Clean Eatz has big news to celebrate. The healthy food franchise just climbed to #293 in the 2025 Franchise Times Top 400. That’s up 58 positions from last year’s #351 ranking.
This achievement matters. It shows Clean Eatz is growing fast in a tough industry. The brand now operates more than 125 locations across the country. And the momentum keeps building.
The Franchise Times Top 400 is the most respected ranking in franchising. It’s based on actual sales numbers across all locations. Franchise Times spends five months reviewing financial documents and company reports. This isn’t a popularity contest. It’s hard data that proves which franchise concepts are really working.
For Clean Eatz to jump 58 spots means real growth. The brand delivered strong revenue increases that beat hundreds of other franchises. That kind of performance tells potential franchisees something important: this business model works.
Why this ranking proves Clean Eatz Cafe delivers results
Moving up in the Franchise Times Top 400 shows real momentum. Consider this fact: only 4% of franchise concepts ever reach 100 units. Clean Eatz blew past that milestone. The brand now has more than 125 locations in 23 states.
The numbers tell the story. According to Franchise Times, Clean Eatz achieved 12.6% sales growth and 12.6% unit growth year-over-year. Those are impressive results in any economy. They’re especially strong during times of inflation and rising interest rates.
This growth reflects what co-founder Don Varady has always emphasized: franchisee profitability drives everything. When franchise owners succeed, the whole system grows. The brand recently brought in Eric Wyatt as its first CEO. Wyatt brings 30 years of restaurant experience from companies like Starbucks, Panera Bread, and Boston Market. His appointment shows Clean Eatz is ready for its next growth phase.
What makes Clean Eatz Cafes attractive to franchise investors
Clean Eatz solves a real problem. It makes healthy eating affordable, convenient, and accessible for busy people. Husband-and-wife founders Don and Evonne Varady started the concept when Evonne’s fitness clients kept asking for the balanced meals she prepared. That simple idea has grown into a thriving franchise system.
The business model includes five distinct revenue streams. This is one of Clean Eatz’s biggest competitive advantages. Every location generates income through:
- Café dining – Full-service healthy meals for dine-in and carry-out
- Grab ‘n Go – Pre-made meals customers can pick up quickly
- Meal Plans – Weekly subscription meals customers order online
- Catering – Event and corporate catering services
- Marketplace – Retail sales of healthy snacks and products
These five revenue streams reduce risk and maximize profit potential. If one area slows down, four others keep generating income. This diversity makes the business more stable and resilient.
The operational model appeals to first-time franchise owners. The compact 2,000-square-foot footprint keeps real estate costs manageable. Most locations close by 7 PM and stay closed on Sundays. The menu is streamlined and requires no prior food service experience. The average unit volume of approximately $1.1 million shows strong financial performance. The total investment ranges from $354,000 to $798,000, making it more affordable than many fast-casual concepts.
Beyond the numbers, Clean Eatz attracts franchisees who connect with the mission: “We Change Livez through clean, balanced food, thought-provoking education and motivational support that inspires results.” Many franchise owners were customers first. They wanted to become what the brand calls “mayor of health” in their communities. This mission-driven approach creates passionate operators and loyal customers.
2026 Expansion Targets: Five Major Markets
Clean Eatz is moving fast on its growth momentum. The brand has identified five major metro markets for 2026 franchise development:
- Charleston, South Carolina
- Chicago, Illinois
- Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas
- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- St. Louis, Missouri
These markets offer diverse demographics and strong population density. They represent significant opportunities for multi-unit development. The timing is perfect. Consumer demand for healthy dining options continues to grow as wellness becomes a bigger priority for Americans.
Clean Eatz’s model serves customers however they want to eat healthy. Whether that’s dining in, taking out, picking up weekly meal plans, or ordering online for nationwide shipping, the brand has it covered.
The bottom line for potential franchisees
Clean Eatz’s 58-position jump in the Franchise Times Top 400 isn’t just a number. It’s proof the franchise system delivers results. The ranking confirms what existing franchisees already know: the business model works, customers love the brand, and the support system helps owners succeed.
With experienced leadership now in place, more than 125 locations proving the concept, and aggressive expansion plans for 2026, Clean Eatz offers a credible opportunity. For entrepreneurs looking for a franchise with proven growth, manageable operations, and meaningful community impact, this Franchise Times achievement provides independent validation.
Clean Eatz isn’t just serving healthy meals. The brand is building a franchise system positioned for continued long-term success.