Westchester County is getting a fresh take on food. fresh&co—the healthy fast-casual franchise recognized by New Yorkers for its chef-inspired, locally sourced and seasonal menu—will establish its very first franchise location in Westchester County.
After growing to 18 corporate locations, fresh&co launched its franchising opportunity this past October and has since signed its first franchise development deal securing three restaurants. The first franchisee-owned restaurant is slated to open in early 2019 in Westchester County and will be owned and operated by Dan Unter.
“I’m excited to bring fresh&co to the Westchester community. The brand is focused on serving meals made from all-natural ingredients that are harvested locally, while teaching guests about the best produce each season,” says Unter. “The restaurant fosters a pleasant experience where guests can choose from a rotating daily menu, have the ability to personally customize their order and can enjoy a freshly-made meal at an affordable price. I’m confident in serving fresh&co’s menu because the food is flavorful, nutritious, and affordable—what more could you want?”
Prior to joining the fresh&co franchise, Unter began his restaurant experience at 16 years old working in the back of the kitchen. Slowly he found his way to the front of the house in management positions as he worked while pursuing his college education. Even as he pursued a law degree, Unter remained active in the restaurant industry managing a café at a country club. After graduation he found himself in the world of corporate and media law as a music attorney in San Francisco, Silicon Valley, and Los Angeles for several years. Eventually, Unter found his way back to the restaurant industry and is the owner of a successful local deli. Now, he plans to use his knowledge of business and industry experience to successfully expand fresh&co, introduce the Westchester community to the brand, and become a pillar of support for future franchisees.
“I have a passion for food, and love working in the industry—that’s why I kept working even throughout law school,” Unter said. “I knew that coming back to the restaurant industry I wanted to own my own restaurant; one that provides high-quality service, a flavorful menu, inspires healthy habits, but most of all, food that I would feel comfortable serving to my own kids. fresh&co checked every box for the ideal restaurant that I want to own.”
fresh&co’s chef-inspired menu uses seasonal, local and organic ingredients from carefully chosen suppliers and growers to create flavorful meals that accommodate an array of dietary choices and needs. Staying true to its Just made. Just for You. slogan, the brand has collaborated with both chefs and nutritionists to design a natural, healthy, and delicious menu that offers options for carnivores, vegetarians, vegans and those with gluten intolerances. From salads and quinoa bowls to homemade soups, fresh-made sandwiches and cold-pressed juices, fresh&co is the go-to spot for hungry guests and on-the-go professionals who want a healthy meal – fast.
In addition to partnering with local suppliers, fresh&co acquired its own farm in Orient, New York where they supply fruits and vegetables directly to their New York City restaurants to provide consumers the ultimate from-farm-to-desk® experience.
fresh&co uses only vegetarian-fed, hormone-free poultry and meats, along with non-GMO, natural, and wherever possible, organic ingredients. The restaurants serve three meals a day, along with snacks and juices too, for round-the-clock visits.
“We are excited to bring Dan into the fresh&co family. Our team has over 25 years of combined restaurant experience and has built a successful business operation. Our philosophy on food and community-focused business align with his,” adds Tenedios. “The future looks bright for fresh&co and we’re confident that Dan’s experience as a lawyer and restaurant owner will help him to become successful fresh&co restaurant owner.”
To augment the company’s growth, fresh&co is seeking franchisee partners who have a passion for food, have strong business acumen and share the brand’s vision. Including a franchise fee of $45,000, the estimated initial investment to open a fresh&co franchise is between $633,000 and $1,503,500 in NYC. Each location typically occupies approximately 1,200-2,000 square feet of retail space and presents franchisees with multiple revenue streams (breakfast, lunch, dinner and catering).