Smoothie King Franchises, the premier smoothie and nutritional lifestyle center, announced that it has experienced 20 months of consecutive positive same-store sales.

Coming off an overall 10.8 percent increase from last year, in January 2013 alone, Smoothie King’s U.S. locations reported a 4.2 percent increase in same-store sales, as compared to the previous year.

Additionally, Smoothie King’s same-store sales have outperformed the overall same-store sales figures of the quick-service restaurant industry for 19 of the past 20 months, in addition to 11 consecutive quarters of positive same-store sales, according to an industry audit conducted by Smoothie King.

“Smoothie King’s 20 consecutive months of positive same-store sales increases is a true testament to the strength of our brand, which is not only driven by consumers’ increasing desire to live a healthier lifestyle, but also by our franchisees, who are dedicated to delivering a superior customer experience,” says Smoothie King global CEO Wan Kim.

“This milestone is a remarkable feat, especially since, in January 2012, the company posted a 25 percent increase in sales,” he continues. “Furthermore, this demonstrates that Smoothie King is a predictable, measurable, and sustainable investment opportunity year-round, even during the winter months.” 

Earlier this month, Smoothie King announced a new franchise development incentive program in celebration of its 40th anniversary. New franchisees will receive 40 percent off the franchise fee, a savings of $10,000, for the first 40 agreements signed in 2013. 

Smoothie King plans to add 1,000 new franchised and corporate locations domestically over the next five years. Even with more than 500 locations in the U.S., the brand still has extensive smoothie franchise opportunities available in the Southeast, Mid-Atlantic, and Northeast regions, as well as in Texas.

International development includes master franchise and corporate expansion in Korea, Singapore, and Malaysia, with 50 new stores planned in Korea and 10 in Singapore in 2013.

Franchisees should possess a passion for the brand and be dedicated to serving the community. While restaurant experience is not required, the ideal candidate for the smoothie franchise should have an entrepreneurial spirit, as well as sales, marketing, restaurant, and/or retail experience. 

Beverage, Denise Lee Yohn: QSR's Marketing Guru, Finance, Growth, News, Smoothie King