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For Immediate Release:
March 18, 2008

VAPIANO IS SBA APPROVED

Washington, D.C. March 18 2008—Vapiano, named the “Future of Fresh Casual” by Foodservice Europe, is the most recent addition to The Franchise Registry, a listing of approved Small Business Administration (SBA) companies.

According to the SBA website, The Franchise Registry is a good example of helping small businesses owners through cooperation between government and industry. The dedicated efforts of SBA employees, franchisees, franchisors, and lenders have led to streamlined eligibility guidelines and operating procedures that will reduce costs and processing time and help SBA serve its customers better.  The Registry lists names of franchise companies whose franchisees enjoy the benefits of a streamlined review process for SBA loan applications.

“Vapiano has seen tremendous expansion worldwide and specifically here in the United States,” says Kent Hahne, Vapiano President. “Now that we are SBA approved I know that we will be even more attractive to prospective franchisees.”

Vapiano restaurants can be found throughout Germany, in key European markets such as Zurich, Vienna, Istanbul, Budapest and now the United States. Vapiano has already opened three corporately owned restaurants in the greater Washington, D.C. area and plans to open three additional corporately owned restaurants in the same area over the next few years.

In addition to D.C., Vapiano has franchised units in development across the United States in cities such as Dallas, Texas, Ft. Meyers, Florida and Boston, Massachusetts and continues to target key markets such as Las Vegas, Miami, Chicago and New York for corporate expansion.

About Vapiano:

Vapiano, the European hot spot specializing in fresh casual Italian food, was established in Germany five years ago. The restaurant became such an instant success due to its innovative self service technology and unmistakable upscale décor that the company quickly began to expand throughout the world. Restaurants are 5,000-8,000 square feet and seats 150 or so guests.