Overview
Protein Bar & Kitchen, the popular Chicago-based fast-casual chain, is continuing its Midwest expansion with a three-unit franchise agreement that will bring the brand to Indianapolis. The deal marks Protein Bar & Kitchen's first traditional storefront franchise development agreement outside of Illinois, and signals continued momentum for the growing concept.
Leading the Indy expansion are husband-and-wife entrepreneurs Cody Selman and Jamie Little, experienced multi-unit franchise operators, along with Little’s tenure as an accomplished NASCAR broadcaster.
“From the moment we discovered Protein Bar & Kitchen, we were impressed by its commitment to providing nutritious, high-quality food that fits today's active lifestyles," said Jamie Little. "Indianapolis is a vibrant, growing market with a strong appreciation for health-conscious dining options, and we're excited to introduce a brand that makes healthy eating both convenient and enjoyable.”
Founded on the belief that better-for-you eating should be accessible, flavorful, and convenient, Protein Bar & Kitchen has spent more than 17 years refining a menu of protein-packed bowls, wraps, salads and shakes designed to fuel every BODY. As consumer demand for protein-rich, health-conscious meal options continues to rise, the brand remains well-positioned to meet the evolving needs of today's consumer.
The brand's momentum is reflected in its reported average unit volume of $1.388 million*, underscoring the growing appeal of protein-focused fast-casual dining and Protein Bar & Kitchen's leadership in the category. Indianapolis represents a natural next step for the brand, with a growing population of health-conscious consumers seeking convenient, nutritious dining options that fit their active lifestyles.
Earlier this year, Protein Bar & Kitchen joined the Founders Table collection (also including Chopt, Dos Toros, and Hopdoddy) of best-in-class fast casual brands. The platform now counts over 200 restaurants across 18 states with systemwide revenue approaching $500mm. Each brand focuses development regionally, allowing for deeper market penetration and operational focus, while simultaneously enjoying the benefits of scale.
Drake added, "We've built a franchise system designed to support long-term operator success, and we're excited to partner with entrepreneurs who recognize the opportunity to bring better-for-you dining options to more communities."Considered a pioneer of the better-for-you, protein-focused fast-casual concepts, Protein Bar & Kitchen’s roots date back to 2009, when a big idea was launched from a small storefront in downtown Chicago. Frustrated by a lack of dining options catering to a vital, active lifestyle, founder Matt Matros had a vision: instead of fast food, he would serve “fast fuel”—delicious, nutritious, protein-packed shakes. The menu was later expanded to include a full selection of high-protein salads, wraps, and bowls customizable for all diets – something for every BODY. Seventeen years later, Protein Bar & Kitchen continues to innovate with new, delicious, protein-packed shakes and menu items and is on its way to opening numerous locations through licensing and franchise models.
