---
title: "Pokeworks Builds Momentum in First Half of 2026 with Franchise Growth and Menu Innovation"
url: https://burnaze.com/article/8d811ce4-a03b-402e-8155-c605ece6a04f
source: "Franchising.com"
original_url: https://www.franchising.com/news/20260812_pokeworks_builds_momentum_in_first_half_of_2026_with_franchise_growth_and_m.html
category: "Fast casual"
industry: "Restaurants"
segment: "Fast casual"
published: 2026-08-12T12:00:00.000Z
modified: 2026-10-31T14:43:28.618Z
image: https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1561758033-d89a9ad46330?w=1600&q=80&auto=format&fit=crop
---

# Pokeworks Builds Momentum in First Half of 2026 with Franchise Growth and Menu Innovation

**TL;DR:** Pokeworks has opened five new locations and signed multi-unit franchise agreements since the start of 2026, with systemwide operations now at 85 locations across 22 states. The brand is experiencing 10% year-over-year unit growth and outpacing industry sales and transaction performance.

*originally published in Franchising.com on 2026-08-12. [Read the original](https://www.franchising.com/news/20260812_pokeworks_builds_momentum_in_first_half_of_2026_with_franchise_growth_and_m.html).*

## Story

Since the start of the year, Pokeworks opened five new locations and signed multi-unit franchise agreements. Systemwide, Pokeworks now operates 85 locations across 22 states, reflecting 10% year-over-year unit growth. An additional eight locations are currently under construction and slated to open throughout the remainder of the year.

The brand is also outpacing and doubling industry year-over-year sales and transaction performance, further underscoring the strength and consistency of its unit-level economics. Much of this growth is being fueled by existing franchise partners, many of whom continue to sign up for additional units as they expand alongside the brand.

"We've had a strong first half of 2026, and it's a direct reflection of the confidence our franchise partners have in Pokeworks," said Peter Yang, Co-Founder and Head of Development at Pokeworks. "With openings in new markets like the Central California Coast, we're continuing to grow thoughtfully, and we're especially proud that so much of our growth is coming from franchisees who are expanding their footprint with us. As we move into the second half of the year, we remain focused on deepening our presence in current markets and supporting our partners every step of the way."

Alongside its franchise growth, Pokeworks introduced its new High-Protein Surf & Turf Bowl, directly aligning with consumer trends towards protein-forward menu options. Bringing together premium ahi tuna and chicken breast with creamy avocado, surimi salad, double edamame, fresh greens, and chilled ramen noodles, the limited-time bowl delivers 44 grams of protein and 10 grams of fiber per bowl. The launch reflects Pokeworks' continued commitment to menu innovation and giving guests craveable, better-for-you options that can fit into busy lifestyles.

Pokeworks’ first-half momentum has not gone unnoticed. The brand was named to Inc. magazine's fastest-growing companies list and earned a spot on Fast Casual's Movers & Shakers list, indicating a top ranking in its category. The brand has received positive guest feedback and continues to operate Pokeworks Rewards, with sales related to rewards activity increasing over the past two years, indicating ongoing guest engagement.

Founded in 2015, Pokeworks was born from a group of friends and their love for Hawaiian poke. After experiencing authentic poke, the founders recognized the clear gap on the mainland and set out to bring the fresh flavors of Hawaiian poke by offering customizable, healthy poke bowls, burritos, and salads. Its Poke Your WayⓇ approach lets guests tailor orders to various diets, including vegan and gluten-free, while offering convenient grab-and-go options for guests on the go.

## Entities

- Franchising.com (publication)
- unit expansion (topic)
- QSR (sector)
- franchise growth (topic)
- menu innovation (topic)
- Pokeworks (company)
- Peter Yang (person)
- year-over-year growth (topic)

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Originally reported by Franchising.com (https://www.franchising.com/news/20260812_pokeworks_builds_momentum_in_first_half_of_2026_with_franchise_growth_and_m.html). Summarized by Burnaze (https://burnaze.com/article/8d811ce4-a03b-402e-8155-c605ece6a04f).