Colorado Springs, CO now has three new things to look forward to. Toastique Colorado is coming to town with not just one or two but THREE all-new locations! And who better to lead this nationally recognized and growing healthy breakfast franchise than Kevin and Krista Christianson?
It would be an understatement to say the pair is excited about the venture. “We believe in the brand, and we believe in ourselves! For us, it’s the next adventure in our long-term partnership,” says Krista about owning a healthy franchise with Toastique.
One of the things you notice about the Christiansons is they seem to have an uncanny knack for making the right choices. To begin with, they have been married for 23 years. The couple has a son and a daughter, and they have lived in Colorado Springs since 2017.
Krista spent 21 years in the Air Force working as a nurse anesthetist. Kevin has over 25 years of experience in the restaurant and retail industry. He also has prior experience in the food service industry, having run his own quick-service restaurant when the family was in California.
Kevin and Krista Christianson have demonstrated through their professional and personal lives that they value loyalty, discipline, and commitment. While that makes the couple inspirational, what makes them unique is how they defy the stereotypes around entrepreneurship.
There has been an unfortunate assumption that starting your own business is only an option for those in their 20s or 30s, or that owning a business is only possible with years to decades of previous business management experience. In actuality, becoming a business owner through investing in a healthy franchise like Toastique is a smart and fun way to transition from one’s previous career to something that can bring a new level of personal and professional fulfillment. Kevin and Krista Christianson are prime examples of what it really takes to own and run a successful business.
Anyone can become an entrepreneur provided they have the commitment to work hard, desire to learn, and can demonstrate people management skills. For the Christiansons, it was also an opportunity to start an exciting journey together. Krista says, “Entrepreneurship seemed like the perfect fit as we redefine our goals for the next several years.”
For the couple, investing in Toastique was more than a business venture. Krista explains, “As a family, we experienced both personal and professional transitions in recent years that inspired us to reinvent and reinvest in ourselves.”
It’s not just for themselves, though. The Christiansons are also embarking on this exciting phase of their lives to inspire the next generation. As Krista says, “We want to set a positive example for our children.”
One can safely say that this family is into sports, particularly soccer. Kevin has played soccer all of his life. He has also been a youth soccer coach for several years. Both of the couple’s children also play soccer at a competitive level. The Christiansons place high importance on health and with Toastique’s focus on healthy, all-natural food, the franchise brand seemed like the perfect fit.
“Toastique represents everything we were looking for in a fast-casual concept,” says Krista. The family’s reason for choosing Toastique is perhaps the simplest, yet also the most important motivation for owning a business: “It is a place where we would want to be customers.”
The couple saw the positive effects the healthy breakfast franchise can bring to their neighborhood. Krista says they “liked the idea of introducing healthy vibrant food options into our community.” But it’s not just the healthy gourmet toasts or cold-pressed juices that the couple has in mind.
They are also extremely serious about “delivering it in a way that meets our high standards for quality and customer service.” Krista is confident that they can do it, saying, “it helps that Kevin works so well with customers and they love him.”
The couple was also impressed by the Founder of Toastique Brianna Keefe and Kyle Izett, CFO and Director of Construction. “They welcomed our questions, provided tons of information, showed us their stores, and made us feel like we could be part of the brand,” Krista recalls.
THE APPROVAL DAY EXPERIENCE
The Christiansons believe that they were fortunate to be able to spend a day with Toastique healthy franchise Founder Brianna Keefe and COO/Construction Manager Kyle Izett, along with the rest of the executive team at their Approval Day in Washington, D.C. What they liked about the leadership of Toastique was the leadership team’s openness. Krista says, “Brianna and Kyle were genuine and transparent about their backgrounds and goals for the brand. It was like hanging out with friends!”
The new Franchise Owners loved having a first-hand experience of how Toastique worked during their Approval Day. As Krista explains, “We were able to see Brianna and Kyle in their element and how they interacted with their staff and their team.”
What made the couple choose Toastique over others? They did their market research about the product and the Founders and found them to be “far superior to any other concept.” But it was the meeting with Brianna and Kyle that cemented the deal for the Christiansons.
“Once Kevin and I experienced Toastique as customers while sitting down with Brianna and Kyle in D.C., we both knew we were in the right place,” says Krista.
Do they have any advice for fellow entrepreneurs? Krista’s succinct response sums up the couple’s focus, determination, and drive: “Be patient. It can be a long process.”
