News

Emerald City Smoothie to open first international locale

February 24, 2011

With more than 60 locations operating across the United States, Emerald City Smoothie is embarking on its first international journey with a new-store opening in San Jose del Cabo, Mexico.

Emerald City Smoothie has awarded its first international franchise location in Mexico to Gene Hensley and Ben Salomon. Hensley brings with him more than 20 years of experience in the global travel and tourism industry where he was the executive vice president of Trendwest Resorts and president of Worldmark board of directors.

“Our success over the 15 years has provided us with the opportunity to take our concept outside of the United States. We are thrilled to have both Gene and Ben on board to open our first location in Mexico as Gene has been a long time partner with Emerald City Smoothie,” said Al Schriber, member manager of Emerald City Smoothie. “Their entrepreneurial backgrounds and passion for the brand make us confident that they will be successful in building a strong presence for Emerald City Smoothie in Mexico.”

The 400-square-foot location will feature a rooftop garden with solar panels that will be utilized for energy conservation. To assist in watering the garden plants, water from the store will be re-directed to the garden instead of the gutters.

“Our store in Mexico will present customers with the ability to choose from over 40 different kinds of fresh smoothies along with on-the-go meal alternatives and nutritional supplements,” Hensley said. “In a community that focuses on maintaining active lifestyles, we will be able to help consumers reinforce an exercise regimen or health goals.”

To celebrate the opening of the new store, Emerald City Smoothie will host a grand opening party in the parking lot of their shopping center. The event will include a local band and proceeds from the food and drink sold during the party will be donated to Casa Hogar, an orphanage that provides shelter for more than 40 boys, and Amigos de los niños, a non-profit organization that provides pediatric services and prenatal care for mothers at no cost.