Former London restauranteur Indi Cooray is venturing into the ‘grab and go’ market with the launch of Salad Republic.
Located in Trump Street, Bank, Salad Republic, described by Cooray as a ‘culinary sanctuary’, has a focus on freshness and healthy eating options demanded by today’s food-conscious consumers.
Cooray and co-founders Soley Hal and Chanaka Hal are tapping into food lifestyle trend with their first Salad Republic store, which will open its doors on Monday November 4.
The trio have invested almost £250,000 into the business, which will be open weekdays between 10am-3.30pm and will create 15 new jobs.
Salad Republic has been inspired by a personal story of battling excess weight and health issues by 37-year-old Cooray and his co-founders.
Redemption has been found in the by creating a food haven where quality, health and freshness have not been sacrificed for convenience.
Salad Republic has outlined four key USPs that differentiate it from other ‘grab and go’ establishments across the capital.
Global fusion flavours
A culinary adventure awaits as Salad Republic is inspired by cuisines from around the world including Mediterranean Greek salads, Asian-fused options including fresh sashimi and sushi.
Customisation and personalisation
Salad Republic options include build-your-own salad from a choice of greens, proteins, toppings, dressings and signature fusion ingredients.
Convenience without compromise
Customers can enjoy convenient dining options without sacrificing flavour or quality. Each salad will be wholesome and tailored to their tastebuds and needs.
Commitment to health and sustainability
Salad Republic is aligned to Cooray’s own personal story so that it promotes wellness through food – with nutrient rich salads. In addition, it also takes responsibility for reducing its environmental footprint with sustainable practices in sourcing, packaging and operations.
Cooray believes these four USPs will enable it to appeal to London’s city workers.
He said: “We have chosen to open our first Salad Republic in Bank because of its high density of office workers, who are after lifestyle foods – and our salads will meet this need.
“We are aware there are competitors, who have shown there is an appetite for salads, but we are different to any competitors. We have thoroughly researched ingredients to offer a wide range of options, while the store will also offer ‘grab and go’ sushi, which will be a signature theme.
“Our salads are affordable, given the quality and freshness and range of ingredients. As well as locally sourced we also use some of the best ingredients from around the world. The variety on offer also makes us stand out.”
Customers are invited to take advantage of its 50% off opening launch offer. For convenience, ‘click and collect’ orders can be placed online or through its soon-to-be-launched app, while it has also partnered with Deliveroo.
Salad Republic is Cooray’s second venture in the food industry following on from Inso Pan Asian Cuisine, a Japanese restaurant located in Northwood.
Originally from Sri Lanka, he came to the UK to study a business management degree and ‘fell’ into the restaurant business after deciding the ‘9-5’ life wasn’t for him.
With no experience in the food or restaurant industry he turned the one-time takeaway into a successful 60-covers restaurant, which he sold to raise investment for Salad Republic.
His ambition now is to build the Salad Republic brand and open future branches – but only after ensuring the concept works.
He added: “There are expansion plans but we are not looking to rush it. It is about creating the right system, taking stock to prove the concept before seeking our next outlets. In terms of numbers, we’re potentially looking at five to 10 more branches over the next five years.”
