WOWorks, the parent company of good-for-you restaurant brands Saladworks, Frutta Bowls, Garbanzo Mediterranean Fresh, The Simple Greek, Barberitos and Z!Eats, is dedicated to providing flavorful, healthier dining options. With a commitment to exceptional service and healthy living, WOWorks is rapidly expanding across the U.S. and Canada, leveraging innovative strategies like ghost kitchens, food trucks, and grocery retail to drive growth.

Kelly Roddy, the CEO of WOWorks, brings transformative leadership to the company with a proven track record in the restaurant industry. Previously the president of Schlotzsky’s, Kelly successfully repositioned the brand and doubled its sales. After taking the helm of Saladworks in 2019, he guided the brand through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and later became CEO of WOWorks in 2020, helping to accelerate its growth and solidify its place as a leader in the healthy dining sector.

Franchise Chatter (FC): WOWorks has seen impressive growth over the past year. What do you think has been the biggest driver behind this success?  

Kelly Roddy (KR): The fast-casual industry has faced some headwinds this past year, but our team has worked tirelessly to implement initiatives that have led to significant successes. Our commitment to innovation, understanding consumer preferences, and adapting our menu offerings has allowed us to continue growing. We’ve focused on enhancing the customer experience, streamlining operations, and supporting our franchise partners, which has all contributed to our upward trajectory.

FC: You recently rebranded Zoup! to Z!Eats. What inspired this shift, and what kind of response have you seen so far from your customers?  

KR: While Zoup! remains a strong brand name and is the core of our identity, we wanted to highlight our expanded offerings that go beyond just soups. The rebranding to Z!Eats reflects our diverse menu that caters to a variety of tastes and dietary preferences. The response from our customers has been overwhelmingly positive, as they appreciate the fresh, modern look and the opportunity to enjoy a broader selection of wholesome meals.

FC: Barberitos has achieved some notable milestones, including surpassing $1 million in average unit volume. What do you think sets this brand apart in the crowded fast-casual burrito market?  

KR: Barberitos stands out due to our emphasis on high-quality, locally sourced ingredients and a customizable menu that allows guests to create their ideal meal. Our focus on sustainability and community involvement resonates with our customers, fostering brand loyalty. Additionally, our welcoming atmosphere encourages diners to enjoy their meals in a vibrant setting, helping us differentiate ourselves in a competitive landscape. Our engaged and dedicated franchisees also play a crucial role, ensuring exceptional service and a consistently high-quality experience.

FC: As consumer preferences shift towards healthier options, how are WOWorks’ brands adjusting to meet the needs of younger, health-conscious diners?  

KR: At WOWorks, we are continually evolving our menu to incorporate nutritious options that resonate with health-conscious consumers. We’ve expanded our plant-based offerings and prioritize clean, wholesome ingredients. Our team actively engages with customers to understand their preferences, ensuring we align with their values. We believe that providing healthy, delicious meals is essential to meeting the needs of today’s diners.

FC: Clean labeling and transparency in ingredients are becoming increasingly important to consumers. How is WOWorks addressing this demand, especially within its more health-focused brands?  

KR: We are committed to providing clean food for the benefit of our guests. For example, all of our brands use chicken that is never treated with antibiotics. We don’t always get credit for these practices, but we adhere to them because they are the right thing to do for our customers and the environment. Our transparency in ingredient sourcing and labeling builds trust with our customers and aligns with our mission to promote healthier eating habits.

FC: What sort of franchise candidates are you looking for within the platform company?  

KR: We seek franchise candidates who are passionate about health and wellness and have a strong entrepreneurial spirit. While restaurant experience is preferred, it is not necessary as long as candidates possess relevant business experience. The most important factors are shared values, a passion for serving their communities, and a commitment to running a great franchise that aligns with our brand values.

FC: You’ve expanded Saladworks and Frutta Bowls through co-branded locations. How do these partnerships work, and what role do they play in the company’s overall growth strategy?

KR: Co-branding allows us to leverage the strengths of both Saladworks and Frutta Bowls to attract a wider customer base. These partnerships enable us to operate more efficiently by sharing resources, reducing overhead costs, and maximizing foot traffic in high-demand areas. This strategic approach not only supports our growth objectives but also enhances the customer experience by providing diverse menu options in one convenient location.

FC: What trends do you foresee shaping the fast-casual industry in the next few years, and how is WOWorks preparing to stay ahead of those changes?  

KR: We see a trend of consumers becoming more savvy and meticulous about their diets, viewing food as fuel. Many of our guests are increasingly aware of what they put into their bodies, which drives us to enhance our menu options to meet their needs. At WOWorks, we are investing in eco-friendly practices, expanding our plant-based offerings, and embracing technology to improve the customer experience. By staying ahead of these trends, we aim to position our brands as leaders in the industry.

FC: What are some of the most exciting initiatives or plans you’re looking forward to in 2025, and how will they help WOWorks continue to grow?  

KR: In 2025, we plan to focus on modernizing both the Saladworks and Garbanzo brands. This includes the implementation of self-order kiosks to streamline the ordering process and enhance customer convenience. We’re also excited about introducing innovative menu items that cater to emerging health trends and exploring new markets for expansion. These initiatives will help us continue to grow our footprint and strengthen our brand presence in the fast-casual segment.

FC: Frutta Bowls is known for its vibrant and nutritious offerings. Can you share more about the inspiration behind the menu and how it caters to health-conscious consumers?

KR: Frutta Bowls was inspired by the desire to provide delicious, nutrient-rich meals that make healthy eating enjoyable and accessible. Our menu includes a variety of acai bowls, smoothies, and other wholesome options that offer a balance of taste and nutrition. We focus on using fresh, high-quality ingredients that appeal to health-conscious consumers and support their wellness journeys.

FC: With the increasing demand for fresh and wholesome ingredients, how does Frutta Bowls ensure the quality and sourcing of its products?  

KR: Quality is at the heart of Frutta Bowls. We prioritize sourcing organic and locally grown ingredients whenever possible. Our partnerships with trusted suppliers allow us to maintain high standards for freshness and nutrition, ensuring that our customers receive the best possible products. Transparency in our sourcing practices helps build trust with our customers.

FC: The concept of customization is crucial in the fast-casual industry. How does Frutta Bowls allow customers to personalize their bowls, and what are some popular combinations?  

KR: Customization is key at Frutta Bowls. Customers can choose from a variety of bases, toppings, and add-ins to create their perfect bowl. Popular combinations often include our signature acai base topped with granola, fresh fruits, nuts, and superfood add-ins like chia seeds or hemp hearts. This flexibility allows our guests to enjoy their meals exactly how they like them, catering to their individual tastes and dietary preferences.