Smoothie King Wraps up Successful 2016 Franchise Convention

After closing out 2015 with 86 new locations opened in 21 states—24 more store openings than in 2014—Smoothie King had every reason to celebrate at its 2016 Franchise Convention in New Orleans.

In March, more than 850 Smoothie King corporate team members, partner vendors and franchisees from all over the globe gathered in New Orleans to recognize 2015’s accomplishments and milestones. During those two days, attendees discussed and shared fresh ideas to fuel continued growth for the year ahead. Held in the heart of the city’s historic downtown at the Hyatt Regency, the 2016 Convention’s theme was “People, Passion & Purpose.”

This year’s event focused on the company’s initiatives for the future, offered informative breakout sessions, featured an onsite vendor fair, and showcased some of today’s best products in the health and wellness industry.

Franchise growth strategies

“The conference is a chance to take a break from our daily routines, to re-energize our system, focus on professional development, and improve operational excellence to increase our bottom line. There’s so much positive energy at this event, and franchisees walk away with best practices and new ideas to help boost sales at their Smoothie King locations while supporting our strategy of Smoothies with a Purpose,” said Smoothie King CEO Wan Kim.

At the conference, the leadership team outlined some of Smoothie King’s greatest victories in 2015, including acknowledging many top performers for sales successes. To celebrate the franchisees that have helped the brand experience such a successful year, Smoothie King recognized some of its top performers with the King’s Club award. Bestowed annually, franchisees operating some of the brand’s top grossing stores are honored for their hard work.

This year, 184 stores received this honor. In 2010, 26 franchisees earned this award, showing more than 600 percent growth in King’s Club stores in five short years.

Brand evolution efforts

In addition to the hard work of its franchisees, the evolution of the brand, which includes a new logo, new store prototype, streamlined retail, menu optimization and branding of the Smoothie King Center, has played a significant role in helping Smoothie King to achieve such impressive sales growth. In an effort to drive growth and profitability over the year ahead, the brand will focus on new initiatives, including continued menu development.

As the brand plans for another prosperous year, Smoothie King is targeting new territories for development to increase its presence and gain market share. With 780 units currently open worldwide and over 100 locations projected to open in 2016, the brand is well on its way to achieving its goal of 1,000 units by the end of 2017.

“As the company enters its 43rd year in business, it’s clear that Smoothie King wouldn’t be where it is today without our strong system of dedicated franchisees. After wrapping up yet another successful conference, we’re feeling revitalized and refocused on making the biggest impact possible in more and more lives across the world in the coming years,” said President and Chief Operating Officer Tom O’Keefe.