While many of its largest competitors continue to fight the long-raging chicken sandwich war, Tropical Smoothie Cafe believes the unprecedented response to its newest limited time offering indicates consumers are ready to move on — to shrimp.
Tropical Smoothie Cafe, LLC, the franchisor of the national fast-casual concept known for its better-for-you smoothies and food with a tropical twist, today announced its Mardi Gras inspired Cajun Shrimp Wrap and Cajun Shrimp Salad are starting to sell out nationwide. The limited time menu offerings debuted just last week as guests are looking for healthier alternatives at the beginning of the year, but the overwhelming response from consumers has resulted in record-breaking sales and shrimp shortages in cafes across the country.
The Cajun Shrimp Wrap at Tropical Smoothie Cafe features seasoned shrimp, dirty rice, creole sauce, cheddar, romaine, tomato and green onions in a toasted wrap.
The Cajun Shrimp Salad at Tropical Smoothie Cafe features seasoned shrimp, dirty rice, cheddar, tomato, and green onions on a bed of romaine with creamy creole dressing on the side.
“We were confident our guests would love our new Mardi Gras-inspired menu items, but we never dreamed they would generate this kind of a response,” says Charles Watson, CEO of Tropical Smoothie Cafe, LLC. “Our entire team is working around the clock to secure more inventory to ensure any shortages are as short-lived as possible, but the demand is incredible – and growing. Guests are even paying for their Cajun Shrimp Wrap or Salad in the morning to be sure they’ll have one reserved for lunch. It’s just amazing. We’ve never seen anything like this.”
Tropical Smoothie Cafe launched the new menu items, along with their new Hurricane Smoothie, on January 6 with plans to have them available until March 23. First week sales broke records for the company and were so strong that some cafes began running out within days of the launch. The company hopes to continue the promotion through March 23 as originally planned but acknowledges there will likely be shortages across the country as it scrambles to keep up with guest demand.
“Guests are ready to move on from 2020 and perhaps, from fried chicken on a bun as well,” Watson continues. “We provided a fresher, flavorful alternative and it’s outperforming any new food item in our history. Maybe 2021 will mark the end of the chicken sandwich wars.”
