Influx

There are a number of companies trying to specialize in various elements of healthier fast foods, from Jamba with smoothies, to wraps from World Wrapps, but no one is bringing it all together under a broad cohesive concept.

Kauai is a small South African chain appears to have got it right. Kauai uses Pacific imagery as a backdrop for its retail stores that are nicer versions of familiar fast food stores, complete with menu meal systems that come directly from that world.

The big difference is that Kauai is focused on providing naturally healthy food with menu items that include smoothies, salads and wraps.

The chain is still pretty small, but is already starting to form some interesting partnerships; one is with the Virgin Active health club chain, where they provide a store-within-store concept.

It seems the US is crying out for an idea like Kauai.