Check out Raw Energy's plans to be at the forefront of health food cafes before 2017
QSR Media got a chance to talk with Jay Giles, Raw Energy Operation Manager, and discuss his brand's growth and plans for the future.
Raw Energy is a healthy café, espresso and juice bar born out of the Sunshine Coast. The brand focuses on bringing fresh, healthy food that is served fast in a funky environment.
QSR Media: Can you tell us more about Raw Energy?
Jay Giles: Raw Energy was established in 1998 at Coolum Beach on the Sunshine Coast. The vibe was incredible, the staff were amazing and always customer focused, and the menu, I feel, was ahead of its time. The brand grew over the next twelve years to five locations on the Sunshine Coast, and one in Coolangatta on the Gold Coast. This past year has seen a resurgence in the brand’s growth with Raw Energy cafés opened in Brisbane’s CBD, Toowoomba, and two in Wollongong.
We have recently launched two new cafés at the University of the Sunshine Coast, and another one is on the way near the new University Hospital at Birtinya. We are getting incredible interest from all across Australia now and I am very proud and excited to be part of it.
QSR Media: What do you hope to accomplish for 2016?
Jay Giles: Simply, growth. Growth for our brand, as well as growth for our franchisees. We will be launching a new and improved menu to all our current locations, which has received some very positive feedback over our trial period. The menu focuses more on natural energy, with superfoods and additional seasonal menu items. It is my prediction we will be at the forefront of health food cafés by the end of the year, if we are not already.
QSR Media: What are the current challenges your brand is facing?
Jay Giles: Probably change is one of the biggest challenges as Raw Energy is experiencing fast growth but it is a positive challenge and will put us towards our ultimate goal of being the industry leaders in the wholesome food space.
QSR Media: Can you tell us more about the process which goes behind making the brand's menu options?
Jay Giles: I love using new ingredients, free-styling new flavour combinations, and working alongside other great chefs. It stimulates my imagination and inspiration. When creating our menu we rely on our incredible staff across all locations. They are in direct contact with our clients and are the ears of the company. We often release specials to test the demand and depending on the uptake, the item will be added to the menu. Nothing will ever be added without knowing that it is a proven seller and fits our brand ethos. Therefore, I am always willing to put new ideas to the test and improve them until they become a part of our menu.
QSR Media: What would you like to tell the market about where your brand is strategically headed?
Jay Giles: I’m confident Raw Energy will be present across Australia in the next 18 months. We have a great national team in place, a proven model, and continuously growing public demand for great healthy products.
