Founded in 2018 by Fen and Raymond Reyes, Uncle Sharkii Poke Bar has emerged as one of the fastest-growing QSR (Quick Service Restaurant) poke franchises in the U.S. Driven by the brand’s core values of food, family, simplicity, and an authentic Hawaiian spirit, Uncle Sharkii has rapidly expanded its footprint—becoming a compelling franchise opportunity and a model of healthy, efficient growth. This article explores the franchise system, its impressive growth trajectory, success factors, and what makes Uncle Sharkii an appealing investment for aspiring franchisees.
The “Uncle Sharkii” origin story is deeply personal and heartwarming: Fen’s daughter, Melody, bonded with her uncle over snacks and boba after receiving a shark plush toy. Inspired by this moment and Raymond’s Hawaiian upbringing, the brand was built on family connections and simple, joyful experiences around nutritious food.
Key brand pillars include:
With a colorful mascot, streamlined branding, and heartfelt messaging, Uncle Sharkii demonstrates how authentic storytelling connects with both customers and franchise partners.
Since launching its franchise program in late 2019, Uncle Sharkii has:
Notably, Utah-based franchisees Bruno and Jessica Picelli received the 2024 Multi-Unit Mastery Award for excellence across five locations.
Uncle Sharkii’s Walmart in-store concept launched with three test units in California (Galt, Roseville, Vacaville), offering high foot traffic and powerful co-branding opportunities. Franchisees benefit from low-cost, prime real estate and access to Walmart’s loyal customer base.
In 2024, Uncle Sharkii was listed among Entrepreneur Magazine’s Top 100 New & Emerging Franchises. Their partnerships with Walmart and Hawaiian Airlines further boost their brand credibility and reach.
With an initial investment range of $75,950–$180,150 (including a $29,900 franchise fee), Uncle Sharkii offers a budget-friendly entry into the QSR space. Its compact footprint and simple kitchen setup allow flexibility across kiosks, mall locations, and full QSR units.
Franchisees benefit from:
Multi-unit owners report excellent support and brand culture, as shared by operators like Bruno & Jessica Picelli.
With Raymond’s Hawaiian roots and Fen’s heartfelt brand vision, Uncle Sharkii maintains a genuine, credible brand identity. Trademarked assets and a strong visual system differentiate the concept in a crowded market.
Bruno and Jessica Picelli won the 2024 award for growing five thriving Utah locations. They cite the brand’s values, quality offerings, and support as key drivers of their success.
Franchisees in Houston, Los Angeles, and Salt Lake City are embracing multi-unit deals to boost brand visibility and operational efficiency within strategic territories.
With its compelling brand story, scalable model, and strong operational framework, Uncle Sharkii Poke Bar is rapidly emerging as a top choice in the fast-casual franchising space. A 109% year-over-year growth, strategic partnerships, and award-winning franchisees all speak to the system’s strength and sustainability.
For those seeking a vibrant, family-driven concept in the booming health food market, Uncle Sharkii offers the rare combination of authenticity, support, and profitability.
Learn more about franchising a poke restaurant: Contact Franchise Marketing Systems
FRANCHISE CONSULTANT
Gloucester, Virginia – Kimberly Moody has secured an impressive track record in implementing financial goals for a business base of more than $300 million in assets covering customer service, financial planning, estate planning, banking services, and all aspects of investment management. Additionally, she worked as an Adjunct Instructor for Christopher Newport University, where she taught investment courses to individuals interested in learning more about financial planning. Ms. Moody also has experience as the Co-Host for WVEC Channel 13’s show “Investing 101” and Co-Host of WTKR’s radio station’s financial planning show. She has also held more than 100 public seminars on financial planning topics and was the speaker for National Space Society Conferences for NASA. Ms. Moody intends to use her proven business expertise, natural leadership ability, and personal determination to sell and grow franchise development.
FRANCHISE CONSULTANT - MARKETING & SALES
New York, NY – Paul has 25+ years experienced in business development management and direct sales with Blue-Chip companies – CA, ADP, Pitney Bowes and National accounts such as Deutsche Bank, PepsiCo, Verizon. Received many awards and acknowledgement for sales achievement and success where personally responsible for generating in excess of $100m in revenue. Paul has been married for 34 years with six children. Paul graduated from Northern Michigan University in Marketing and from Marquette with a Bachelor’s Degree in Education.
FRANCHISE CONSULTANT
FRANCHISE CONSULTANT
GRAPHIC DESIGNER & AD STRATEGIST
Kaitlin is a graphic designer and a Facebook™️ ad Strategist. A born creator, her passion for creativity grew as she explored the design and artistic side of marketing. She has a special focus on presentation and visual design and is insanely curious about learning new skills to continuously improve her portfolio.
Tackling everything from Brochure design to Landing Pages and everything in between, she is always excited to grow her clients’ brands into something beautiful. When she isn’t working, her creative roots are always showing. Her love for Marketing and design go beyond the desk, her creative juices flow in the kitchen and in the garden. She also loves nature and all animals big and small but what she really loves is making her clients happy.
VIRTUAL DESIGNER
Augusta, GA – Noah is a designer for FMS. He has been designing for 4 years and has a wide range of skills when it comes to designing. Noah has a passion for communicating visually and creating visually successful brands. He loves creating for a wide range of clients and strives to fulfill their needs in design.
