Franchising

900th Tropical Smoothie opens on military base

Provided

November 17, 2020

Atlanta-based Tropical Smoothie Cafe has opened its 900th cafe. Located at 7280 Ingersoll Street on the Fort Benning military base in Georgia and owned by existing franchisees, Reginald and Zenna Foster. The location marks the brand's fourth in partnership with the U.S. Army and Air Force Exchange Service and was also supported by the International Franchise Association Foundation's VetFran Program, which provides financial incentives to qualified veterans to open franchises, according to a company press release.

"As longtime supporters of the IFA Foundation's VetFran program, it is particularly fitting that veteran franchisees are opening this milestone location on a military base," Robert Cresanti, IFA president and CEO, said in the release. " IFA sends its wishes for continued success for the brand and its franchisees as Tropical Smoothie Cafe continues its growth."

In 2015, six months after he retired from the service, Reginald Foster worked with Zenna to open their first Tropical Smoothie Cafe in Augusta, Georgia. In April 2019, the Fosters opened the brand's first military base in Fort Gordon, Georgia, where Reginald previously was based. Today, the husband-and-wife team owns five cafes and has two more in development.

"Fifteen years into my career with the Army, I knew that when I retired, I wanted to invest in a franchise. Once we discovered Tropical Smoothie Cafe and learned about the better-for-you menu options and their incredible corporate team and franchisee network, we knew it was the perfect fit," said Reginald. "Fast forward to today and we've truly come full circle as we help this remarkable brand celebrate such a meaningful milestone with our opening on the Fort Benning military base. We are honored to have this opportunity and look forward to serving the local community."

Tropical Smoothie Cafe has franchise opportunities in markets throughout the U.S. Interested candidates should have business experience, along with a minimum net worth of $350,000, which includes $125,000 in liquid assets. Candidates who meet these preliminary qualifications will need to make an initial investment ranging between $198,500 and $543,500. The franchise boasts an average unit volume of more than $768,000 — the highest in the company's 22-year-history — with the top 50% reporting an AUV of more than $982,000, according to CEO Charles Watson.

"It's inspiring to be part of the growth that Tropical Smoothie Cafe has accomplished this year despite the hit the restaurant industry and economy took," he said in the release. "Our franchisees have always been exceptional, but over the course of 2020 they've continued to show us their unstoppable dedication and passion for the brand, our product, and the communities they serve. We're excited and honored to celebrate our 900th opening in Fort Benning, a home to our nation's military. I'm grateful to be a part of this brand and am optimistic for the future ahead."