WHO ARE WE?
FORKO is led by our co-founders, James and Arti.
James and Arti are a dynamic duo who just can't get enough of the hospitality scene! They've been in this game for over a decade and their passion really shines through. These two boys became men through the years, and although they come from different cultural backgrounds they found common ground through their love for all things hospitality. They’ve shared their ups and downs, learned loads from each other, and created memories that make their journey even more special. Now they want to create these special memories with other up and coming businesses and join on the journey to success of others!
However, like many fairytales go, their passion for F&B started long before their FORKO journey started, and in a land FAR FAR AWAY!
James, our co-founder, spent his early and teenage years in Thailand, where, from the tender age of eight, his mother put him to work in all seven of her noodle bar restaurants. While some might label it child labor, his mother affectionately referred to it as “up-skilling.” It was during this pivotal period that James cultivated his passion for food and the restaurant industry. Over the ensuing years, he dedicated himself to exploring the beauty and intricacies of Southeast Asian cuisine, laying the groundwork for his future career.
Transitioning from Thailand to England, James embarked on his culinary journey as a chef in a newly opened Thai restaurant near London Bridge. Juggling university studies with work, he realized his aspiration lay in the culinary arts. His determined ascent culminated in his promotion to Head Chef, after which he delved into management, ultimately becoming the general manager. In this capacity, he played a pivotal role in launching a second location, before moving on to a prominent global QSR brand. There, he expertly managed the UK flagship, which ranked as the seventh busiest out of 450 stores worldwide for the brand, reinforcing his reputation as a leader in the industry.
James’ true strength lies not solely in his unwavering passion for food, nor in his extensive knowledge of operations and the intricate management of multi-million dollar businesses. Instead, his greatest asset is found in his remarkable willingness to continuously learn, challenge himself in new and innovative ways, and seek a deep understanding of the underlying reasons why things work as they do.
Arti, our co-founder, spent his early and teenage years in Chișinău, Moldova, where he explored multiple industries - starting in construction, moving into logistics, and eventually finding his stride in hospitality, where he developed a deep appreciation for service and people. Each step shaped his strong work ethic and entrepreneurial mindset. This early start laid the foundation for his later successful career in the hospitality sector, where he places people as number one priority - knowing it’s not only what others can do for him, but what he can do for others.
Transitioning from Moldova to England, in a remarkable journey that highlights his dedication and ambition, Arti became the youngest individual to rise through the ranks in a global QSR brand. In just six short months, he transitioned from a team member to a supervisor, and then to an assistant general manager, demonstrating not just his commitment to excellence but his ability to inspire and lead others. This rapid ascent stands as a testament to his innovative approach and his deep understanding of operational efficiency, customer service, and team empowerment.
Arti believes that true leadership is about cultivating talent and fostering an environment where everyone can shine. By prioritizing mentorship and open communication, he empowers team members to take ownership of their roles, driving both personal and professional growth. His journey reflects the essence of FORKO’s mission—transforming the dining experience through exceptional service and a focus on making a meaningful difference in the lives of everyone!
