iLunch expands from Vilnius

iLunch is a Lithuanian restaurant chain specializing in fast-casual lunch dining based on a tech-enabled service model. The concept allows guests to select and pay for meals via tablets, with food delivered within two minutes on a conveyor system. The menu, which includes soups, salads and main courses, changes daily and is prepared with fresh ingredients. iLunch operates 23 company-owned locations in Vilnius and 8 franchise outlets in cities such as Kaunas, Šiauliai, Palanga and Riga. International expansion has begun, with plans to enter the UAE, the UK, the USA and Ireland.

How to join and what it costs

The franchise is available to candidates with access to a location in a high-traffic area, preferably a business district with a minimum of 500–1,000 employees nearby. A site with 200–300 square meters is required. The total investment ranges from €200,000 to €300,000, including a one-time franchise fee of €30,000 plus VAT. The initial setup costs cover kitchen equipment (€100,000–€120,000), furniture (€50,000), IT equipment (€10,000–€20,000) and construction works (€300–€350 per square meter). The ongoing royalty fee is 6% of gross turnover. There are no additional advertising fees specified. Franchisees receive full support from the franchisor, including interior design planning, supply chain setup, recipes, technology implementation, marketing, HR and accounting assistance, as well as staff training during launch.

Expectations, revenues and plans for Poland

iLunch expects each restaurant to serve hundreds of customers daily, with average receipt values of €6–7 on-site and €12.5–15 for takeaway orders. The company estimates a return on investment within 12 to 36 months, depending on location and operational efficiency. Profit margins can reach up to 20%. Franchisees are responsible for hiring and managing staff, maintaining operational quality, and complying with the brand’s standards. Although international growth is currently focused on the UAE, the USA, the UK and Ireland, no official plans have been announced for entry into Poland. However, the company accepts inquiries from international candidates and may consider other markets as part of its ongoing expansion strategy.