TORONTO, Feb 12 — The rapid, international expansion of quick-service salad chains marks an emerging consumer demand for healthy, affordable fare and bolsters new market survey results which found that soup and salad categories on restaurant menus have become increasingly popular.

In a survey of 1,500 consumers in the US, market research group Technomic found that nearly half of consumers said they now order salad all, or most of the time with their meal, compared to 34 per cent two years ago.

Soup has also become increasingly popular as an appetizer or meal, as 61 per cent said they order a bowl ‘at least occasionally’ during restaurant visits. That’s up 52 per cent from two years ago as well, said the report released this week.

After analysing their own MenuMonitor database of 500 US restaurants, Technomic found that chicken-topped salads were the most popular mains salad of choice, followed by Caesar salads.

Meanwhile, last month the first and largest salad franchise in the US, Saladworks, announced ambitious expansion plans that will take the brand into Singapore. The first international outpost is set to open this year, with plans for two more locations in 2013.

The company plans to open 25 more stores in the US this year after experiencing a 15 per cent increase in sales in the fourth quarter.

Canadian company Freshii has likewise enjoyed wild success after opening the first location in Toronto in 2005.

The quick-service restaurants allow customers to build their own salad, wrap, or burrito from a well-stocked salad counter that includes edamame, roasted peppers, buffalo or teriyaki chicken and mangos.

Since then, the brand has been exported to cities like Dubai, Vienna, New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, Washington DC, and several more locations across Canada. — AFP-Relaxnews