HEALTHY GOALS FOR A HEALTHY FRANCHISE
As Opening Day draws nearer and nearer for Krista and Kevin, the couple looks forward to what they consider one of the most important things about owning a healthy franchise like Toastique: “We can’t wait to provide something healthful and positive in our own community.”
Kevin and Krista are excellent role models for anyone thinking of becoming an entrepreneur and helping their community thrive in more ways than one. They are excited to introduce their neighborhood to Toastique’s unique offerings that include healthy gourmet toasts, açaí bowls, espresso drinks, and cold-pressed juices.
They are also encouraged by their potential for success, thanks to Toastique’s lean business model and multiple, easy-to-pivot revenue streams and flexible format. We are encouraged to welcome another amazing couple of Owners into our growing healthy franchise family, and can’t wait to see what Krista and Kevin accomplish!
Click here to learn more about our available healthy franchise opportunities.im
It started with one café.
In 2018, Brianna Keefe opened Toastique at The Wharf in Washington, D.C. The concept was simple: gourmet toast, smoothie bowls, cold-pressed juices, and espresso made with fresh, clean ingredients. Food that looked as good as it tasted. A space that felt vibrant and intentional.
Locals loved it. Lines formed. People came back. And back again.
By 2020, Toastique opened franchising Toastique to the public. The response? More than anyone expected. Four years later, Toastique franchise growth has reached 97 franchise partners across 25+ states, from California to New York, Texas to Minnesota. The 100th café is on the horizon.
This franchise expansion case study tells the story of how it happened. And more importantly, the people who made it happen.
What Franchisees Were Looking For
You've probably felt it before.
The alarm goes off. You head into work. Meetings stack up. Hours disappear. And somewhere along the way, you start wondering, is this really what I want?
That's where so many Toastique franchisees started. Successful on paper. Burned out in reality.
Some spent decades in corporate roles. Others served in the military. A few faced health challenges that changed their perspective entirely. But they all reached the same point: ready for something different. Something that matched how they actually wanted to live.
The problem? Finding it wasn't easy.
Traditional franchises felt too rigid. Fast food didn't align with their values. And walking away from a steady paycheck to become an entrepreneur? That's not a small decision.
Francisco Vallejo knows the feeling. He and his wife, Marisel, now own Toastique Laredo. But getting there took a shift in mindset.
"After facing challenges with my own health, I realized it was time to make a change. Now, my wife and I are committed to nourishing our bodies with wholesome, high-quality ingredients — and we wanted to bring a concept to Laredo that reflects those values." — Francisco Vallejo, Franchise Owner, Toastique Laredo
The doubts were real. The hesitation was valid. But for the right opportunity? Worth pushing through.
Why Toastique
Toastique offered something different.
Not just a café. A concept that matched how you already want to live. Fresh, vibrant, and intentional. The kind of place you'd actually want to spend time in. And a business model designed to make ownership feel possible, not overwhelming.
A Menu Worth Believing In
Picture gourmet toast piled with creamy avocado, heirloom tomatoes, and peppery microgreens. Smoothie bowls layered with açaí, fresh fruit, and house-made granola. Cold-pressed juices in every color. Handcrafted espresso drinks.
Every item looks nourishing and delicious. And they really are. The kind of food people photograph before they take a bite. And share with everyone they know.
But it's more than visuals. The menu drives traffic all day. Morning lattes. Lunchtime toasts. Afternoon smoothies. That means multiple revenue streams — and guests who make Toastique part of their routine.
A Model Built to Work
Investment ranges from $472K to $891K, depending on location and format. Training is hands-on, 254 hours total. That breaks down to 32 in the remote and 222 onsite at Toastique's D.C. flagship.
Most franchisees go from signing to opening in 11 to 14 months. Operations stay simple. Quick ticket times. Minimal waste. Efficient layouts. And if you're thinking bigger, developer agreements let you build 6 to 10 locations.
A Team That Actually Shows Up
Behind every Toastique café is a corporate team of 25+ people. Founders lead Approval Day and train themselves. You get support with on-site selection, build-out, and grand-opening marketing, plus ongoing guidance from field consultants.
Tiffany Siegel noticed it immediately. She and her husband, Todd, opened Toastique's first Manhattan location at Bryant Park.
