Friska is a fast food business started in Bristol 5 years ago, and makes and sells ‘Fresh, Interesting and Globally Inspired Fast Food’ for its target market of 20-40 somethings. Friska is about much more than the food (Deki Micro Finance Partnership, Green Business of the Year, 3 Star Sustainability Champion, and more). For now it is growing the business in the “regions” – Birmingham and Manchester – but eventually will be coming to London.
Friska has now secured £1.25 million of investment to open 10 new sites in Bristol, Birmingham and Manchester. The money which has been raised through two angel investors and Santander forms the first stage of the company’s national roll out plans.
Since opening their first place in 2009, founders Ed Brown and Griff Holland have opened 4 sites across the city building up a great reputation with their fast food and speciality coffee. The duo plan to open at least one more Bristol outlet before moving up to Birmingham in early 2015. A similar cluster of stores is currently in the pipeline for both Birmingham and Manchester.
Strong financial performance
The successful funding round comes on the back of consistently strong financial performance which saw Friska increase its sales by 50% between 2013 to 2014. Next year the company is forecast to hit over £2.5 million pounds in turnover coupled with healthy profit margins.
Reflecting on the investment, Ed said, “This is absolutely fantastic news for Friska. Since opening in 2009 we have always had big plans and have been focused on growing a successful and, crucially, well loved business by our customers and colleagues alike. To see the plan coming together is just fantastic.”
Griff added, “This year really has been the most exciting one yet. Our focus on redefining expectations within our sector is becoming a reality and we can’t wait to open in Birmingham and Manchester. Lunchtimes will never be the same again!”
The deal was overseen by Matt Eves and Peter Doe of Isca Ventures who have previously worked with Loungers Group, Taylor Street Baristas and Parsons Bakery. On successful completion of the deal, Peter said “Friska’s “on the money” customer proposition of feel good food coupled with their efficient operations have enabled the founders to raise significant capital and start their exciting national roll out.”
The founders are also currently in discussions with an International franchise operator to take Friska to new developments in major leisure and transport hubs. Watch out for news!
For more information click here
Follow us on Twitter @friskafood
About Friska
Founded in Bristol in 2009, Friska serves breakfast, lunch and great coffee around its idea of Feel Good Food; globally inspired food made using the best quality, fresh and responsibly sourced ingredients. With a target market of young professionals within central business districts, Friska is focused on being the best place to go for breakfast and lunch whether eating in or taking away.
Co-founders Ed Brown and Griff Holland (Graduates in Economics from The University of Bath) are focused on building an A Team of people who strive to grow the company throughout the UK in an Authentic, Fresh and Full of Life Way which truly redefines expectations within the grab-and-go breakfast and lunchtime market.