Operations

Smoothie King sales surge in Q4

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January 10, 2022

Despite a turbulent time for the restaurant industry, Smoothie King, which has 1,300 global locations, reported a 16.5% sales increase year-over-year domestically and opened 109 stores in 2021. The brand's resilience in the face of historic economic upheaval continues to set the industry standard for pandemic-proof investment opportunities for entrepreneurs, said Wan Kim, CEO and chairman of the Board of Smoothie King.

"Despite what is still in many ways an unsteady economy, there's never been a better time to become a part of the Smoothie King family than now," he said in a company press release. "The brand has demonstrated nothing but growth and resilience in the face of economic upheavals and disruptions these past 20 months, with the average franchisee amassing net profits higher than the company has ever seen. Pandemonium and uncertainty aside, Smoothie King has continued to inspire millions to live a healthy and active lifestyle, and this past year goes to prove that."

The brand saw significant payoff in measures it began incorporating last year to boost digital sales for the franchise. The healthy rewards app, online ordering for pickup and delivery, and the use of tablet devices to ease the in-person ordering experience were instrumental in boosting net profits and generating multiple revenue streams for the company, Kim said.

Of the 196 store commitments, 63% came from existing franchisees looking to grow across the country.

The company plans to attract 70 franchisees and sign 200 total store commitments in 2022.