Franchising

Smoothie King targeting Philadelphia

Provided

May 5, 2021

With 15 locations operating in the Philadelphia area, Dallas-based Smoothie King is targeting the market for even greater development. Although it has six units under construction there, the brand is seeking franchisees to help it extend its reach.

"We believe Philadelphia is a perfect place to expand our franchise for a couple reasons," Kevin King, chief development officer, said in a company press release. "One, prospective owners have the opportunity to be one of the first to break into this great city and suburban market. Additionally, there's a large demographic of people here who want convenient, safe and healthy meal-replacement options to fuel their healthy and active lifestyles but don't have a place they can go to. Smoothie King is that place, and in partnership with the right candidates, we can accomplish great things in Philadelphia for years to come."

Four N.J. locations in close proximity to Philadelphia belong to multi-unit franchisee Humza Tanvir.

A former computer software consultant, Tanvir was an avid Smoothie King goer before signing a development deal in 2019 to build eight stores, six of which are already open.

"I'm passionate about this brand and what it stands for," Tanvir said in the release. "Even after everything that happened last year, more and more people are prioritizing their health and wellness, and Smoothie King can fuel those lifestyles no matter what your goals are. The communities in which we have locations are doing very well, and that's a testament to the purpose of the brand, the nutritious product line and the outstanding systems and support from Smoothie King corporate. I couldn't be happier to be a part of this franchise family."

Since 2020, Smoothie King has implemented online ordering, delivery and curbside pickup, which helped it close out the second half of last year with 12.2% sales growth year-over-year and continued the momentum in Q1 of 2021, reporting 18% same-store sales growth. Additionally, digital sales now make up more than one-fifth of the franchise's total revenue after accounting for 0% last February.

Smoothie King opened 263 units last year and is aiming to top that number by year's end. It has over 1,300 locations worldwide.