"We were pleasantly surprised that the more we learned, the better the business opportunity seemed. We love that they were transparent from day one – it speaks to their character." — Tiffany Siegel, Franchise Owner, Toastique NYC, Bryant Park
Chrissy Sileo saw it in the culture. She and her husband, Brad, opened in Mt. Lebanon, Pennsylvania.
"When we walked into a location, the employees didn't change their behavior when the founders arrived. Everyone just seemed happy and comfortable to see them. I liked that feel. People seemed to think that was a good place to be and a good place to work." — Chrissy Sileo, Franchise Owner, Toastique Mt. Lebanon
That feeling of trust, transparency, and real partnership turned curiosity into commitment. Over and over again.
97 Partners. 25 States. Here's Why.
Results tell the real story.
Since launching franchising in 2020, Toastique franchise expansion has reached 97 franchise partners across 25 states. Over 226 Franchise Agreements have been awarded.
And the financials back it up.
System-Wide Performance (FDD Item 19, 2026):
Average gross sales of Franchise outlets open 2+ Years: $745,577 (Refer to 2026 Franchise Disclosure Document Item 5
Top-performing location: $1,122,669 ear(footnotes)
Where Toastique Has Landed:
California: 12 locations (largest state footprint)
D.C./Maryland/Virginia: 14 locations
Texas: 7 locations
Colorado: 5 locations
New Jersey: 5 locations
From major metros like NYC, LA, and Dallas to unexpected markets like Rapid City, Wichita, and Laredo — the brand keeps expanding.
Sam Hunter, who opened Toastique Chesapeake with his wife, TC, after 46 combined years in the Navy, recalls the moment it clicked.
"We walked away with our questions answered and feeling comfortable that this was the right choice for our family." — Sam Hunter, Franchise Owner, Toastique Chesapeake
For franchisee after franchisee, the numbers made sense. But it was the people and the process that sealed the deal.
The ROI Story
62% of Toastique franchise partners have signed agreements to open a second location.
Think about what that means.
These aren't people browsing websites or sitting in on webinars. They're owners who've lived the business. They've run the morning rush, trained their teams, and built relationships with their communities. They've seen every side of the operation.
And they're ready to do it all over again.
Four Years of Growth:
2021: 6 locations
2022: 12 locations
2023: 20 locations
2024: 36 locations
2025: 58 locations
Nearly 10x growth. And it's not slowing down.
The Momentum Keeps Building
On June 29, 2024, Toastique celebrated its 25th location opening. Just 14 months later—September 6, 2025—the 50th café welcomed its first guests.
That's 25 new locations in a little over a year. Not a plateau. Not a slowdown. Just steady, consistent momentum.
And the 100th location? Already taking shape.
Real Owners & Real Stories
Numbers only tell part of the story. The rest comes from the people who took the leap.
Tiffany & Todd Siegel — NYC Bryant Park (April 2025)
After years in corporate roles and a stint living in London, Tiffany and Todd were ready for something that felt more like them. They explored hundreds of franchise concepts before finding Toastique. The menu matched how they lived. The leadership felt genuine. Now they run the brand's first Manhattan location — steps from Bryant Park.
Brad & Chrissy Sileo — Mt. Lebanon, PA (June 2025)
Empty nesters looking for their next chapter. Chrissy is a yoga instructor. Brad is a tech entrepreneur. They weren't looking to slow down but wanted to build something together. Toastique's people-first culture won them over. Their café is now a neighborhood favorite in Mt. Lebanon.
Sam & TC Hunter — Chesapeake, VA (November 2023)
Forty-six years of combined Navy service. A brain-tumor survivor. A lifelong commitment to serving others. Sam and TC weren't done making an impact. Toastique gave them a mission-driven business that fit their values. Their café in Summit Pointe has become a local gathering spot.
Laura Anderson & Paul Diballa — Sarasota, FL (July 2023)
Laura is a nurse and educator. Paul is a classically trained chef. Together, they wanted to create something rooted in family, intention, and community. Toastique checked every box. Their downtown Sarasota location brings that energy to every guest who walks in.
Francisco & Marisela Vallejo — Laredo, TX (May 2025)
Francisco spent his career in business administration. Marisela ran her own CPA firm for over 25 years. But it was their personal health journeys that sparked the idea. They wanted to bring something meaningful to their hometown. Toastique was the answer.
What Connects Them All
They came from different backgrounds and different cities. But they all shared the same mindset:
Corporate refugees finding purpose
Families building something together
Health journeys inspiring new directions
Trust in transparent, founder-led leadership
Straight From the Owners
When you ask Toastique owners what advice they'd give, the answers come easily.
