Island Poké signs first two UK franchise partners, further discussions taking place with potential for another 50 sites: Island Poké, the London-based, White Rabbit Group and Hero Brands-backed business, has signed-up its first two UK franchise partners. The new partnerships will bring a development pipeline of 23 sites over the next five years, trebling its current ten-strong UK footprint, alongside the 42 already planned in France and Benelux over the same period. The agreements have been announced following a recent investment from Hero Brands and will create in the region of 350 jobs. The development plans will initially focus on London with the first new outlet to open in Camden Market on Monday, 17 May. However, discussions are also under way with further partners that have the potential for a further 50 sites throughout the UK. Founded by James Porter in 2015, the 17-strong Island Poké initially operated as a street food stall. It secured the backing of White Rabbit Fund in 2016 and went on to open its first bricks and mortar restaurant in Kingly Street, Soho, that year. The brand has since developed a loyal following particularly among office workers looking for lunch alternatives to the mainstream sandwich and similar offerings. The agreement will see them moving into more residential areas, a key focus as working patterns change due to the pandemic. Gould-Porter said: “We’re so excited to be announcing our first two franchise partners for Island Poké. We are just beginning to ease out of the pandemic, which has been a hugely challenging period for the hospitality sector and these latest partnerships show amazing confidence in our brand. Hero Brands has given us key investment and expertise in growing our franchise model and it is also extremely pleasing to secure our first two partners so quickly after they have come on board with us.” Island Poké is leaning on Hero Brand’s industry expertise and operational infrastructure as it sets its sights on becoming the go-to poké brand both domestically and abroad. Hero Brand’s chairman Athif Sarwar said: “Hero Brands is responding to emerging consumer trends and focused on growing the brands of the future. Island Poké fits with our DNA and we are working with James and the team to bring our expertise and embark on our ambitions to create a truly global brand. The first two partnerships are the first steps in this journey and shows the huge potential of the concept and brand as we emerge from the pandemic.”

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