The Nutritious, Globally Inspired Dining Concept Feeds Growing Consumer Demand
Currito, a healthy fast-casual franchise, has announced nine new development deals that will bring its globally inspired dining concept to 16 new restaurant locations in its rapid expansion across the U.S. With 23 stores already open and operating across seven states, the 16 new units represent a significant milestone in Currito’s strategic development as the brand plans to open as many as nine new locations by the end of 2025.
Founded in 2005 by restaurateur brothers Joe and John Lanni, Currito’s goal is “to serve food that fuels communities” with a menu that emphasizes fresh, nutritious and delicious ingredients. The brand’s early success resulted from organic growth as consumers increasingly sought healthy fast-casual dining options. Currito now is making significant investments to drive deliberate and strategic expansion, more than doubling the number of locations just since 2011.
The nine new development deals include new locations in Tennessee, with one scheduled to open in February in Nashville; Kentucky; Illinois; Indiana, with one to open in February in Indianapolis; and Ohio, where one is scheduled to open in the first quarter of 2025 in Maineville. Currito currently has locations open and operating in Ohio, Massachusetts, Florida, Illinois, Maryland, Kentucky and Pennsylvania.
“These new locations are a tremendous step forward in Currito’s expansion journey,” Joe Lanni says. “Our goal is to bring healthy, creative takes on cuisines from around the world to more communities, and it’s exciting to watch our vision come to life with the help of our outstanding franchise partners who share our passion. Each new location represents an opportunity to build strong, local connections and deliver fresh, quality-driven dining experiences that make a difference in people’s lives.”
Demand for Healthy Fast-Casual Options
While many trends may come and go, consumer demand for fresh, nutritious, healthier options is expected to maintain momentum and grow. Consider the following statistics compiled by US Foods:
- 7 out of 10 consumers say they are more likely to visit a restaurant that offers healthy options, while 84% of restaurant operators say their customers are paying more attention to nutrition when they order, according to the National Restaurant Association.
- 22% of consumers who visit fast casual restaurants say healthy options are an expectation and will go elsewhere if these are not offered, according to Technomic.
- 84% of consumers believe it is increasingly important for chains to offer fresh, local, organic and/or natural ingredients, according to Datassential.
- 58% of diners care less about price and deals and more about the quality and freshness of their meal, according to NPD Group.
Currito’s chef-driven menu features locally sourced ingredients including antibiotic-free chicken, whole grains, greens and other vegetables in tasty bowls or wraps. Among these options are: the classic, comprised of cilantro lime rice, black beans, corn salsa, roasted tomato salsa, jack cheese, sour cream and choice of house hot sauce; the Mediterranean, comprised of brown rice, pico de gallo, house vinaigrette, house-made hummus, cucumber and feta cheese; and the new harissa, with lemon couscous, arugula, feta, carrots, hummus, spicy harissa vinaigrette, golden raisins and sumac spice.
The menu also features all-natural shakes and smoothies prepared with real, wholesome ingredients, as well as several healthy kid-friendly options.
Advantages for Franchise Owners
As Currito focuses on intentional growth, the healthy fast-casual franchise is actively seeking dedicated franchisees who want to join in its commitment to “serve food that makes people feel good.” As an emerging brand in the space, Currito offers prospective franchise owners locations in untapped markets, streamlined operations including an easy opening process, minimal buildout requirements and reduced labor, as well as unparalleled support from experienced franchisors.
The Lanni brothers’ background in the food industry began early, witnessing their dad, Nick Lanni, found the Great Steak and Potato Company and grow it to more than 250 locations. Following his lead, the brothers created the Thunderdome Restaurant Group, which houses brands including Bakersfield, The Eagle, Krueger’s Tavern, SoHi, Maplewood, Pepp & Delores, and CityBird, as well as Currito.
The Lannis are specifically looking to grow Currito’s presence in Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, Tennessee and Pennsylvania. The initial franchise fee for a Currito is $30,000 for single-unit locations and $25,000 for multiple units.
“As we continue to grow, we remain committed to supporting our franchisees and creating an impact in each community,” Joe Lanni says.
For more information about Currito and its franchising opportunities, visit https://www.currito.com/franchise/.
