Franchising
Tropical Smoothie Cafe signs 40-unit Northeast development deal
October 20, 2026
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ClaudeAtlanta-based Tropical Smoothie Cafe has signed a 40-unit franchise development agreement with Aurify Kingstar to expand the brand's presence. .
The agreement calls for locations in Albany, Westchester County and the Bronx in New York, as well as western Connecticut. Aurify Kingstar, led by John Rigos and Andy Stern and headquartered in New York City, plans to open its first location in early 2027.
"New York and Connecticut represent tremendous growth opportunities for Tropical Smoothie Cafe and reflect the potential ahead as we enter our next phase of growth," CEO Max Wetzel said in a press release. "Aurify Kingstar brings the restaurant experience, infrastructure, and proven multi-unit development capabilities we look for in growth partners.
Tropical Smoothie Cafe has more than 1,750 locations nationwide and is on track to reach 1,800 by the end of 2026.
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