Latest news with #SmoothieKing
Axios
a day ago
- Business
- Axios
Starbucks taps into health trends with protein coffee test
LAS VEGAS — Starbucks is tapping into the growing demand for protein-packed drinks as consumers seek to boost their intake for health and wellness. Why it matters: The world's largest coffee chain unveiled Tuesday that it is testing protein in its cold foam as part of its "Back to Starbucks" plan. CEO Brian Niccol is trying to reverse a decline in foot traffic and sales by returning to its roots. The big picture: Protein is hot and having a moment beyond social media influencers sharing order hacks. Restaurant brands like Dutch Bros Coffee and Smoothie King have added more protein to their products to cater to changing consumer appetites. Eating a high-protein diet is important to maintain muscle for people taking appetite-suppressing injectable treatments like Ozempic and Wegovy, research shows. Nearly 18 million Americans are expected to be taking versions of GLP-1 drugs by 2029, according to investment bank UBS. Zoom in: Niccol told Axios in an interview Tuesday that the protein cold foam being tested is for a number of different consumer groups including 20-year-old males, 50-year-old females and people taking GLP-1s. "I was watching people coming to our stores, they would get three shots of espresso over ice," Niccol said. "And in some cases, they pull their own protein powder out of their bag, or in other cases, they have a protein drink, like a Fair Life and they'd pour that into their drink." "I'm like, well, wait a second, we can make this experience better for them," he said. "The good news is now I think we're right on trend, and we can do it I think arguably better than anybody else." Flashback: Starbucks had protein smoothies in the past and launched its Vivanno shakes in 2008. They were discontinued in 2018. The company also launched a protein drink in the U.K. last year. The intrigue: Starbucks said the protein powder should be able to be added to any of its cold foam flavors. What's next: Starbucks is testing protein cold foam in five locations in the U.S. under its Starting Five model.
Entrepreneur
3 days ago
- Business
- Entrepreneur
She Quit Her Job. Now She Makes $1 Million Selling Smoothies.
With nearly $40,000 in first-week sales and $1 million in her first year, DeSario Turner's story is a blueprint for success. DeSario Turner didn't have the classic take-this-job-and-shove-it moment — no dramatic resignation, no sudden business closure. In fact, she had a successful, stable career at Harley-Davidson, where she held a leadership role managing online ecommerce operations across the U.S. and Canada. She could have comfortably stayed in the corporate world indefinitely. But Turner had other plans. She wanted ownership, autonomy and the chance to build something meaningful in her hometown of Racine, Wisconsin. So, in 2023, she opened a Smoothie King franchise and hit the ground running. "I knew that if I wanted the freedom and the life that I desire, just a paycheck wasn't enough for me," she says. Related: Considering franchise ownership? Get started now to find your personalized list of franchises that match your lifestyle, interests and budget. Image Credit: DeSario Turner | Smoothie King Bikes to blenders Turner spent nearly 18 years at Harley-Davidson, serving in various customer-facing roles that ranged from dealership support to managing North American ecommerce. During that time, she also explored several side hustles — from rental properties to vending machines — as part of a larger vision for long-term financial independence. Turner wanted to go all-in on a business that aligned with her values and offered a product she believed in. When she discovered Smoothie King, the concept clicked. It combined health and wellness, community impact and a scalable franchise model — all things she felt passionate about bringing to her hometown. After settling on the brand, she began the franchise application process in late 2021 while still working full-time and juggled both responsibilities for nearly two years. "That's when it really kicked off; it was definitely a busy time," she recalls. "But I had to make it happen." Related: She Was a Lawyer with No Restaurant Experience. Now, She's Reviving an Iconic Restaurant Chain. Record-breaking opening Turner's Smoothie King location in Racine shattered expectations right out of the gate, breaking the franchise's record for first-week sales when it opened in 2023. Despite being in a market unfamiliar with the brand, her store generated more than $38,000 in its opening week and quickly became a go-to destination for health-conscious locals. In addition to building a thriving business, Turner made it a priority to give back. She regularly partners with local schools, gyms and youth programs and donates smoothies for events, supports fundraisers and offers healthful catering options for student-athletes. "She believed in herself, did