Smoothie King is set to open 100 new stores in 24 states in 2023.
The Dallas-based company, which is already the world’s largest smoothie brand, is pursuing an aggressive growth strategy, announcing it has signed franchise and area agreements to add 160 stores to new and existing markets, according to Dallas Business Journal.
“Over the last few years, we’ve seen an increased demand for healthier food options across the QSR segment and this trend had a positive impact on the brand’s growth. With deals signed in 24 states in 2022, we couldn’t be more excited to extend the reach of Smoothie King’s purpose-driven menu and be an instrumental part of our guests’ health and wellness journey,” Wan Kim, chairman and CEO of Smoothie King, said in a press release.
“As we expand our footprint, we will continue to make our brand’s products even more accessible and will work hard to drive profitability for franchisees in all markets,” Kim continued.
Smoothie King opened 77 stores in 2022, including locations in Cleveland, Washington, D.C., and Albany, New York, where the company plans to open 10 new stores in the next three years. The brand delivered $618 million in sales last year, according to QSR Magazine.
The company introduced a new drive-thru-only store that it will be offering to potential franchisees. This prototype is 800 square feet and features a lane for the drive-thru, a lane for online orders, and a pickup window in the front of the store, according to Dallas Business Journal.
“With the launch of our Drive-Thru Only prototype, we have been able to provide prospective and existing franchisees with an investment opportunity that elevates the off-premise customer experience, while also enhancing the operation,” Chris Bremer, chief development officer of Smoothie King, said.
“This addition to our real estate offerings will help fuel our nationwide expansion going forward as we maintain our vision to be an integral part of every health and fitness journey.”
The press release noted that Smoothie King had recently been ranked No.17 in Entrepreneur’s “2023 Franchise 500 Ranking,” coming in just after KFC, McDonald’s, and Wendy’s.
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