News

Maui Wowi targeting Texas

January 28, 2014

Maui Wowi is using Texas to kick off expansion efforts and will exhibit next week at the International Franchise Association's Franchise Expo South in Houston.

Rob and Jean McLean, Houston franchisees and recently named directors of regional support, will spearhead franchise development expansion in the market. The company is currently seeking new franchise partners throughout the Houston area to add brick-and-mortar locations or mobile units, according to a company press release.

"As newly minted members of the franchise support team in Houston, we're looking forward to connecting with potential franchisees at the expo and introducing them to the 'Aloha Spirit' and flexible business models that Maui Wowi offers," Jean McLean said. "Sharing our franchise insight and personal experiences with the company at the expo will be a catalyst for further development in Houston and on a larger scale throughout Texas."

The McLeans said they bring experience from record-setting sales using their mobile cart business at Reliant Stadium. To date, the 2013 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo was their biggest event. Eight Maui Wowi mobile carts sold thousands of smoothies during the 21-day event, they said.

"We did a good portion of our sales for the whole year in just those three weeks," Jean McLean said. "It was wild."

Justin Livingston, VP of Business Development at Maui Wowi, and Adam Benshoof, Development Manager, will be at the expo to discuss the franchise opportunity with attendees.

"After successful events year after year at Reliant Park and throughout Texas, buzz is beginning to build about Maui Wowi in the market," Livingston said. "There's a huge demand for healthy beverage options in Houston — especially at heavily attended events — and we're eager to partner with entrepreneurs involved in the community who want a fun, rewarding and flexible career."

To augment the company's growth, Maui Wowi is seeking passionate franchisees with the resources and capacity to create and manage a first-of-its kind franchise investment opportunity in the fast casual or event business, according to the release. Maui Wowi offers four business models for prospective franchisees interested in a low-cost start up with scalability potential, including Ka'anapali mobile carts, catering units, kiosks and brick and mortar stores. Depending on the format, start-up costs range between $75,000 and $300,000.

Currently, Maui Wowi operates 48 units across Texas; three franchisees are in Houston, four in Dallas, two in Austin and others in Wimberley, Kerrville, College Station, San Antonio, Odessa, Little Elm, Lake Jackson and Celina.

The development in the Houston area and throughout Texas is part of the 450-unit brand's overall growth strategy to open 50 units throughout the U.S. in 2014, according to the release.

Read more about growth.