Japanese fast-casual restaurant chain Pepper Lunch has entered a franchise development agreement with the Carl L Karcher Group in the US.

The deal encompasses the launch of 20 new Pepper Lunch US outlets across Southern California and Las Vegas, in strategic locations such as South San Diego County, the Inland Empire and the High and Low Deserts.

Founded in 1994, Pepper Lunch is a native franchise restaurant brand and has more than 500 outlets in 15 countries.

Pepper Lunch CEO Troy Hooper said: “We are honoured and humbled that an operator with such a legacy of success and experience is joining us as a franchise partner.

“Their 20-store commitment across a wide territory speaks to their belief in Pepper Lunch as a strong opportunity in various markets as well.”

The Carl L Karcher Group's experience as both a franchisor and a franchisee is expected to be instrumental in the successful roll-out of Pepper Lunch's locations.

The group currently manages 127 units across three different brands: 75 Carl’s Jr locations, 45 Jamba Juice locations and seven Dave’s Hot Chicken restaurants.

Carl L Karcher stated: “The simplicity of the operation, the labour model and the rise of Asian culture and food concepts in America are attractive and differentiated from other brands we could operate.”

Pepper Lunch is the fourth brand within the Carl L Karcher Group’s restaurant portfolio.

In August 2024, Pepper Lunch revealed plans for the expansion of its presence in the US with five new locations in Southern California.