Co-Branded Locations, Cross-Border Expansion and Non-Traditional Growth Power New Units for Saladworks, Frutta Bowls, Garbanzo Mediterranean Fresh and Barberitos

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla., Sept. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- WOWorks, the parent company of better-for-you restaurant brands Saladworks, Frutta Bowls, Garbanzo Mediterranean Fresh, The Simple Greek, Barberitos and Zoup! Eatery, today announced it has opened 23 new restaurants so far this year, with 15 additional locations currently in development. This brings WOWorks' total footprint to nearly 240 restaurants nationwide and puts the company on pace for nearly 40 new stores by year's end, fueled largely by surging consumer demand for fresh, customizable, better-for-you dining.

Nationwide Franchise Expansion

New restaurants have launched across the Midwest, Mid-Atlantic and Southeast – including Ohio, Missouri, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Florida, Alabama, Virginia, Georgia and Texas – as well as WOWorks' first expansion into Canada, with a new Frutta Bowls location in Cambridge, Ontario. Growth spans traditional retail footprints as well as high-traffic non-traditional venues, including university campuses at the University of Georgia's Tate Student Center and the University of Notre Dame, as well as a healthcare facility debut at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center.

"Consumers today want food that fits their life: fresh, customizable and genuinely good for them," said Kelly Roddy, CEO of WOWorks. "That's exactly what WOWorks was built for, and it's why our brands are resonating with guests from coast to coast as we open new doors nearly every week in a multitude of venues."

Co-Branding Fuels Efficient, High-Impact Growth

Co-branded restaurants account for nearly half of the openings year-to-date. Pairings such as Saladworks and Frutta Bowls and Barberitos and Garbanzo Mediterranean Fresh, allow WOWorks and its franchisees to serve more craveable, complementary menus under one roof, maximizing real estate efficiency and giving guests more reasons to visit. Several existing single-brand restaurants have also added Frutta Bowls as a second brand this year, a conversion strategy designed to drive incremental revenue from proven locations.

"We're excited to see so many of our franchisees continue to expand within the WOWorks platform," added Roddy. "They are doubling down on brands they already know deliver results and picking up new brands that fit within spaces they already are operating."

Riding the Wave of Healthy, Customizable Dining

WOWorks' expansion arrives as consumer demand for healthy, customizable dining reaches an all-time high. Guests increasingly want food that fits their lifestyle and dietary restrictions, such as build-your-own bowls, fresh produce and healthy options without sacrificing convenience. WOWorks' portfolio is built for this shift: Saladworks and Frutta Bowls offer fully customizable, made-to-order salads and bowls; Garbanzo Mediterranean Fresh brings fresh, wholesome Mediterranean flavors to the category; and Barberitos rounds out the lineup with customizable fast-casual Mexican favorites.

Franchise Growth Opportunities

WOWorks is actively seeking experienced franchisees to join its better-for-you family of brands expanding portfolio. The platform has close to 240 restaurants operating nationwide, continues to lead the industry in innovation and growth opportunities for its franchisees, while ensuring that customers enjoy delicious and wholesome meals. For more information about franchise opportunities with WOWorks brands, visit woworksusa.com/a-place-to-invest/.

About WOWorks
Founded in 2020, WOWorks is dedicated to helping guests pursue their passions and enjoy their best lives through flavorful, healthier meals and exceptional service. A subsidiary of Centre Lane Partners, LLC, WOWorks' portfolio includes Saladworks, Barberitos, Frutta Bowls, Garbanzo Mediterranean Fresh, Zoup! Eatery and The Simple Greek. WOWorks aims to drive consistent growth across its brands by partnering with experienced franchisees who share its passion for excellence and nutritious dining. For more information, visit woworksusa.com.

Media Contact: Sara Faiwell, Fishman Public Relations, sfaiwell@fishmanpr.com or (847) 945-1300

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SOURCE WOWorks