Tiffany Siegel recalls her first conversation with the team:
"The thought of explaining the whole thing felt daunting, but I was relieved to hear [the rep] finishing my sentences for me!" — Tiffany Siegel, Franchise Owner, Toastique NYC Bryant Park
Chrissy Sileo points to the culture:
"People seemed to think that was a good place to be and a good place to work." — Chrissy Sileo, Franchise Owner, Toastique Mt. Lebanon
The common advice:
Do your research but trust your gut
Look for transparency and authenticity
Find a brand that matches how you want to live
Just Getting Started
The momentum isn't slowing down.
New markets are already in the pipeline — LA South Park, San Jose, Westlake Village, Reston, and Great Falls. The corporate team keeps growing. Seasonal menu drops and the loyalty program continue driving repeat visits.
Founder Brianna Keefe's vision from day one? Scale the brand without losing what makes it special.
So far, that's exactly what's happening. This café franchise growth story continues to unfold with every new partner, every new market, and every new guest who walks through the door.
Your Move
Ready to be part of the Toastique franchise growth story? Learn more about franchise opportunities at https://toastique.com/pages/franchise
[Take the Franchise Quiz] | [Check Territory Availability]
The health food space isn't slowing down anytime soon. And from what we're seeing, investor appetite is only growing stronger going into next year.
If you've been researchingg franchise opportunities that align with the wellness movement, you've likely come across Toastique, a fast-casual café concept that's been turning heads with its gourmet toasts, smoothie bowls, cold-pressed juices, and handcrafted coffee.
First franchise or fifth? Doesn't matter. Here's the breakdown on Toastique heading into 2026.
Why Health-Conscious Franchise Concepts Are Dominating 2026
Eating habits look different now. Quick food that actually makes you feel good afterward—that's the bar now. And it's not going back to the way things were.
According to Grand View Research, the global smoothies market at $12.46 billion in 2023. The growth projection? It's 9.3% a year through 2030. Acai bowls hit $846 million in 2023, too. Customers are spending real money on stuff that's fast and nutritious.
What's pushing this?
More people connecting the dots between what they eat and how they feel day-to-day
Growing interest in knowing where ingredients actually come from
The appeal of fast-casual spots that feel a cut above typical quick-service
Instagram and TikTok are making photogenic food part of the dining decision
Breakfast and brunch concepts fit this moment particularly well. Morning and midday meals bring people back again and again. Someone grabs a latte on Monday, comes back for a smoothie bowl on Wednesday, and brings a friend on Saturday. Those patterns stick around.
Steady traffic like that looks good on paper. For franchise investors, it means more predictable revenue and tighter unit economics.
Toastique fits squarely into this picture. A café focused on fresh, colorful food in a format that works for how people actually live now.
Toastique Franchise Growth: From D.C. Startup to Nationwide Expansion
Brianna Keefe opened the first location in D.C. back in 2018. She'd played Division I athletics and wanted to build something that made eating well feel easy and enjoyable. The concept clicked.
Franchising started in 2020. Since then:
97 franchise partners have signed on
226 territories are spoken for across the country
The 100th location is on the horizon
That kind of traction says something. The brand figured out how to scale without diluting what made it work in the first place. Plenty of fast-casual concepts lose their identity as they expand. Toastique hasn't. At least not yet.
What does that mean if you're evaluating this now? The model has proof behind it. Infrastructure exists. But here's the catch: Toastique is limiting how many franchises they'll award. It's a way of protecting the brand, basically. So the territory that's open today might not be next year.
Learn more about the brand's journey.
Toastique Franchise Cost and Investment Breakdown
Let's get into the money. The 2026 Franchise Disclosure Document lays it out:
Total investment runs between $471,152 and $890,846. That covers your franchise fee, build-out, equipment, initial inventory, signage, training, and launch marketing.
Franchise fee: $55,000
Royalties: 6% of gross sales
Brand fund: up to 2% of gross sales
You'll need at least $300,000 in liquid capital and $650,000 net worth to qualify.
Compare that to a typical restaurant franchise, and Toastique looks lean. Most full-service concepts start at $500K minimum and can run well past $2 million. The smaller footprint and simpler kitchen setup here keep costs down.
Funding Your Toastique Investment
Toastique won't finance your build-out directly. But there are a few routes that work. Figuring this out early saves time later and makes you a stronger candidate when you apply.
