Island Poké secures Hero Brands investment to propel international development

The grab-and-go franchisor is steadily increasing both its UK and overseas portfolio

Island Poké, an emerging poké operator based in the UK, has secured investment from Hero Brands to further its plans for both domestic and international growth.

In the last year, Island Poké has more than doubled in size to 17 locations, with four dark kitchen sites open in the UK and a further five in France. By the end of 2021, the brand has plans for at least five new sites to be added to its roster, and a further 40 throughout France over the next five years.

“We’re so excited to be bringing Hero Brands on board and the experience that they’ll bring to the table,” said James Gould-Porter, founder of Island Poké. “We’ve been working closely together and feel that our businesses are a great fit for each other. We’ve seen what they’ve done with other concepts within their portfolio and look forward to growing together.”

Hero Brands also owns franchises such as German Doner Kebab and has plenty of experience when it comes to developing a novel concept. This investment will see Hero Brands join the board alongside early investor Chris Miller of White Rabbit Projects and founder James Gould-Porter.

“Hero Brands is responding to emerging consumer trends and focused on growing the brands of the future. We look to partner with disruptive brands that have a USP and can be scaled and taken to global markets,” said Athif Sarwar, chairman of Hero Brands.

“Island Poké fits with our DNA and is a fantastic concept that is already proving to be a huge hit with consumers across London and France. We are now very much looking forward to working with James and the team to bring our expertise and embark on our ambitions to create a truly global brand.”

Island Poké’s future growth will be spearheaded by the recently appointed Nick Schapira, business development director, who brings with him significant restaurant experience at organisations like The Jamie Oliver Group.

Top image: James Gould-Porter, founder of Island Poké