Così Introduces Market Partner Program, Offering a New Licensing Model for Local Foodservice Operators

Così Introduces Market Partner Program, Offering a New Licensing Model for Local Foodservice Operators

PR Newswire

SPRINGFIELD, N.J., Sept. 14, 2026

SPRINGFIELD, N.J., Sept. 14, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Così Restaurant Holdings, LLC has introduced the Così Market Partner Program, a licensing initiative that enables established foodservice businesses to offer Così catering without opening a traditional Così restaurant.

The program allows qualified operators to prepare and sell Così's catering menu from their existing licensed commercial kitchens while continuing to operate under their own name and identity. The model is designed for independent caterers, cafés, delis, restaurants and other commercial kitchen operators seeking to expand their catering offerings through an additional brand.

Founded in Paris and introduced to the United States more than 35 years ago, Così grew to hundreds of restaurants across the country, particularly throughout the East Coast and Midwest. Today, the company continues to operate restaurants while expanding its catering business through multiple channels.

"The Market Partner Program represents an important step in the continued evolution of the Così brand," said David Polonitza, Executive Vice President of Così. "It creates new opportunities for independent operators while making Così catering available to more communities."

Unlike a traditional franchise, Market Partners integrate Così catering into an operation they already own and manage. Partners prepare Così menu items using the company's recipes, approved ingredients and operating standards while receiving onboarding, operational guidance, marketing resources and ongoing U.S.-based catering support from Così's internal team.

"Many independent operators already have the facilities and expertise needed to support a program like this," said Matthew Porter, Director of Operations for Così. "Our role is to provide the brand standards, operational support and resources that allow them to successfully add Così catering to their existing business."

Several Market Partner locations are currently operating, with New Haven Connecticut opening soon and additional partnerships under development.

Organizations interested in the Così Market Partner Program can contact partners@getcosi.com for additional information.

About Così

Founded in Paris, Così introduced its signature flatbread sandwiches to the United States more than 35 years ago. At its peak, the brand operated hundreds of restaurants nationwide. Today, Così continues to serve guests through its restaurants, catering business and the Così Market Partner Program.

Media Contact:
partners@getcosi.com 

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SOURCE Cosi Restaurant Holdings LLC