SBA Loans
A lot of franchise owners go with SBA loans. The 7(a) program gives you better rates, up to 10 years to pay it back, and a smaller down payment than most bank loans.
Some lenders already know Toastique, which helps move things along. Plan on putting 10–20% down. Lenders also want to see some business or management background.
401(k) Rollovers (ROBS Programs)
Rollover for Business Startups programs allow you to use retirement funds to invest in your franchise without early withdrawal penalties or tax hits. If you've got a solid 401(k) or IRA and don't want to carry a loan, this could be a fit.
It's a bit of a process: setting up a C corp, creating a retirement plan, and moving your funds over. You'll want someone who does this regularly to keep everything IRS-compliant.
Third-Party Franchise Lenders
Several lenders specialize in franchise financing and understand the unit economics of concepts like Toastique. These lenders often offer faster approvals and more flexible terms than traditional banks.
Toastique connects prospective owners with trusted providers who can help structure a financing package tailored to your situation.
Other Options
Some franchise partners use home equity lines of credit, securities-backed loans, or partner with outside investors to fund their build-out. Combining multiple sources is common, especially for multi-unit deals.
Starting conversations with lenders early—even before signing—gives you a realistic picture of what you can afford and positions you to move quickly when the right territory opens up.
Exploree Franchise Investment for a complete breakdown.
What the Numbers Say About Toastique Franchise Profit Potential
Financial performance is where the conversation gets real. Toastique provides transparent earnings data in its Franchise Disclosure Document, giving prospective owners a clear view of what existing locations are generating.
2025 System-Wide Performance (per 2026 FDD):
Franchise Outlets Open For Two Years Or More Average Gross Sales: $745,577 (Refer to 2026 Franchise Disclosure Document Item 19-table 10)
Top-performing location: $1,122,669 in gross sales (after two years of operation). (Refer to 2026 Franchise Disclosure Document Item 19- Table 9-11)
What Supports Strong Unit Economics:
You're not dealing with ovens, fryers, or hood vents
Locations run about 1,200 to 1,400 square feet—nothing oversized
Most shifts need just 3 to 5 people
Money comes in from a few directions—dine-in, takeout, delivery, catering
All-day menu appeals from morning coffee through afternoon smoothies
The simplicity of the operating model contributes directly to profitability. Lower build-out costs, reduced labor complexity, and efficient kitchen workflows mean more of every dollar flows to the bottom line.
See Franchise Performance Potential for a closer look at the numbers.
Why This Gourmet Toast Franchise Opportunity Stands Out
Health food franchises are not new. Smoothie bars and juice concepts have been around for years. So what makes Toastique different?
A Menu That Defies Category
Toastique isn't just a juice bar or a coffee shop. You've got gourmet toasts, smoothie bowls, juices, wellness shots, collagen lattes, and espresso. Everything's made fresh with ingredients that Toastique actually vets.
The Avocado Smash, Smoked Salmon Toast, and DragonBerry Bowl—these have their own fan bases at this point.
That range gives people a reason to come back more than once. Morning latte, lunch bowl, juice after the gym. Same customer, three visits. That adds up and spreads your revenue across the day.
Operational Simplicity
The kitchen setup is way simpler than most restaurants. Without fryers, ovens, or exhaust hoods, build-outs are faster and more affordable. You run it with fewer people, so scheduling's easier, and payroll stays lower.
Lifestyle-Friendly Hours
Most Toastique locations close by 5 p.m., others at 7 p.m. If you've ever worked restaurant nights, you know what a difference that makes.
Founder-Led Support
Brianna Keefe, named to the Forbes 30 Under 30 list, remains actively involved in the business alongside COO Kyle Izett. Franchise partners receive hands-on guidance from leadership who understand what it takes to open and operate a successful location.
Territory Protection
Each franchise agreement includes a designated territory with a 2-mile radius around the cafe, but this may vary depending on population density and demographics. This helps protect your investment from direct competition with another Toastique location.
Training and Support: What Franchise Partners Receive
Investing in a franchise means investing in a system. Toastique provides comprehensive training and ongoing support designed to set owners up for success—regardless of prior restaurant experience.
Initial Training Program:
In-store instruction covering recipes, ordering, inventory management, point-of-sale systems, and employee training
Hands-on training at the corporate location in Washington, D.C.
