itsu signs agreement with Savvi Dining Group for new franchise restaurant as it embarks on ambitious expansion strategy

Outlet to open in late September at Food Central in Leicester’s Fosse Park

itsu, the Asian inspired healthy restaurant and grocery brand, has signed an agreement with Savvi Dining Group to open its second franchise outlet in the UK. 

The site, scheduled to open in late September, will be located at Food Central, the recently completed £168 million expansion to Leicester’s Fosse Park shopping and leisure destination. 

itsu founder Julian Metcalfe says: “The zen design of the new restaurant will complement the healthy and moreish Asian-inspired menu. 

“The food is all freshly made on site and features new brown rice and noodle bowls, more plant-based dishes, wholegrains, copious greens, fresh herbs and aromatics, along with sharing and family platters with an absolute embargo on deep-fat frying.”

The new restaurant will seat up to 78 customers and operate with extended opening hours. Customers will have the choice of takeaway or eat-in options. 

Aaron Moore-Saxton, itsu partnerships director, says: “We’re delighted to have signed this partnership with Savvi Dining Group, who bring a wealth of experience in franchising and have demonstrated a real passion for the itsu brand. 

“There is a growing consumer demand for healthy food that can be enjoyed either on the go or in restaurants and we’re ideally placed to help organisations looking to expand into this market.

“itsu is as one of the best known and respected healthy eating brands and offers a fantastic partnership model, with opportunities in the UK and internationally. 

“We have the capability to combine a high volume of customers, mid-market pricing and the opportunity for strong returns. 

“We’re embarking on an ambitious expansion strategy and are receptive to enquiries from experienced franchise operators who can demonstrate an ability to operate at scale across multiple sites, replicating the itsu customer experience and upholding the values of our brand.”

itsu currently has 70 restaurants in the UK.

Most of its menu is under 500 calories, a third is plant-based and the majority is under £6. 

All restaurants have a half-price sale every evening to avoid food waste.