the work and chose a location that gave her business the best chance to thrive," says Katherine Meariman, VP of training and education at Smoothie King. "She understood from the start that there's no better way to introduce Smoothie King to a new community than through authentic connection." By the end of her first year, Turner's location had already crossed $1 million in net sales — a milestone that placed her store in the top 50 out of more than 1,200 locations in the system. Related: 70 Small Business Ideas to Start in 2025 Building for the future Now, Turner has an eye on the future. Her 19-year-old daughter has stepped into a key leadership role at the store, managing day-to-day operations and learning every aspect of the business firsthand. But this isn't just a job — it's a long-term investment in her future. Turner is intentionally mentoring her daughter to one day take full ownership, passing down not just a business but a blueprint for independence, responsibility and generational wealth. "Ultimately, this is her business," she says. "I'm showing her everything now so she understands what it takes — because it's for her future." And the vision doesn't stop there. With plans to expand and a second location already in the works, Turner is just getting started. Her advice to others considering the jump into business ownership like she did is simple. "Invest that current and energy into yourself and build something for you and your family in the future," she says. "Go for it." Related: I Walked Away From a Corporate Career to Start My Own Small Business — Here's Why You Should Do the Same
Yahoo
03-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Smoothie King Launches New Run-Thru Concept to Celebrate Global Running Day and New Distinction as Official Smoothie of the TCS New York City Marathon
Global Running Day celebrations also include TCS NYC Marathon Bib Giveaway with Strava and free Watermelon Smoothies to refuel at Smoothie King locations nationwide DALLAS, June 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- In celebration of Global Running Day on June 4th, Smoothie King—the world's leading purpose-driven smoothie brand, on a mission to inspire healthy and active lifestyles—is going the extra mile, quite literally. With the unveiling of a multi-faceted initiative featuring a blend of hydration, innovation, and new partnerships, Smoothie King is showing its dedication to holistic health and wellness — and more specifically, the running community, through new strategic partnerships. Smoothie King is now the first-ever Official Smoothie of the legendary TCS New York City Marathon, and is working with Strava, the app for active people, to bring the partnership to life. The brand is also testing a first-of-its-kind Run-Thru concept, making it easier than ever for runners to refuel post-run or workout while on the go. To celebrate, Smoothie King guests can enjoy a free Watermelon Hydration Smoothie nationwide on June 4, perfect for recharging. Introducing the "Run-Thru" Window: A New Way to Refuel on the GoTo kick off Global Running Day, Smoothie King is testing a brand-new restaurant concept, the Run-Thru. A fresh take on the traditional drive-thru, the Smoothie King Run-Thru window is a limited-time experience that invites runners to jog up and order their post-run smoothie on foot. The concept, which will be available exclusively on June 4 at 1325 E. Belt Line Rd in Richardson, TX, is designed to support the brand's core guests of runners, athletes, and holistic health and wellness-minded individuals, by making it easier to hydrate and recover right after a workout. Official Smoothie of the TCS New York City Marathon & Smoothie King Challenge on Strava Smoothie King is proud to partner with the nonprofit New York Road Runners (NYRR) to be the Official Smoothie of the 2025 TCS New York City Marathon, the best day of the year in New York City and one of the most inclusive and accessible sporting events in the world. On race day in November, the brand is bringing the spirit to the sidelines with an official Smoothie King Cheer Zone, located steps from its Brooklyn store. As part of the celebration, Smoothie King will also extend a special offer to all race participants and volunteers, bringing an extra boost of energy and encouragement to the event. The 2025 TCS New York City Marathon, one of 60 annual adult and youth races produced by New York Road Runners, will take place Sunday, November 2, drawing more than 50,000 athletes from around the world and two million spectators along the course. New York Road Runners launched Global Running Day in 2016. "Every first Sunday in November, the TCS New York City Marathon unites the global community, bringing together tens of thousands of athletes and millions of spectators and fans," said Christine Burke, Chief Commercial Officer, New York Road Runners. "New York Road Runners is excited to welcome Smoothie King as the first-ever Official Smoothie