Lviv Croissants set off into the world

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The history of Lviv Croissants began with a small bakery in the center of Lviv. The brand was founded in Ukraine in 2015, offering guests an unusual product: croissants with savory - not sweet - fillings, including fresh vegetables, meat or fish, and sauces. Additionally, the croissants are freshly baked on-site. All dishes are prepared in an open kitchen, allowing guests to observe the preparation process and ensuring that the ingredients are fresh.In 2022, the Lviv Croissants brand entered the international market, with its first location outside Ukraine opening in Poland.

– Our team thoroughly analyzed the market, tastes, and needs of local consumers – says Andrii Halytskyi, founder of Lviv Croissants.

So far, 11 restaurants have opened in Poland in cities such as Warsaw, Wroclaw, Zgorzelec, Gdansk, Rzeszow, and Szczecin, with more planned.

Poland, however, is not the only market where Lviv Croissants aims to expand. Europe remains a key area of focus, and this year, Lviv Croissants also opened locations in Slovakia and the Czech Republic.

– We approach each new country with the same level of commitment – Andrii Halytskyi assures. – In every market, we seek local suppliers to ensure the fillings and flavor combinations are in line with local preferences.

Towards America

This year, Lviv Croissants also took a step beyond Europe. In August, the brand opened its first U.S. location in Roswell, a suburb of Atlanta, Georgia. Like in other countries, the American menu focuses on freshly baked croissants produced in Atlanta, with a dedicated production line set up for this purpose.

– Nearly two years ago, we chose the path of international expansion, and we weren't wrong – says Andrii Halytskyi. – Entering the U.S. market was lengthy and challenging, given its radical differences from the European market. But we certainly won’t stop at one location there. We’re already negotiating with potential franchisees.

Currently, the Lviv Croissants network operates a total of 178 locations across Ukraine, Poland, Slovakia, the Czech Republic, and the U.S. According to Forbes' 2023 rankings, Lviv Croissants holds the top spot in Ukraine in terms of the number of restaurants.

Author

Michal Wisniewski

Franchise consultant