Franchising

Pandemic won't stop Main Squeeze from expanding

Provided

November 20, 2020

Despite the pandemic, New Orleans-based Main Squeeze Juice Co. is capping a year of record growth.

The juice and smoothie bar franchise, whose ownership group includes New Orleans Saints punter Thomas Morstead and former Saints wide receiver Marques Colston, has maintained a steady development pace since the start of 2020, opening two locations within the past 60 days and scheduled to open four more by the end of the year, according to a press release.

In addition, the company has signed 27 franchise agreements since the beginning of the year, bringing its growth pipeline to more than 60 stores throughout six states, including Louisiana, Texas, Florida, Mississippi, Alabama and Tennessee.

"The pandemic has had a major impact on the eating and drinking habits of consumers, and these habits are likely to change permanently once the country moves beyond the impact of the novel coronavirus," Founder and CEO Thomas Nieto said in the release. "We're committed to bringing the absolute best products, made from the highest quality ingredients, in the most sustainable manner, to as many people as possible. We're committed to our customers, employees, franchisees, partners, and local communities to provide value to all involved through healthier and more convenient, healthy eating choices that will improve the lifestyles of others and the overall health of the communities in which we live."

Main Squeeze has 15 locations throughout Louisiana and Texas, nearly three-quarters of which have opened in the past 24 months. Looking ahead to 2021, company plans include opening as many as 10 stores throughout the Southeast and Texas.