Island Poke secures cash injection from Hero Brands, eyes new restaurant openings
It opened four dark kitchens over the past 12 months.
Island Poke is eyeing new restaurant openings after securing a cash injection from hospitality investor Hero Brands.
The Hawaiian poke bowl chain has more than doubled in size over the past year to 17 outlets and plans to use the undisclosed investment to open at least five more sites by the end of 2021. It also opened four “dark kitchens” in the UK over the past year.
Funds will also go towards its plans to expand in France, with plans for a further 40 sites in the country in five years. The investment will also see Hero Brands join the board alongside early investor Chris Miller of White Rabbit Projects and founder James Gould-Porter.
Hero Brands, which operates the global master franchise for German Doner Kebab, plans to use its industry expertise and operational infrastructure to help the food-to-go specialist expand.
The growth strategy will be led by former Jamie Oliver Restaurant Group international executive Nick Schapira.
“We’re so excited to be bringing Hero Brands on board and the experience that they’ll bring to the table. We’ve been working closely together and feel that our businesses are a great fit for each other. We’ve seen what they’ve done with other concepts within their portfolio and look forward to growing together,” Gould-Porter said.
“Island Poke fits with our DNA and is a fantastic concept that is already proving to be a huge hit with consumers across London and France,” added Hero Brands chairman Athif Sarwar. “We are now very much looking forward to working with James and the team to bring our expertise and embark on our ambitions to create a truly global brand.”
Photo credit: Island Poke Facebook
