Woods Joined the Fast-Casual Franchisor in 2023
WOWorks, the parent company of Saladworks, Frutta Bowls, Garbanzo Mediterranean Fresh, The Simple Greek, Barberitos and Zoup! Eatery, has promoted Nolan Woods from senior vice president of operations to chief operating officer. Nolan joined WOWorks in 2023 and has held various leadership roles, such as vice president of operations and vice president of brand strategy. He also is a Saladworks franchise owner.
Woods said WOWorks’ multi-brand platform was a huge draw for him because, while each brand has its own customer base and growth opportunities, they all benefit from shared resources and expertise. “That creates a unique environment where best practices can be developed and scaled across multiple concepts,” he said. “Saladworks was especially meaningful because it was a hometown brand for me. I initially joined to lead that brand specifically, but the opportunity to help shape the future of the broader WOWorks platform was equally exciting.”
Since joining WOWorks, Woods said the franchisor has increased its focus on franchisee profitability and creating scalable systems. “We’ve invested heavily in training, technology, operational standards and business development programs that help franchisees drive both top-line growth and bottom-line performance.”
Woods said franchise ownership experience has strengthened his leadership skills. “I understand the realities our franchisees face every day,” he said. “When we develop programs, initiatives or operational changes, I always ask myself, ‘Would this make sense if I were the one writing the check?’
“For WOWorks to continue leading in franchising, we have to remain relentlessly focused on franchisee profitability and operational simplicity. Strong brands are built on successful operators. That means providing exceptional training, practical support, effective marketing tools and systems that help franchisees grow sustainably. When franchisees succeed, the entire system succeeds.”
Expanding the Leadership Team
Woods is joined on the leadership by James Walker, the new chief growth officer. WOWorks CEO Kelly Roddy said Woods and Walker have the experience to take the company to the next level.
“James will be a game changer for us, helping to identify high-quality franchise partners to drive our growth, while Nolan’s operational expertise will ensure we deliver excellence to our guests every day. Together, they provide a powerful foundation for franchisee success and long-term growth,” Roddy said.
Running a Business
Woods advises aspiring franchise owners to be involved in their businesses. “The biggest misconception about franchising is that it’s passive,” he said. “Successful franchisees are engaged in their businesses, especially in the early years. At the same time, they have to be careful not to get trapped in the business and lose sight of working on the business. The goal is not just to operate the business day-to-day, but to build something that can grow.”
He also encourages prospective franchisees to trust the system. “Franchise systems aren’t built to limit creativity — they’re built from years of testing, refinement and lessons learned. The systems, processes and standards exist because they represent proven best practices that improve the odds of success. The entrepreneurs who tend to perform best are the ones who combine their local market knowledge and leadership skills with a commitment to executing the system consistently.”
Woods lives in New Jersey with his wife, two daughters and three dogs, who keep his life entertaining when he’s not traveling, working in restaurants or kayaking. He is also a lifelong musician who owns a recording studio, Blue Fox Sound.
About WOWorks
Founded in 2020, WOWorks is a fast-casual restaurant franchisor that focuses on healthier dining options. The company has expanded to nearly 240 restaurants across the country.
