Image via WaBa Grill Facebook page

A family-owned company in Southern California has inked a 13-store development deal to bring a health rice bowl chain to the Central Valley.

The deal was signed by franchises Harsimran “Sim” Nagra and Jerry Bajwa with the Ontario-based Bajwa Group of Companies, which currently owns and operates 19 other WaBa Grill locations throughout Southern California.

Founded in 2006, WaBa Grill serves rice bowls, plates and salads prepared with fresh vegetables, healthy grains and high-quality proteins — all prepared to order on an open-fire grill, according to a news release. It has around 200 locations across the country.

 

With the deal, the Bajwa Group of Companies has the exclusive rights to develop WaBa Grill locations north of Bakersfield through Fresno, introducing the brand to new markets including Visalia and Tulare, according to the release.

“In recent years, Central California has transformed into a booming area with limitless opportunities for growth, which caught our attention as we evaluated regional markets throughout the west that made sense to expand WaBa Grill,” said Jerry Bajwa. “We are very eager to introduce WaBa Grill to the greater Fresno area, and we are confident that Central California locals will appreciate the access to delicious, high-quality, healthy options.”

Based in City of Industry in eastern Los Angeles County, WaBa Grill reported its top-performing sales quarter in Q2 2021 — with total store sales of exceeding $40 million in the quarter for the first time.

“We are thrilled to continue to introduce WaBa Grill to new guests alongside experienced and passionate business leaders like the team at The Bajwa Group, whose considerable commitment and vision allow us to deliver on our principle that healthy food made with fresh, quality ingredients should be delicious and accessible to all,” said Vivian Mendoza, Director of Marketing at WaBa Grill. “As we near 200 locations open, our valued franchise partners continue to fuel our expansion efforts, and we are excited to be an attractive business opportunity for potential new restaurateurs who see tremendous value in meeting consumers’ growing demand for better-for-you dining options at grab-and-go speed.”