WOWorks, the parent company of health-conscious restaurant brands, has unveiled plans for a four-unit development agreement to extend the presence of Frutta Bowls in the Memphis, Tennessee, market.

This move marks a significant step in the brand's expansion strategy across the Sunbelt region.

The new franchisees, Akash Chaudhari, Sanjay Chaudhari, and Brijesh Patel, bring a considerable experience to the table, having owned and managed multiple businesses in hospitality, foodservice, and retail sectors.

Their current operations include Super 8 motels, liquor stores, and Subway franchises across Tennessee, Missouri, and Wyoming.

The trio conducted market research over several months, including site visits to existing Frutta Bowls locations, interviews with third-party delivery personnel, and surveys among employees at local hospitals and businesses.

Their findings have informed the decision to open the first Frutta Bowls outlet in either Germantown or Cordova, with subsequent stores planned for Memphis and northern Mississippi communities such as Olive Branch and Southaven.

Additionally, the partners are exploring co-branding opportunities with Saladworks, another brand under the WOWorks umbrella.

WOWorks CEO Kelly Roddy said: "This agreement is an exciting milestone for Frutta Bowls and our rapid expansion for this brand right now.

"Frutta Bowls is seeing incredible momentum, and this team's thorough research and community-driven mindset make them an ideal fit to lead our expansion in the Mid-South."

The Frutta Bowls menu features a variety of superfoods, including acai, pitaya, kale, and an array of grains, fruits, vegetables, and nuts. These customisable options aim to bolster immunity and provide wholesome meals and snacks.

Akash Chaudhari said: "When the hotel industry slowed during Covid, we realised the need to diversify.

"After months of research, Frutta Bowls stood out as the perfect match for the Memphis market. For consumers, it's healthy and quick. And from a business standpoint, we like that the brand has low overhead, and this concept is fresh and exciting to the market."