The wellness movement is still a dominant force. Last year the Vegetarian Resource Group conducted a survey that revealed 45% of Americans eat either a vegetarian or vegan meal on occasion, and a separate survey done by a research team from Kansas State and Oklahoma State found that the vegetarian demographic tends to be younger-aged, single and highly educated.
However, even with a rise in the population committed to a healthy lifestyle, the vegetarian/vegan demographic still wants the sensation of indulging without compromising their dietary preferences. Although there are already tried and true vegetarian/vegan brands well known in the country, such as Veggie Grill and Cinnaholic, there are also newcomers on the verge of major expansion, such as Floozie Cookies and Nomoo Burgers.
Floozie Cookies is a vegan bakery shop that serves up stuffed cookies in such countries as the U.K., Egypt, United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. In March the brand announced a partnership with TGP International that will expand locations into the United States, beginning with Southern California. Although the cookies are baked without dairy or eggs, they are still deceptively delicious, with flavors such as pecan pie or chocolate chunk.
As for Nomoo, the plant-based eatery with a single location in West Hollywood, Calif., the brand is expected to kick start its expansion later this year. The eatery has plans to open units throughout all regions of the country beginning with the West Coast, specifically Orange County, Calif. Nomoo signed up with the franchise management company, Fransmart, last year, the same team behind the success of such brands as The Halal Guys and Ike’s Sandwiches. The vegan restaurant creates meatless options that mimic well-known diner staples, such as cheeseburgers, chicken sandwiches, tacos and wings.
