A London-based food business specialising in made-to-order salads and protein bowls has experienced rapid growth since its founding in 2021, driven in part by increased demand amid recent heatwaves. The Salad Project was launched by hospitality graduates Florian de Chezelles and James Dare, both 32, who identified a gap in the market for healthy, convenient meals in the city.

Starting from a single site in Spitalfields, the brand now operates 16 locations across London, with 15 offering in-store seating alongside takeaway options. Turnover has risen sharply, from £230,000 during the initial May-September period in 2021 to £18.5 million in 2025, and is projected to reach £35 million in 2026. The company employs over 350 staff members across the capital. Deliveroo accounts for approximately 30% of sales, while 15% originate through the company’s own app.

The founders said that although the Covid-19 pandemic posed significant challenges, it also created unexpected opportunities. In late 2019, the partners quit their jobs to pursue the venture and began scouting more than 80 vacant properties across London. The lockdown-induced closures of many restaurants opened access to prime locations, allowing them to secure their first premises under favourable conditions.

Financing came from multiple sources, including a £25,000 government start-up loan repaid over five years, personal savings, and £50,000 from the Bounce Back Loan Scheme, which has also been repaid. Additional capital was raised through friends and family. The founders credit their complementary strengths—de Chezelles emphasizes endurance and resilience, while Dare contributes creativity and market insight—for their success.

The business prides itself on food quality and consistency, with all ingredients prepared fresh in-house. Their signature dish, named "The Goat," combines goat’s cheese, honey mustard chicken, and roasted walnuts in maple syrup, retailing at £12.95. De Chezelles frequently shops at their outlets to monitor product presentation and standards, sometimes visiting up to 12 times per week.

The Salad Project’s expansion plans include launching a Paris location later this month as part of a broader strategy to enter other European capital cities. The founders advise aspiring entrepreneurs to remain focused and persistent regardless of economic conditions, stating that passion and relentless effort can overcome adversity.

De Chezelles also shared personal lessons learned on financial management, noting that early debt experiences taught him discipline and caution. He maintains a conservative approach to business finances and personal budgeting, reflecting a broader commitment to sustainable growth and operational stability within the company.