News

Raw Jūce expanding via franchising

Provided

January 28, 2020

Raw Jūce, a fast casual concept that offers organic cold-pressed juices, smoothies, acai bowls and other organic foods, has launched a national franchise program. With nine locations operating throughout South Florida, Raw Jūce is poised for significant growth due to its strong unit economics, including $1,529,000 average unit volume and high-quality, all-natural products that are all 100% organic and non-pasteurized, according to a company press release.

Barry Rabkin created the first Florida-based brand in 2013, after he was diagnosed with thyroid cancer and went through a year of treatment in 2009. He found himself weak and depleted of energy but after being introduced to organic foods and juicing, he felt healthier. As he made this a part of his daily routine, it became his mission to showcase the amazing benefits of raw juice, so he partnered with franchising veteran Jeff Levine, former CEO and founder of Salad Creations, to launch Raw Jūce in 2013.

"Raw Jūce is not just a juice bar, it's truly an experience and a lifestyle," Rabkin said. "Since we first opened our doors in 2013, we've received remarkable support from our local communities, and we could not be more excited to introduce the Raw lifestyle to guests all over the country. This is only the beginning."

The brand also owns its own organic produce company, Fresh Harvest Organics, and is trying to establish a truly unique "farm-to-bottle" supply chain.

"The plant-based movement is one of the highest growing industries today, with plant-based food sales increasing 31% since 2017," Levine said in the release. "With our commitment to smart growth and partnering with the right franchisees, Raw Jūce is poised for explosive growth. This is a unique investment opportunity, and our franchise partners will benefit greatly by leveraging our proven business model and resources."

Raw Jūce is seeking experienced multi-unit operators to develop franchise territories in markets throughout Houston, Dallas, Charlotte, North Carolina, Nashville, Tennessee and Atlanta.  Qualified franchisees should have a net worth of at least $1.5 million and liquidity of at least $500,000, according to the release.

In 2019, Accelerated Franchised Concepts closed on a minority investment into Raw Jūce, as part of a majority recapitalization of  plant-based concept. AFC is an affiliate of AP Franchised Concepts Llc., led by Anthony Polazzi.