From 1 to 160+ stores: the success story of Italy's first ever poké chain
The Challenge
Born with the ambition of bringing Hawaiian poké to Italy in a modern and accessible way, I Love Poké is now the industry leader with over 160 stores throughout the country. Since the opening of the first five stores in Milan, the challenge has been clear:
- Structure an operational model that is scalable and favours sustainable growth.
- Ensure food safety and compliance with standard procedures shared by both company-owned stores and franchisees.
- Set up a solid document management system that is easy to update and ensures traceability.
- Find solutions to effectively train a rapidly growing workforce.
The Solution
Strategic Approach:
- In-store procedures: We simplified, standardized, and digitized all major procedures, making daily operations smoother, faster, and compliant with the law.
- Centralised laboratory inaugurated in Pioltello (Milan): A 1,500-square-metre fish processing facility designed to ensure consistent quality and microbiological safety as well as simplify operations across stores.
- Comprehensive internal auditing system: Stores are regularly inspected to ensure compliance with procedures and quality standards.
- Comprehensive documentation: We provide each store with a customized HACCP manual and a Risk Assessment Document (RAD), and we update them as soon as needed.
- Staff training: We have devised an effective training program for over 300 employees, focusing on hygiene, food handling, and company standards.
Techniques Implemented
- Unified procedures: A single operating standard ensures consistency and safety for every bowl.
- Centralised fish laboratory: Full control of production cycle: receiving, filleting, dicing, packaging, freezing, and distributing.
- Digitalisation with FoodAssist: Records, certificates, maintenance, and inspections—all managed by a single system that is always accessible and traceable.
- Operational audits: Hygiene and safety checks with detailed checklists and performance indicators.
- On-the-job training: Theoretical and practical sessions in stores, focusing on daily operations, safety, and customer experience.
The Impact of Our Work
Born with the ambition of bringing Hawaiian poké to Italy in a modern and accessible way, I Love Poké is now the industry leader with over 160 stores throughout the country. Since the opening of the first five stores in Milan, the challenge has been clear:
- Structure an operational model that is scalable and favours sustainable growth.
- Ensure food safety and compliance with standard procedures shared by both company-owned stores and franchisees.
- Set up a solid document management system that is easy to update and ensures traceability.
- Find solutions to effectively train a rapidly growing workforce.
The Results
- National expansion: From 5 to over 160 outlets in less than 6 years, thanks to a solid and replicable management structure.
- Consistent control and quality: Regular audits, full control over semi-finished products, and updated documentation help to make sure every customer has access to the same experience and standards all over the chain.
- In-depth training and quality culture: Over 300 staff members trained thoroughly on food safety issues.
- Operational efficiency: The Pioltello laboratory has reduced risks, increased standardisation, and enabled significant economies of scale.
