Island Fin Poké Co. has been making waves in the food industry since 2016, by selling delicious, Hawaiian-inspired poké bowls and providing remarkable service to all of its guests. But its impact expands far beyond the kitchen. By Shelby Green
Island Fin Poké Co. has been making waves in the food industry since 2016, by selling delicious, Hawaiian-inspired poké bowls and providing remarkable service to all of its guests. But its impact expands far beyond the kitchen.
Each location hangs a sign that reads “No friends, just family. O’hana.” This sign signifies the company’s commitment to treating everyone like family and making a difference in each community it serves.
The company has had a strong family foundation from the beginning. President and CEO Mark Setterington and both of his daughters are heavily involved in the franchise, all working together in different roles, from taste-testing the food and developing the menu to supporting and training franchisees.
Island Fin Poké Co. has since expanded its family through franchising. There are currently 28 locations across the U.S., and there are plans to open up to five more locations by the end of the year. All franchisees are a part of the Island Fin Poké Co. family from their first day and are given all the tools they need to succeed.
“The franchisees are not just a royalty stream. No one wants these people to be successful more than I do,” said Setterington. “When they’re having a rough time it’s personal to me because that’s how much they mean to me. Many of these people have invested their life savings into Island Fin Poké. We do everything we can to help ensure they’re happy and making the best possible decision. That’s important to not just me, but everyone on our team.”
All franchisees receive hands-on support from the moment they join the Island Fin Poké Co. family. Not only do franchisees receive comprehensive training, but they’re given the phone numbers of all team members working in the company’s corporate division. This ensures franchisees have access to 24/7 support and allows them to quickly address any problems they may have.
One quality the company looks for when evaluating potential franchisees is community involvement. Prospective franchisees must want to make a difference in their community and be passionate about what they do in order to be successful.
“The franchisees who are out in their community or creating community are successful,” said Setterington. “Next to my family, I love Island Fin Poké more than anything. If you want to be proud of what you’re doing and impact your community, we’re the company for you. We’re not just selling poké bowls, we’re making a difference. One of my favorite things is the impact we make on people’s lives, from team members to guests.”
Island Fin Poké Co. recently has been supporting relief in Maui after the devastating wildfires, by helping to feed the people who were impacted. The company also hosted a fundraiser where 10% of proceeds received on August 18, 2023, would be donated to relief in Maui. Island Fin Poké Co. has promised to continue to work with organizations to support Maui relief and shines as an example of helping those in need.
Shelby Green