Optional on-site training during the pre-opening and launch phases. This service may include a fee.
Ongoing Support:
Regular check-ins with the corporate team
Marketing assistance and social media guidance
Field support from leadership during site selection, construction, and permitting
Access to operational best practices and system updates
The brand has built a reputation for being accessible and responsive. Franchise partners frequently cite thee direct support from founders as a key reason they chose Toastique over other concepts.
Is Toastique the Right Fit for Your Investment Goals?
Not every franchise is right for every investor. Toastique looks for partners who share a genuine passion for wellness and community building, not just financial returns.
Our Ideal Candidate Profile:
Strong leadership and management skills
Passion for health, wellness, and quality food
Community-minded with a desire to create a welcoming space
Entrepreneurial drive and commitment to the brand's mission
Ability to lead a small team and deliver excellent guest experiences
Ownership Models:
Toastique supports both owner-operator and semi-absentee ownership structures. Many partners start with a single unit and expand to multiple locations once they've established operational confidence.
Questions to Consider:
Does the health and wellness positioning resonate with your personal values?
Is there demand for elevated, health-forward dining in your target market?
Do you have access to the required capital and financing options?
Are you prepared to commit to the brand's standards and guest experience?
Take the franchise quiz to see if Toastique aligns with your goals.
Available Territories and Next Steps
Toastique has stated its intention to limit franchise awards to preserve the brand's boutique character. With 220+ territories already claimed, availability is tightening in key markets.
Current growth priorities span coast to coast, with active expansion in urban centers, suburban communities, and high-traffic retail corridors. If you've identified a market you believe would embrace Toastique's concept, now is the time to explore whether that territory remains open.
The Discovery Process:
Submit an inquiry through the franchise website
Participate in an initial call to discuss your background and goals
Review the Franchise Disclosure Document
Attend Discovery Day in Washington, D.C., to meet the team and tour operating locations
Finalize your agreement and begin site selection
View current availability on the Available Franchise Territories page.
Ready to Explore This Franchise Opportunity?
Toastique offers a compelling combination: a health-forward concept aligned with long-term consumer trends, a business model built for operational simplicity, and financial performance that stands out in the fast-casual space.
For aspiring franchise owners evaluating opportunities heading into 2026, the fundamentals are strong. The brand is growing, the unit economics are proven, and the support system is designed to help partners succeed.
If you're ready to take the next step, request the Franchise Disclosure Document or schedule a call with the development team. Contact us and discover the full process on how to start your Toastique franchise.
Your community is hungry for something fresh. Toastique might just be the opportunity to nourish it.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Toastique Franchise
How long does it take to open a Toastique location?
Most franchise partners open within 6 to 12 months after signing their agreement. The timeline depends on site selection, lease negotiations, permitting, and build-out. Toastique's compact footprint and simplified kitchen design often speed up construction compared to traditional restaurant concepts.
What does Toastique look for in a location?
Ideal sites include high-traffic retail corridors, mixed-use developments, and neighborhoods with health-conscious demographics. Proximity to gyms, yoga studios, office buildings, and college campuses tends to perform well. The 1,200–1,400 square foot footprint offers flexibility in real estate selection.
How long until a location typically breaks even?
Results vary by market and operator, but the lean staffing model, lower build-out costs, and multiple revenue streams help many locations reach profitability faster than traditional restaurant concepts. Reviewing the FDD with a financial advisor can help you model realistic projections for your target market.
What is the franchise agreement term?
The initial franchise agreement is typically 10 years, with options to renew. Specific terms are outlined in the Franchise Disclosure Document.
Can I sell my Toastique franchise later if I decide to exit?
Yes. Toastique allows franchise resales, subject to approval and transfer requirements outlined in your agreement. Building a profitable location creates equity you can potentially sell to another qualified buyer down the road.
Sarasota, Florida doesn’t have to wait long to enjoy gourmet toasts and cold-pressed juices from one of the country’s fastest-growing healthy food franchises. Toastique is coming to town under the leadership of Luke and Laura Anderson. For a franchise brand that’s synonymous with healthy and active lifestyles, there couldn’t have been a better pair to introduce Toastique to Sarasota.
For the couple, it was love at first sight. “Having run multiple businesses and after researching the world of franchise businesses, I was truly impressed from the moment I received the first piece of literature about Toastique. I was all in,” says Luke about the couple’s Franchise Discovery Process.
