Since its founding in 1952 as a local dairy, the chain has evolved into a global operator with over 240 locations across 19 states and Japan. CEO Elisia Flores noted that the move into Alberta stems from a strategy to pair the company’s signature hospitality with deep local market knowledge. The menu, famous for dishes like Loco Moco, Chicken Katsu, and SPAM Musubi, will now introduce its distinct Hawaiian comfort food to a northern audience for the first time.
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L&L Hawaiian Barbecue Targets Canada for First International Expansion
Edmonton will host the first Canadian location of L&L Hawaiian Barbecue in 2027, marking the iconic plate-lunch brand's inaugural move beyond the U.S. border. The expansion is backed by a five-unit franchise agreement with Edmonton Ice District Ltd., signaling a new phase for the Honolulu-based restaurant concept.
The brand has maintained a consistent growth trajectory, securing the top spot in the Asian food category of Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500 annually since 2017. Following the Alberta launch, the company plans to continue its aggressive recruitment of franchise partners across western U.S. states, including California, Colorado, and Utah. This latest deal serves as a stress test for the brand’s ability to export its island-inspired business model into new international territories.
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