SoBol Brings its High-Quality Menu and Community-Focused Attitude to the Sunshine State

Consumers are increasingly making health a priority, whether through gym memberships or a commitment to healthier eating. And, thanks to SoBol and its recent growth spurt, consumers in Florida can now up the ante when it comes to prioritizing healthier eating options.

Founded in 2014, SoBol, the leading quick-serve açai concept, has grown to more than 36 locations in six states. SoBol’s Wellington, Florida store—its first in the state—opened in August 2019 and has seen a degree of success that has prompted the brand to continue its expansion throughout the Sunshine State, according to Robin Graf, Vice President & Director of Franchise Sales at SoBol.

SoBol has big plans for the coming years, with an overall goal to hit 54 locations across the state. SoBol, Boca Raton, is currently gearing up for an opening date sometime in early 2020, with an additional three developments currently in lease negotiations, according to Graf.

Graf and the rest of the executive team predict there will be at least 10 Florida SoBol locations up and running within the next 12 to 18 months. The team identified the following Florida markets as key development targets: Boca Raton, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, Delray Beach, Jupiter, Ocean Ridge, Palm Beach Gardens and Key Biscayne. And, with an average of 20 to 22 employees in each location, Graf predicts that this growth will bring close to 500 jobs to the state.

So, why is Florida a good fit for the all-natural, fresh-ingredients açai concept?

Florida has ideal weather most of the year, which allows SoBol to position its product as something that can be consumed all year-round, Graf noted. Additionally, the significant number of former New Yorkers living in Florida increases the brand recognition among area residents, especially due to its large Northeast presence.

**Besides an easy transition into a new market, SoBol offers significant value to the communities in which it operates. “Our engagement with the community is really second to none—a sense of community is really what company culture is all about,” Graf said. “Our franchisees have roots in their respective communities, which is advantageous right out of the gate.

Our franchisees have children who go to school with our customer’s children, they attend the same church, go to the same grocery store, et cetera, so our stores have become a nice hub for the community to gather and share an incredible experience.”

The competitive landscape in Florida is not a drawback for SoBol because, according to Graf, it will always stand out from the crowd thanks to the product itself and the experience it provides. SoBol features refreshing açai bowls topped with homemade granola and fresh fruit as well as a pitaya bowl, a green bowl and a plethora of smoothies. And, unlike brands with similar products, customers can expect their bowl to be ready within two to three minutes of ordering.

“From the moment they step into a SoBol location, customers are getting an experience,” Graf said. “It’s what keeps people coming back, time and time again. And, chances are, after the second or third time a customer comes in, the employee will know their names and get to know them as a person.”

With four developments currently on its pipeline, SoBol is definitely seizing opportunities for growth. As SoBol prepares for additional expansion, the brand is constantly looking for franchise candidates that are passionate about the brand and its proven business model. And, according to Graf, with an investment range around $200,000, candidates can become part of a compelling brand committed to a high-quality product and streamlined system.