of the TCS New York City Marathon, helping fuel the spirit and energy of race-day and making the best day of the year in New York City even better." Additionally, Smoothie King is partnering with Strava, the app for active people, and will be hosting a variety of challenges and running segments throughout the year. Beginning now, Smoothie King and Strava are running The Smoothie King Challenge, giving runners across the country the chance to win exclusive prizes, including free smoothies and three limited-entry bibs for the 2025 TCS New York City Marathon. Participants can join the challenge on the Strava app or website within the Groups tab, under Challenges. The challenge will run from June 1 to June 30 with winners selected at random by Smoothie King. All selected participants must have completed The Smoothie King Challenge. With about two to three percent of the more than 200,000 applications for the 2025 TCS New York City Marathon drawing accepted, this challenge offers runners a rare opportunity to secure a spot in one of the world's most iconic races. Refuel with Complimentary Watermelon Hydration Smoothie Smoothie King just launched its new Hydration category designed to help guests recover, stay energized, and beat the summer heat. Made with coconut water and packed with electrolytes, this new category aligns with Smoothie King's Clean Blends commitment and its industry leading 'No No List' of over 75 ingredients it refuses to use, including artificial flavors, colors, and high fructose corn syrup. To celebrate the launch, guests can enjoy a free Watermelon Hydration Smoothie at Smoothie King locations nationwide on Global Running Day, June 4th. "As a brand that is committed to supporting holistic healthy active lifestyles, Smoothie King is proud to show up for runners in a meaningful and dynamic way this Global Running Day," said Claudia Schaefer, Chief Marketing Officer of Smoothie King. "From the Run-Thru to the new hydration smoothie and national partnerships, Smoothie King is reaffirming its commitment to helping guests achieve their health and active lifestyle goals. Whether you're gearing up for a marathon or just out for a quick jog, we're here to fuel your journey." To learn more about Smoothie King's Run-Thru activation or to join the Smoothie King Challenge, visit About Smoothie King Franchises, Inc. Smoothie King, the original U.S. smoothie franchise—founded in 1973—is a privately held, Dallas-based company with over 1,200 stores nationwide. The brand is committed to its mission to inspire people to live a healthy and active lifestyle focused on providing nutritious, great-tasting smoothies with whole fruits and organic vegetables while removing artificial flavors, colors and preservatives from all smoothies. The majority of Smoothie King's smoothies contain zero grams of added sugar. In April 2023, Smoothie King launched Smoothie Bowls, topped with whole fresh fruit and premium Purely Elizabeth™ granola, made with wholesome ingredients, non-GMO fruits and packed with flavor and nutrients. Smoothie King also offers retail products that include sports beverages, energy bars, vitamins, supplements and more. Repeatedly recognized as a top franchise opportunity, Smoothie King was recently ranked #11 in Entrepreneur's 2024 Top Brands for Multi-Unit Owners, selected as one of the 16 Best Restaurant Franchising Deals for 2024 by QSR Magazine, and recognized in QSR Magazine's QSR 50 ranking as one of the Top 50 Fast-Food Chains by Sales. The brand was also featured in the top 100 of Technomic's annual America's Favorite Chains data, which resulted in ranking #8 in Nation's Restaurant News' "America's Favorite Chains" list, an analysis of Technomic's data. About New York Road Runners (NYRR): A New York City-based nonprofit, New York Road Runners' vision is to build healthier lives and stronger communities through the transformative power of running – serving nearly a half a million people annually through its races, free community events, youth running initiatives, and school-based programs across the five boroughs. During its nearly 70 years, New York Road Runners has grown from a local running club to the world's premier community running organization, producing more than 60 adult and youth races each year, including the TCS New York City Marathon. Held the first Sunday each November, the TCS New York City Marathon features more than 50,000 runners—from the world's best professional athletes to a vast range of runners across experience levels, ages, genders, abilities, and backgrounds. To learn more, visit About StravaStrava is the app for active people. With over 150 million athletes in more than 185 countries, it's more than tracking workouts—it's where people make progress together, from new habits to new personal bests. No matter your sport or how you track it, Strava's got you covered. Find your crew, crush your goals, and make every effort count. Start your journey with Strava today. Join the Strava Club or follow Strava on Instagram, X, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn. Visit for more information. ContactsALISON BROD MARKETING + COMMUNICATIONSsmoothieking@ View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Smoothie King Sign in to access your portfolio
