Atlanta — Tropical Smoothie Cafe, a leading national fast-casual cafe franchise known for both its better-for-you smoothies and food with a tropical twist, has seen strong growth year-to-date in 2020 including the signing of 103 new franchise agreements, including 49 signed since March 1 — of which, 67% are with existing franchisees. In addition, the company also opened 43 new restaurants in 2020 with 35 cafes opening since March 1. Franchise agreements and cafe openings targeted growth in 25 states, propelling franchise development efforts in target markets across the country.
With many franchise concepts having to pivot their business models to align with recent events and related economic shift, Tropical Smoothie Cafe, LLC went above and beyond to commit to its franchisees, team members and guests by implementing systemwide initiatives. Most notably, the company restructured its franchise development team to provide needed best practices and support to guide franchisees through the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) funding process and its real estate team shifted priorities to assist franchisees as they negotiated rent deferrals and abatements. As a result, Tropical Smoothie Cafe franchisees secured more than $29 million in PPP funds for small business owners across the system and achieved $1.8 million in rent relief for approximately 250 cafes. Additionally, the brand implemented hyper-local marketing initiatives, enhanced order modes to include curbside and delivery options, and offered a 50% royalty relief reduction for eight weeks to further support franchisees.
Charles Watson, Tropical Smoothie Cafe
“As we reflect on the past few months, we’re incredibly humbled by the momentum we’ve accomplished during one of the most challenging periods our industry has ever experienced,” says Charles Watson, CEO of Tropical Smoothie Cafe, LLC. “Keeping our culture and franchisees top priority, we quickly mobilized to ensure our franchisees felt supported and were equipped with the right guidance and tools to successfully navigate through this unprecedented time.”
Tropical Smoothie Cafe is a national fast-casual cafe concept inspiring a healthier lifestyle with more than 850 locations nationwide. To read Retail & Restaurant Facility Business magazine’s April 2020 cover story on Tropical Smoothie Cafe, click here.
SOURCE: Tropical Smoothie Cafe