Advanced Fresh Concepts: Leading Innovation in Supermarket-Based Sushi Services

Advanced Fresh Concepts Franchise Corp. (AFC) stands out as a leading franchisor focused on supermarket-based food service counters, offering freshly made sushi and a variety of Asian-inspired dishes. Founded in November 1986, the brand launched its first sushi bar in Marina Del Rey, California, and now operates from its headquarters in Torrance, California.

The company entered the franchising space in May 2002, providing business owners with the opportunity to run food service counters inside retail locations. AFC’s franchise system is built around delivering fresh, high-quality sushi made daily, aligning with the increasing consumer demand for healthy and convenient meals.

AFC differentiates itself through its expansive footprint and dedication to maintaining quality standards. Today, the company supports a network of more than 4,000 independently owned and operated food service counters throughout the United States, Canada, and Australia.

Training

In the Advanced Fresh Concepts franchise system, the Franchisor provides several types of training programs designed to prepare franchisees for successful operation:

1. Initial Training Program
   The Franchisor offers an initial training program covering the preparation of sushi and other food products, as well as the operational aspects of running a retail food service counter. This training includes both classroom and on-the-job instruction and is mandatory for the franchisee’s principal owners.
2. Post-Opening Training
   For the first location only, the Franchisor provides up to three days of post-opening training at the franchisee’s site at no charge. If additional days of training are needed or requested, they are provided for an additional fee.
3. Additional Training Programs
   From time to time, the Franchisor may require franchisees or their managers to attend additional training sessions, either at the corporate headquarters, online, or other designated locations. These programs cover updated operational procedures or new product introductions and usually involve extra costs for attendance.
4. ServSafe Manager Certification
   Before beginning operations, franchisees and their managers must successfully complete the ServSafe Manager certification and Allergen Awareness Training. These certifications ensure compliance with food safety standards and legal requirements.
5. Ongoing Instruction and Support
   The Franchisor provides continuous education opportunities that may include refresher courses or specialized training in areas such as inventory control, employee management, marketing, and business insurance. This ongoing support helps maintain system-wide quality and consistency.

Territory Protection

In the Advanced Fresh Concepts franchise system, franchisees do not receive any exclusive territory or protected market area. The Franchise Agreement explicitly states that no territory or marketing exclusivity is provided, meaning franchisees may face competition from other franchisees or company-controlled locations operating nearby.

Franchisees are granted a right to operate only at the specific location(s) identified in their Franchise Addendums. Even if Advanced Fresh Concepts grants a specific site to a franchisee, it reserves the right to operate, authorize others to operate, or license other franchises in close proximity.

Additionally, the franchise agreement allows the Franchisor itself to compete with franchisees within the same area without restriction. As a result, franchisees must be prepared for potential overlap and should not expect any guaranteed territorial protection under this system.