Jamba announced Tuesday it has signed a franchise agreement with multi-unit operator Kurt Wilson to expand in college markets across the southeast. Kurt Wilson, owner and president of NA Foodservice Inc. and a multi-unit Zaxby’s Franchisee will open five Jamba locations in Alabama and Georgia.
“Since we announced our brand evolution in June, we’ve been working hard to identify the right franchisees that can help our brand expand in key markets across the country,” says Geoff Henry, president of Jamba. “Kurt has a long history of success with Zaxby’s and we know he’s the right partner that will help us establish a deeper presence in college towns in the southeast. We welcome Kurt to the Jamba family and look forward to seeing his success.”
A franchisee with Zaxby’s for more than 18 years, Wilson has helped the fast food alternative expand its footprint in Alabama. Now, along with his partner Michael Santiana, Wilson will help Jamba build a presence in Auburn, AL; Tuscaloosa, AL; Athens, GA; Kennesaw, GA and Marietta, GA. All five units are anticipated to open in 2020 and 2021.
“We’ve been watching Jamba’s evolution over the years very closely. Once we learned of the new store design, menu innovation and enhanced technology, we were sold on becoming Jamba franchisees,” adds Wilson. “Michael and I are honored to become part of this growing family and we know we’ve selected ideal markets for this brand. Smoothies, bowls and bites are perfect for the college community. College students live a life that is fast-paced and need something on-the-go. We’re excited to provide them with that opportunity.”
NA Foodservice Inc. and all franchisees in the Jamba system have the ability to use FOCUS Brands’ shared services including marketing, real estate, technology and more to help them successfully launch and operate their restaurants. FOCUS Brands added Jamba to its growing portfolio in September 2018.
Jamba is aggressively rolling out its new store design and has franchise opportunities available throughout several key markets. The global lifestyle brand is actively seeking individuals with an entrepreneurial spirit who possess enthusiasm about the brand, marketing skills and the ability to manage a strong team.
