Friska, the healthy fast food group started by two University of Bath graduates, has signed its first franchising deal – a move that is enabling it to open its ninth outlet.
The new site, due to open in June in the newly-refurbished Luton Airport departure lounge, will be the biggest Friska yet with more than 85 covers.
The fast-growing firm aims it to be the first in a string of outlets in transport hubs in partnership with Delaware North, the US-based global food service and hospitality giant.
Friska was launched in 2009 by Griff Holland and Ed Brown, who met while studying economics at the University of Bath.
Griff had the idea for Friska in 2003 after a family holiday in the US where he had eaten healthy fast food. But it was not until he met Ed that the business took shape.
They opened its first cafe in Bristol’s Victoria Street and second at the Bristol and Bath Science Park and have since built a strong reputation for their globally-inspired fresh fast food and speciality coffee.
Ed said: “We’re really excited to collaborate with Delaware North on what will hopefully be the first of many deals in transport hubs. They are world-leading and we are confident that they are the right partner for Friska’s next phase of expansion.”
Delaware North business development & marketing director Simon Harrington, added: “We have loved the Friska offer since we first met Ed & Griff and we are extremely excited about opening the London Luton airport store, hopefully the first of many in UK airports.”
Luton Airport commercial director Rupert Lawrie added: “The development currently underway at the airport isn’t just about transforming the terminal and transport links; it’s about transforming the experience for passengers and that includes ensuring there are food and drink options to suit all tastes. Friska is an incredibly exciting addition to that mix.”
Friska now employs more than 90 people across its stores in Bristol and Birmingham, with plans to expand to Manchester, Edinburgh, Cardiff and Reading by the end of next year.
Pictured: Friska co-founders Griff Holland and Ed Brown
