Established
2015
Franchise Units
33
Minimum Investment
$350,000
Franchise Fee
$35,000
Total Investment Range
$750,000
Home Based
No
Description
The Simple Greek is redefining fast-casual Mediterranean dining in the United States by bringing bold Greek flavors, fresh ingredients, and a streamlined service model together under one modern brand. Built around customizable gyros, bowls, salads, and pita wraps, the concept offers guests an authentic yet approachable experience rooted in traditional Greek recipes and contemporary fast-casual efficiency.
In a market where consumers increasingly prioritize healthy, fresh, and flavorful food, The Simple Greek stands out with its vibrant Mediterranean menu, transparent ingredient sourcing, and customizable ordering system. Guests can build their meals with high-quality proteins, crisp vegetables, signature sauces, and house-made sides—all prepared with speed and consistency.
Positioned in the growing Mediterranean and fast-casual dining segment, The Simple Greek franchise combines strong brand recognition, operational simplicity, and scalable growth potential. With a streamlined kitchen design and manageable footprint, the concept appeals to both first-time franchise investors and experienced multi-unit operators seeking a brand with proven demand and broad demographic appeal.
Background
Established Year: 2015
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Founder: Marcus Lemonis
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Industry Category: Fast-Casual Mediterranean Restaurant
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Franchise Active Units: 33
The Simple Greek was founded in 2015 with the goal of delivering authentic Greek flavors in a fast-casual setting. The brand quickly gained national recognition following its appearance on Shark Tank, where investor Marcus Lemonis became involved in supporting its development and growth strategy.
From its early beginnings, the company focused on standardizing recipes, building a recognizable brand identity, and refining operational systems to support franchising. As Mediterranean cuisine gained traction in the U.S. restaurant industry, The Simple Greek capitalized on this demand with a clean, modern restaurant design and a simplified build-your-own menu format.
Today, the brand operates in multiple U.S. markets, serving as a competitive player within the fast-casual restaurant sector. Its combination of recognizable Greek flavors, consistent systems, and franchise-ready infrastructure positions it for continued expansion.
Support Training
The Simple Greek offers comprehensive franchise support designed to guide owners from pre-launch through long-term operations.
Pre-Launch Support
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Site selection guidance and demographic analysis
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Lease negotiation assistance
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Store layout and design consultation
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Equipment sourcing recommendations
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Construction oversight guidance
Initial Training
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In-depth operational training covering food preparation, inventory control, and customer service
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POS system training
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Hiring and team development support
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Food safety and compliance education
Training typically includes both classroom-style instruction and in-store, hands-on experience.
Marketing Support
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Grand opening marketing campaigns
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Brand-approved creative assets
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Social media strategy guidance
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Ongoing promotional calendars
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Digital marketing recommendations
Operational & Ongoing Support
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Field support visits
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Performance benchmarking
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Supply chain coordination
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Menu innovation updates
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Ongoing franchisee communication and training refreshers
The brand emphasizes consistency and brand integrity, ensuring franchisees receive structured systems to streamline daily operations and maximize profitability.
Ideal Candidate
The Simple Greek franchise is well-suited for:
Entrepreneurs with Hospitality or Business Experience
Prior restaurant experience is helpful but not mandatory. Strong leadership and management skills are more important.
Multi-Unit Operators Seeking Expansion
Experienced franchise operators looking to diversify into the Mediterranean segment may find this concept attractive due to its scalable model.
Community-Focused Business Owners
Owners who enjoy engaging with their local communities and building repeat customer relationships often perform well in this concept.
Financially Prepared Investors
Candidates should have sufficient capital to cover build-out, equipment, working capital, and operating reserves.
Preferred Locations
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High-traffic retail corridors
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Suburban shopping centers
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University districts
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Urban business districts
Successful franchisees are hands-on, customer-focused, and committed to maintaining food quality and service standards.
Financial Detail
| Investment Category | Estimated Amount (USD) |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $35,000 |
| Total Estimated Investment | $350,000 – $750,000 |
| Minimum Investment Required | ~$350,000 |
| Leasehold Improvements / Build-Out | $150,000 – $350,000 |
| Furniture, Fixtures & Equipment (FF&E) | $80,000 – $150,000 |
| POS System & Technology | $10,000 – $25,000 |
| Initial Inventory & Supplies | $15,000 – $30,000 |
| Pre-Opening Marketing | $10,000 – $25,000 |
| Training Expenses | $5,000 – $15,000 |
| Working Capital (3–6 Months) | $40,000 – $100,000 |
| Royalty Fee | ~6% of Gross Sales |
| National Marketing Fund | ~2% of Gross Sales |
