Island Fin Poke Company - Franchise Q & A

How was your franchise/opportunity originally conceived and started? 

Island Fin Poke Company was dreamed up 12 years ago. Back then it wasn’t Poke, it was just a dream that Paul and I would do our own thing.  Talk, talk, talk was all it was until Paul who lived in Winter Springs sent me a text in August of 2016. I was in Vegas, the text said he quit his job of 20 years and it was time.

What was your original vision for your company? How has that changed over time? 

What we really wanted out of our concept was something that was super simple, incredibly cool with amazing food and great service. What changed is the fact that at every turn we work to make it better. We are flexible and strive for continued improvement.

What do you believe is the single most important factor when choosing a franchise? 

Choose something you are passionate about. You have to be all in and the only way to do it is with passion.

Why should someone choose your franchise over other similar franchises? 

Several reasons: our food, our service, cost of entry, Paul and I having your best interest at heart.

What makes your industry attractive? 

Globally, fast food generates revenue of over $570 billion. There are over 200,000 fast food restaurants in the United States and it is estimated that 50 million Americans eat at one of them every single day. Consumers of fast food focus on taste, price and quality - in that order. While the food is often highly processed and prepared in an assembly line, these restaurants focus on consistency of experience, affordability, and you guessed it - speed.

What types of qualities do you look for in potential franchisees? 

Honesty, Integrity, personality, a sense of family.

What do your franchise fees and royalties cover? 

The fees cover training, on going support, quarterly store visits, menu development, etc.

Why has your franchise model been successful? 

Simple, low cost of entry, small foot print, incredible food, fast growing segment.

Where do you see your franchise in 5 years and 10 years? 

In every state, international and the most talked about poke concept in the world.

What is your favorite advice for new franchisees to help them succeed? 

Go all in. Commit and just go for it. We will help you to succeed.

What would you tell potential franchisees that may be nervous about the financial burdens of starting a franchise? 

Just be confident in your decision. It cannot be gone into halfway. You will get out of whatever you choose, whatever you put into it.

On average, how long does it take to start a new franchise from the franchisees point of view? 

3 to 6 months.

What was your background and experience before founding this franchise? 

Life long restaurant guys.