News

‘Artisan fast’ pizza and salad concept plans franchise expansion

October 30, 2014

St. Louis-based Crushed Red Urban Bake and Chop Shop, which recently introduced its "Artisan Fast” concept to franchisees, will open six new restaurants within the next four and a half years in the Denver and Boulder, Colorado, areas, through a partnership with JAM Mgmt.

Crushed Red plans to expand into additional markets throughout 2015 and 2016.

"Our concept highlights made-to-order chopped salads and whole grain pizzas that appeal to both the heath-conscious and to those who just want a delicious meal that's quickly prepared,” Founder Chris LaRocca said in a news release.

Crushed Red is also set to open three new company-owned stores in 2015 in the St. Louis area and has attracted the interest of international investors looking to franchise the brand in the Middle East, the release said.

The concept allows guests to create their own organic chopped salads and individual toppings, or choose all-natural soups or "sharables,” or appetizers. The pizzas are delivered to guests' tables in about 5 minutes.

Additionally, the company's restaurants are 100-percent sustainable with certification from the Green Dining Alliance, the release said.