The inspiration for J'Oli Salad Bar came from a simple observation: the lack of quick, healthy lunch options in the market. “We found it difficult to find a quick and healthy meal without waiting in long queues. And we always found the same menu items, no variety at all, co-founders Oliver Borg and Jean Paul Cascun explain. This gap inspired them to create a brand that would become synonymous with quality, speed, and exceptional customer service.
That was 11 years ago. Since then, the brand has evolved, and what started as a single location has grown into a four-outlet and a main kitchen operation.
This success stems firstly from its founders' diverse backgrounds. Jean Paul brought extensive experience in purchasing and stock control from his time at Farsons Group, while Oliver contributed deep retail expertise in customer service. “Together, we believe that our combined expertise allows J'Oli to deliver high-quality food while maintaining good operational standards and customer experience,” they note.
Also at the heart of J'Oli's success is its commitment to personalisation. “Building strong relationships with customers by allowing for salad customisation, for example, has helped J'Oli to give a personalised service, and customers appreciate it,” the co-founders emphasise. They add that “consistency in the preparation and delivery of the product” is also crucial, noting that “FAST is key.”
Since starting out, J'Oli has also embraced technological innovation to enhance customer experience and operational efficiency. “We've significantly integrated technology into our business,” the owners explain, adding, “we now offer online ordering and delivery services through our website, and we've implemented advanced POS systems.” The company has also introduced self-ordering kiosks to reduce wait times and implemented sophisticated monitoring systems to track waste and manage inventory.
Meanwhile, the founders prioritise creating a positive work environment for employees. “As leaders, we believe in working collaboratively with our team, fostering an environment where open communication is important,” they state, noting, “we understand the importance of looking after our team's well-being, and we prioritise giving everyone the space and time they need to recharge.”
Looking ahead, J'Oli has ambitious expansion plans. “In the next five to 10 years, we see J'Oli expanding both nationally and internationally,” the co-founders share. “Franchising will be a big part of this growth, allowing us to scale while maintaining the core principles that have made us successful.”
The company is also exploring partnerships with influencers, nutritionists, and corporate offices to reach new customers, but their mission remains unchanged: “to provide fresh, custom made, nutritious, and affordable meals that empower our customers to live a more vibrant and healthier life without breaking their bank account.”
Ultimately, J'Oli sets itself apart through several key strategies. “We focus not only on providing a good quality meal but also on creating a holistic experience that matches with our customers’ values,” Jean Paul and Oliver explain. They highlight the importance of “understanding customer preferences and market trends” and maintain that “networking and engaging with experienced professionals in the industry” is crucial for reaching new heights.
And as J'Oli continues to grow, it remains committed to its founding principles while adapting to evolving consumer needs. Through strategic expansion, technological innovation, and an unwavering focus on customer satisfaction, the team behind J'Oli are focused on positioning it as a leading name in healthy, fast-casual dining across Europe and beyond.
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