In a world of processed, fatty, and unhealthy food, Fresh–Healthy Café is a sigh of relief, offering all natural, antibiotic-free meals with several vegetarian options. Now, Jersey City, New Jersey–area residents are able to experience Fresh for themselves with the opening of a new location at 77 Hudson Street.
The Fresh franchise is owned by Aditi Gupta, who after working in the luxury retail industry for a number of years, decided to leave the corporate life and pursue her dream of bringing a healthy dining choice to her hometown of Jersey City. Gupta and her husband—both self-proclaimed foodies—have been living in Jersey City for more than 10 years and always felt there was a lack of healthy food options, especially when compared to New York City where they worked.
Fresh is constantly searching the world for the healthiest and highest quality ingredients for its menu. And, all food and drinks are served in eco-friendly containers and cups so customers can feel great about the food and supporting a company that is committed to preserving the environment. The entire Fresh menu is available for takeout with convenient phone and online ordering options.
Running a business isn't new to Gupta, who supported her father's business in India prior to coming to the United States in 2007. To help finance the franchise purchase, she tapped small business financing company Guidant Financial to help leverage her existing retirement funds using a process known as rollovers for business start-ups (ROBS). This funding vehicle allowed her to purchase the business without incurring any tax penalties or taking on additional debt.
"The best part is when I meet a satisfied customer who likes the food and is excited that we opened," Gupta says. "Many times, customers have come back saying that this is the best sandwich or smoothie they have ever had. The community has been incredibly receptive, and the professionalism, responsiveness, and expertise of the Guidant Financial team was an enormous help in bringing my business dream to reality."