Protein Bar & Kitchen says it plans to open 100 locations nationwide over the next five years as it commences a franchising program for its fast-casual restaurant concept.

The company is seeking to expand the market of its protein shakes, smoothies, breakfast scrambles, high-protein salads, wraps, and customizable bowls outside Chicago.

The company intends to focus on Illinois and neighboring states for the initial franchising activity and later expand to the Southeastern region.

“After taking the past few years to re-think and perfect our franchise model and our brand post-pandemic, it’s a huge milestone for us to officially re-announce franchising,” said Jeff Drake, president and CEO at Protein Bar & Kitchen.

“It’s all come together, with customer loyalty rates and AUVs proving the adjustments to the menu, modernized and brightened décor and ordering convenience platforms are all working.”

The company also signed licensing agreements to open stores in O’Hare, La Guardia and Salt Lake City airports.