavors with the speed, efficiency, and scalability of a contemporary quick-service model. Designed for today’s on-the-go consumer, Sho Express delivers freshly prepared rice bowls, noodles, teriyaki dishes, and Asian fusion favorites in a streamlined, high-volume format that performs well in both urban and suburban markets across the United States.
Positioned at the intersection of quality, affordability, and operational simplicity, Sho Express appeals to a broad customer base including working professionals, families, students, and health-conscious diners seeking bold flavors without long wait times. The brand’s clean menu architecture, efficient kitchen layout, and express-style service model allow franchisees to operate with lower labor requirements while maximizing throughput during peak meal periods.
Why Invest in This Franchise?
Investing in Sho Express means aligning with a restaurant brand that has been purpose-built for efficiency, consistency, and expansion.
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Operates in the high-demand Asian fast-casual and QSR segment
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Streamlined menu designed for speed, quality control, and food cost management
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Express service model supports high daily transaction volume
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Compact footprint suitable for inline retail, food courts, and non-traditional locations
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Strong appeal across diverse demographics and dietary preferences
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Scalable systems ideal for multi-unit ownership and area development
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Lower operational complexity compared to full-service Asian restaurants
Background
Established Year: 1994
Brand Journey & Company History:
Sho Express began as a single-location concept focused on simplifying traditional Japanese and Asian dishes into an express-style format. Early success and positive customer feedback led to menu refinement, operational standardization, and the development of a franchise-ready business model. Over time, the brand expanded through franchising, emphasizing consistency, quality control, and franchisee profitability.
Ownership Structure:
Sho Express operates under a centralized franchisor system, providing brand governance, operational standards, and ongoing support.
Franchise Active Units: 3
Market Presence in the USA:
Sho Express continues to grow its footprint across the United States, targeting high-traffic retail corridors, mixed-use developments, and densely populated suburban communities.
Industry Category:
Asian Quick Service Restaurant (QSR)
Fast-Casual Dining
Japanese and Asian Fusion Cuisine
Support Training
Sho Express offers end-to-end franchise support to ensure smooth launch, consistent operations, and long-term growth.
Pre-Launch Support:
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Site selection assistance and market evaluation
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Store layout planning and kitchen design guidance
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Equipment specifications and vendor coordination
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Lease and build-out support
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Grand opening planning and pre-launch marketing strategy
Training Program:
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Comprehensive operational training for franchisees and managers
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Food preparation, quality assurance, and safety standards
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POS systems, inventory management, and labor scheduling
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Customer service protocols and brand execution
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Financial controls and performance benchmarking
Operational Support:
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Detailed operating manuals and SOPs
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Ongoing field support and performance reviews
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Menu updates and product innovation support
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Cost control and efficiency optimization guidance
Marketing & Brand Support:
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National and regional marketing frameworks
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Local store marketing campaigns and promotions
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Digital marketing and online ordering support
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Creative assets and brand guidelines
Ongoing Support:
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Continuous training and operational updates
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Franchisee collaboration and best-practice sharing
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Data-driven insights to improve store-level performance
Ideal Candidate
Sho Express is ideal for entrepreneurs and investors seeking a structured, scalable restaurant franchise model.
Best Suited For:
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First-time franchise owners looking for a proven system
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Multi-unit restaurant operators expanding their portfolio
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Owner-operators with strong leadership and people management skills
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Semi-absentee or absentee investors with qualified management teams
Key Traits:
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Passion for foodservice and guest experience
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Ability to follow established systems and brand standards
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Strong financial discipline and operational focus
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Willingness to be hands-on during the early stages
Preferred Locations:
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High-traffic shopping centers
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Urban cores and suburban retail hubs
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Food courts, college districts, and mixed-use developments
Financial Detail
| Investment Component | Estimated Amount (USD) |
|---|---|
| Franchise Fee | $30,000 – $40,000 |
| Total Initial Investment | $250,000 – $450,000 |
| Minimum Liquid Capital Required | $100,000+ |
| Net Worth Requirement | $250,000 – $500,000 (approx.) |
| Real Estate & Leasehold Improvements | $90,000 – $180,000 |
| Equipment & Kitchen Setup | $70,000 – $120,000 |
| Furniture, Fixtures & Signage | $25,000 – $50,000 |
| Initial Inventory | $8,000 – $15,000 |
| Grand Opening Marketing | $8,000 – $15,000 |
| Working Capital (3–6 months) | $20,000 – $40,000 |
| Royalty Fee | 5% – 7% of Gross Sales (est.) |
| Marketing / Brand Fund | 1% – 2% of Gross Sales (est.) |
| Expected Break-Even Period | 18 – 30 Months |
| Potential Revenue Streams | Dine-in, Takeout, Delivery, Catering |