Yahoo
26-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Smoothie King names Gavin Felder as new president
Smoothie King, the US-based health and fitness fast-casual brand, has announced the appointment of Gavin Felder as its new president. Felder, who joined the company in May 2024, will also maintain his current role as chief financial officer (CFO). Smoothie King owner and CEO Wan Kim said: "Gavin is a dynamic and visionary leader with a strong track record of driving results and building high-performing teams." "His impact over the past year has been significant, and this expanded role is a natural next step as we continue to build on our brand's success." Since his arrival, Felder has been pivotal in driving financial discipline and strategic growth initiatives, enhancing Smoothie King's performance, the brand stated. In his dual role as president and CFO, he will oversee the day-to-day management while continuing to lead the company's financial strategy. This move is aimed at positioning Smoothie King for further innovation and expansion. Felder said: "It's a tremendous honour to step into this role as we embark on our next chapter of growth." "Smoothie King literally has all the ingredients to be the defining brand of our category, with the tastiest products backed by our Clean Blends promise and a truly unrivalled guest experience, all anchored by our inspiring mission and dynamic culture. I could not be more excited to partner with our team members and franchisees to realize our incredible potential." Felder's leadership experience spans over two decades, with a background in strategy, finance, brand-building, and franchise operations. Before his tenure at Smoothie King, he served 16 years at Yum! Brands, including as chief strategy officer, where he managed corporate strategy, investor relations, M&A, and store innovation. He also held the role of CFO for KFC Global, managing over $1bn in operating profit and nearly 25,000 restaurants in 140 countries. This leadership announcement follows Smoothie King's performance in Q1 2025, which saw 13 new store openings in eight states and 20 new store commitments in 15 markets. The brand is focusing on expanding its footprint, optimising the guest experience, and broadening its product range. This includes the recent launch of its Hydration category, offering three new electrolyte-packed smoothies with clean ingredients and no artificial additives. In January, Smoothie King also welcomed Claudia Schaefer as its new chief marketing officer, further strengthening its executive team. "Smoothie King names Gavin Felder as new president" was originally created and published by Verdict Food Service, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Sign in to access your portfolio
Yahoo
25-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Smoothie King opens 13 new stores in Q1 2025
US-based health and fitness fast-casual brand Smoothie King has opened 13 new stores and added 20 new store commitments in Q1 2025. This achievement marks the 15th consecutive quarter where the brand has secured at least 20 new store commitments. In Q1 2025, the brand expanded its presence across eight states, with more than half of the new stores inaugurated in its home state of Texas. The new store commitments, spanning 15 markets in 12 states, include multi-unit deals in strategic locations such as Long Island, New York, and Phoenix and Arizona. Nearly 60% of the new commitments have come from existing franchisees, demonstrating their confidence in the brand's direction and its mission to promote healthy living. Smoothie King chief development officer Chris Bremer said: "Our consistent growth quarter after quarter reflects the strength of the Smoothie King brand, the trust of our franchisee community, and the increasing demand for better-for-you options nationwide. "We're especially proud to see our existing franchisees continue to expand, proving the long-term value of our brand, and we look forward to welcoming new franchisees into the Smoothie King family as we grow together." Established in 1973, Smoothie King is a privately held, Dallas-based company with more than 1,200 stores nationwide. In January 2025, the brand introduced a new food menu called 'Power Eats' at select Texas locations, marking the first time in 50 years that Smoothie King has offered food items alongside its smoothies. Smoothie King also welcomed Claudia Schaefer as the new chief marketing officer earlier this year. "Smoothie King opens 13 new stores in Q1 2025" was originally created and published by Verdict Food Service, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Sign in to access your portfolio
