Franchising

1st Edible ghost kitchen scares up a lot of business

Photo: File

March 15, 2021

Edible, which just wrapped up "record-breaking" Valentine's Day sales, opened the brand's first ghost kitchen in February in Tucker, Georgia with tremendous success, according to a press release.

The 1,700-square-foot facility serves as a delivery-only location while providing shipping in its geographic area. Additionally, it serves as a backup for surrounding stores during the busiest times of the year, and several virtual brands will be tested there as well, the company said.

The ghost kitchen's first week open, beginning Feb. 6, brought in more than $130,000 in sales. Given the prosperous debut of the first ghost kitchen, the company said more locations will be coming soon in various markets creating an opportunity for Edible owners to expand their portfolio and product reach.

"Edible continues to be a disruptor in the industry and it is amazing to see the fresh innovation with every new category," Patricia Perry, vice president of franchise development, said in the release. "Valentine's Day is an exciting time for our brand and it was an especially memorable holiday this year, paired with the launch of our ghost kitchen. After the rise in sales our stores experienced throughout 2020, it was delightful to see that continue into the first major holiday in 2021 and the busiest time for our brand."

Last year, Edible had 141 new and existing franchisees establish stores, along with 46 stores that reached the $1 million mark. This year the brand plans to open 40 stores and to sign an additional 160 franchise agreements.

Those interested in opening one of the franchises are required to have previous success in foodservice or retail and strong community ties, with investments starting at $173,600. Based in Atlanta, Edible now has more than 1,000 locations worldwide.