Successful Previous European Wax Center franchisees choose Konala as their next high-growth venture in healthy fast food
Coeur d’Alene, ID (RestaurantNews.com) Konala, the healthy fast-food brand known for its macro-friendly, high-protein, entirely gluten-free menu and efficient drive-thru model – is continuing its East Coast expansion with a new three-unit deal in the Philadelphia market.
The deal was signed by Circle9 LLC, a franchise group with a strong track record previously operating multiple top-performing European Wax Center locations. Now, they’re bringing their expertise to fast casual – drawn to Konala by its simplicity, passionate leadership, and mission to make healthy food more accessible.
“We were specifically looking for a newer brand with a real vision behind it,” said a representative from Circle9. “When we met Trace and saw what he’s building with Konala, everything just clicked.”
As a large family with young kids, the group was also personally invested in the problem Konala solves: finding fast, truly healthy food that kids love and parents feel good about. With busy schedules and limited time, they found themselves frustrated by the lack of drive-thru options that avoided greasy, artificial ingredients.
“Konala is what we’ve been looking for – not just for our own families, but for communities everywhere,” they shared. “It’s quick, clean, and the food actually tastes amazing. Our kids crave it, and we trust what’s in it.”
The group was also impressed by the operational simplicity of Konala’s model. With no fryers, just rice cookers, a self-cleaning oven, and streamlined bowl assembly, they felt confident jumping into fast food despite having no restaurant background.
“Any hesitation we had about entering the restaurant space disappeared after seeing the setup. It’s so efficient – and clearly built to scale.”
For their first location, Circle9 is targeting a drive-thru, stand alone, or endcap in the Main Line suburbs just outside central Philadelphia. Ideal sites include conversions, build-to-suit, or modular builds – thanks to Konala’s flexible real estate strategy.
Site recommendations can be sent to jacob.farber@morrowhill.com.
This latest deal adds to Konala’s accelerating growth momentum. Since launching its franchise program, the brand has signed deals across multiple states, drawing experienced operators and passionate families alike.
“The Circle9 team is exactly the kind of franchise partner we’re looking for,” said Konala founder Trace Miller. “They understand what it takes to scale, and they’re personally connected to our mission. We’re thrilled to bring Konala to the Philly market with them.”
With 20+ units in development, flexible buildout options, and record-breaking inquiry volume, Konala is rapidly becoming one of the most exciting new brands in franchising – offering the crave-ability of Chick-fil-A or CAVA, but with a cleaner, healthier twist.
Franchise opportunities are available now for experienced operators and health-focused entrepreneurs ready to grow with a category-defining brand. Inquiries: KonalaFranchise.com.
About Konala
Founded in 2023 by Trace and Jammie Miller, Konala (Pronounced: Koe-Nah-Luh) is redefining fast food with a focus on healthy, flavorful protein bowls served through a convenient drive-thru model. Inspired by their own commitment to a fit lifestyle and named after their two rescue dogs, Kona and Nala, Konala offers a menu packed with nutritious options like Bang Bang Shrimp, Poke, and hearty Burrito Bowls, with some bowls containing up to 73 grams of protein. Guests can choose from bases like white or brown rice, greens, or a mix of both. Entirely gluten-free and free of fryers or high-sugar sodas, Konala stands out in a market saturated with less healthy options. With online ordering, third-party delivery, and outdoor seating, Konala makes healthy eating both delicious and convenient.
About Fransmart
As the leading franchise development firm in the country, Fransmart turns emerging restaurant concepts into successful national and global brands. Founded by Dan Rowe, the man who identified and grew brands such as Five Guys Burgers & Fries and QDOBA Mexican Grill from single unit businesses to the powerhouse chains they are today. Fransmart’s current and past franchise development portfolio brands have opened more than 5,000 restaurants worldwide. For more information, visit Fransmart.com.
Contact:
Lynnea Rogers
Fransmart
lynnea@fransmart.com