As Laura puts it, “Being the cook in the house, fueling my active family with healthy food has always been a priority. Finding a brand that I could feel good about and help bring that concept to others greatly influenced my desire to partner with Toastique.”
LET’S MEET THE ANDERSONS!
Luke and Laura have lived in the Sarasota area since 2003 and in Lakewood Ranch since 2009. Their only son, Chad, is a junior at Lakewood Ranch High School. Laura, who is originally from Central California, holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice from Eastern Kentucky University. She was also a collegiate D1 softball team member there.
She went back to school at SCF to earn her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN) and was a Labor & Delivery Nurse for five years at Sarasota Memorial Hospital. Looking for an opportunity to spend more time with their son she transitioned to Lakewood Ranch High School where she has served as both a nurse and a faculty member.
Luke is from Florida and was raised in Bradenton. He attended Bayshore High School where he was a multi-sport varsity letterman and went on to play collegiate D1 football at Eastern Kentucky University and earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management. He is the former owner, operator, and partner of Audio Video Partners (AVP), LLC., a low voltage and audio-video integration firm specializing in commercial projects.
Before AVP, Luke was a partner in Synergy Multimedia and later sold that business to Tempus Electronic Lifestyles. At Tempus, he served as the head of operations and project management. He recently sold his ownership in AVP to his partner to pursue new passions and business endeavors.
THE RIGHT BRAND, THE RIGHT LOCATION
What makes Luke and Laura the right Franchise Owners for Toastique’s new location? Well, the Andersons love the area for its “year-round active lifestyle,” as they put it. How active are the couple, by the way? Traveling, hiking, running, fitness, tennis, and cooking are some of their top leisure activities. Sounds pretty active to us!
As Laura says, “We wanted a business that suited our personal and professional backgrounds. With Toastique, we knew right away that it was the perfect fit for us.”
The duo is deeply involved in their community, in everything from youth sports to business networking. They also love the area for its young families and high-level public education. Considering their interests and those of the market they will operate in, Luke says they are excited to bring this new healthy and active lifestyle brand to the area.
From Toastique’s point of view, they’re not just the ideal Franchise Owners. They’re also the ideal customers. This enables the Andersons to better understand the local market and orient their outreach to address the need gap for healthy food in the area.
In Luke’s words, “We were looking for a franchise brand that was new, had a product offering that we could be passionate about, and a modern aesthetic. Toastique checked all of those boxes.”
“GENUINE LEADERSHIP”
Laura and Luke were impressed when they met Toastique’s leadership team, including Founder Brianna Keefe and CFO/Director of Construction Kyle Izett. The Sarasota couple has one word to describe them: genuine. Their admiration for Brianna and Kyle grew as they realized that the Founders were living the Toastique brand values. “Their dedication really struck us,” Laura says.
Approval Day was special for the Andersons. This is the opportunity for prospective Franchise Owners to travel to Toastique’s Washington, D.C. headquarters and experience the operations of the business first-hand, as well as sit down for a face-to-face with Brianna and Kyle. They liked the locations they visited and were impressed by the evolution of the space layout in each new location.
Luke says, “Having built a business from scratch, we know first-hand the challenges you face when owning a business. We were impressed from the beginning by not only the product and image of Toastique but also the business model and level of detail the team has put together.”
The product, the people, and the positioning seemed perfect for the new Franchise Owners. “The gourmet product offerings, clean and elegant branding strategy, and a simple business model that we could be part of early on and bring to our market,” are a few of the things that Laura says helped the couple make their decision.
“After the meeting, we knew this would indeed be a partnership and not just a stand-alone operation,” she adds.
The Andersons know that their new venture will be successful because they’re passionate, determined, and more than willing to put in the hard work. “Combining the business ownership and construction experience Luke has with the passion and determination I possess is going to be a killer combination,” Laura says with confidence.
Laura has a simple piece of advice to future Franchise Owners: Clarify all your doubts. As she states, “There are never too many questions to ask.”
Luke adds, “Owning a business is not easy. Make sure you have a solid plan in place before making this commitment. Your success will not be determined solely by you or your efforts but by your ability to surround yourself with people that make you better.”
Laura and Luke are now looking forward to “bringing this new and healthy brand to our local market and sharing that with family, friends, and the community.”
You too can become an entrepreneur, backed by a national brand known for creative gourmet toasts, cold-pressed juices, açaí bowls, and a simple, proven business model. Please visit our franchise website for more info.
