Restaurant industry professional Andrew Nelson has signed a multi-unit franchise deal to open five Freshii restaurants in Washington, D.C. The fast-casual Freshii is known for its modern, hip vibe and convenient, healthy, and delicious meals and snacks. There are currently 13 units in Chicago and Toronto, several new restaurants currently under construction, and 90 units in varying stages of development in Illinois, Washington, D.C., and Philadelphia.

Nelson plans to open five restaurants in select trade areas in the Washington, D.C. metro area, and he will also be evaluating sites in Montgomery County, Maryland. The franchisee plans to analyze strategic data on prime trade areas, including similar restaurant sales, potential sites, and real estate deal terms. He aims to open his first D.C. area restaurant by early 2010.

After working for a number of fine Washington, D.C. restaurants, most recently, Chef Geoff’s, and owning his own real estate development company, Nelson discovered Freshii and determined the timing was right to pursue his entrepreneurial goals. “Today’s restaurant patrons are seeking fresher, healthier options,” he says. “Freshii’s food quality is excellent and all ingredients are fresh and real with no preservatives.”

Freshii opened its headquarters and first U.S. location in the heart of Chicago across from the Sears Tower. Freshii gained instant buzz from the media and its guests for offering a nutritious and delicious breakfast, lunch, and mid-day snack on the go, without sacrificing taste, health needs or time.