Smoothie King ramps up store expansion
Smoothie King is poised for nationwide expansion in both new and existing markets.
The quick-service smoothie brand signed franchise and area development agreements in 2022 to add more than 160 stores to new and existing markets. With franchise development leading the way, Smoothie King is forecasted to open more than 100 locations in 2023
The company noted that more than half of the signed agreements are with existing franchisees, who helped contribute to the company's $618 million in systemwide sales and remain a driving force behind Smoothie King's expansion.
In addition to bolstering its development pipeline, Smoothie King opened 77 new stores in 2022 in key target markets, including Albany, New York; Cleveland, Ohio, and Washington, D.C.
"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,” said Wan Kim, CEO and chairman. "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."
Smoothie King offers a variety of prototypes for franchisees to consider when building out their portfolio, including a new drive-thru-only prototype launched in 2022. The design stands at approximately 800 sq. ft. and features a traditional drive-thru lane on one side of the building, with a lane dedicated to online ordering and third-party delivery on the other. It also features a front-facing pickup window that allows customers to have their customized smoothie hand-delivered.
"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," said Chris Bremer, chief development officer. "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."
In November, Smoothie King announced three new C-suite appointments, which included naming former Yum! Brands executive Marianne Radley as chief marketing officer.
Smoothie King Franchises has more than 1,400 locations worldwide, including in the United States, Korea, Grand Cayman, and Trinidad.