A healthy-meal franchise on Peachtree Parkway that struggled to find customers after opening in September 2024 is now filling 50 to 100 orders a day, and its owner says the Johns Creek Chamber of Commerce made the difference.

Yao Peng, a Johns Creek mother and former senior human resources technology consultant who left Union Pacific Railroad Co. to open Clean Eatz at 3630 Peachtree Parkway, told the Johns Creek Herald that getting the word out was a struggle in a city packed with dining options.

Peng turned to the Chamber for help.

Richard Brooks, the Chamber's management consultant, sat down with her, analyzed her operations and built a visibility plan. The Chamber then introduced Peng to contact lens manufacturer Alcon and medical device maker Boston Scientific, both of which began ordering Clean Eatz meals for company events. Emory Johns Creek Hospital added the restaurant's meals to its cafeteria.

The Chamber also hosted an after-hours networking social at Clean Eatz that brought roughly 50 members through the door to sample the menu. A second Business After Hours event took place at the restaurant on July 16 as part of the Chamber's 20th anniversary celebration.

Clean Eatz was among the businesses recognized at the Chamber's Golf Classic on June 22 at St. Ives Country Club for contributions to the community.

Brooks said the warm introductions matter in a competitive market.

"It's still about who you know a lot of the time," Brooks told the Herald. "Having someone open the door for you and make that warm introduction can make all the difference."

Peng moved to Georgia in 2017 and researched franchise concepts before settling on Clean Eatz, a national chain with dozens of locations. The restaurant rotates its menu weekly, offering wraps, bowls and dishes built around lean proteins. Every meal is labeled with calorie and macronutrient counts.

The shop has built a loyal following. Johns Creek Police Department officers have become regulars, using the nutrient-balanced meals to support their weightlifting programs. Peng said one customer reported losing about 100 pounds while incorporating Clean Eatz meals into her diet.

The Chamber's next major event is its State of the Chamber luncheon, scheduled for Wednesday, August 5, at YiFan Event Center.