How Edible® Franchises Can Thrive in Non-Traditional Locations

Edible®, the modern gifting destination with an online e-commerce hub uniquely supported by hundreds of locally owned brick-and-mortar locations globally, continues to innovate in the franchise space, expanding its footprint into non-traditional locations like airports, college campuses, shopping malls and stadiums. With a focus on grab-and-go options and operational efficiency, these new locations present exciting opportunities for both franchisees and customers.

Last year, Edible announced its forthcoming NextGen store concept, blending the best of digital and physical retail into a new-and-improved store layout. In line with this new model, Edible’s unique real estate strategy capitalizes on its ability to adapt to various environments. As consumer behavior evolves, Edible is meeting demand for convenience, health and speed by strategically placing franchises in high-traffic, non-traditional locations.

These locations are designed to cater to busy travelers, students and shoppers by offering a streamlined menu of grab-and-go items, including boxes of chocolates, fresh-cut fruit, coffee and much more.

“We have a new grab-and-go concept that we are launching — and that is going to be in non-traditional spaces,” said Mark Mele, chief development officer of Edible. “You are going to have Edible locations in airports, pre and post-security, college campuses, etc. Everything is about fast service. They thrive in those locations because it really lends itself to on-the-go service.”

Non-traditional locations also provide a way to optimize operations for owners. “With a non-traditional space, you don’t have to have that big production in the back of the house,” Mele said. “You can save on costs like labor. You can have all these items produced and brought in. It can potentially bring in more profit. And it also gets the brand name out as well.”

But these spaces do more than just improve efficiency — they help Edible connect with customers in new ways. Whether it’s offering a last-minute gift for a traveler or providing a healthy snack in a bustling metro area, non-traditional locations extend the brand’s reach while meeting customer needs. Edible also leverages technology to enhance the customer experience in non-traditional locations, enabling local deliveries and streamlining order fulfillment.

In areas where options are often limited, for example, Edible fills a crucial gap. “It provides a healthy option for customers, where traditionally in those areas it’s harder to find those healthier options,” said Tyler Chomik, real estate manager at Edible.

Plus, the convenience of an Edible location in a non-traditional site — whether it be a stadium, lifestyle center or near a subway — offers additional appeal. “We have a pretty loyal customer base, so being a reputable brand helps when customers are looking for a familiar option on-the-go,” Chomik said. “It is also great for travelers who are thinking of a last-minute gift.”

Overall, by targeting airports, metro areas, college campuses and other high-traffic environments, Edible opens up even more opportunity for prospective franchisees looking to bring a beloved brand to the communities they serve.

For more information on Edible’s franchise opportunities, visit franchise.edible.com.

About Edible®

Founded in 1999, Edible® has revolutionized the gifting industry, uniquely leveraging the synergistic power of an innovative e-commerce hub and locally owned brick-and-mortar locations across the globe. Edible's platform seamlessly blends the convenience of online shopping with a vast retail footprint that services over 70% of U.S. households within an hour. Expanding beyond its iconic fruit arrangements, Edible has a range of offerings, including delectable dessert boards, cookies, brownies, cakes, farm-fresh flowers and more – perfect for every celebratory occasion and any treat-yourself moment. For more information, visit edible.com.