Due to today’s busier lifestyles, consumers are increasingly replacing main meals with more flexible, light and convenient snacking options. According to Technomic, 83 percent of consumers reported snacking daily in 2016 compared to 76 percent in 2014. 

In addition, while obesity and diabetes rates have increased over the past decades, consumers have responded by becoming increasingly health-conscious in recent years.

These three factors combined – the growing trend of “snackification;” a demand for portable, on-the-go food products; and more consumers opting away from high-calorie sugary treats in favor of more fulfilling and energizing options – has created the ultimate perfect storm for the smoothie business.

Because smoothies can work as meal replacements and energizing snack options, these favorable market conditions bode well for Smoothie King and its mission of inspiring people to live a healthy and active lifestyle.

What Makes Smoothies an Ideal Snack?

In addition to their great taste and customizability, smoothies prepared at Smoothie King are crafted with real fruit and fruit juice, nuts or veggies and may be enhanced with high-quality proteins, vitamins, minerals, or antioxidants.

With an abundance of nutritious ingredients, each smoothie is blended with a purpose to help individuals achieve their goals. In the past, the convenience of many types of snacks forced people to sacrifice transparency with respect to what they put in their bodies. As communities across the country have started to notice the effects of junk food, establishments that offer better-for-you options have gained popularity.

By virtue of Smoothie King’s drive-thru system, smoothies have transitioned into a snack on the run for many consumers. A result of offering smoothies in a drive-thru establishment gives guests the opportunity to take care of their daily responsibilities and maintain their ideal diet—all in a convenient format.

What Other Purposes Can Smoothies Achieve?

Inclusive of being a better-for-you snack option, some smoothies can be substituted for entire meals and used to accommodate a fitness plan. According to a 2016 EcoFocus Trend Study, consumers are seeking a snack that meets many standards of nutrition, including:

• Refreshment
• Fullness
• Energy
• Immunity support
• Weight loss
• Sleep
• Blood sugar management

Smoothie King has the ability to reach each guest’s purpose because the menu is broken up into four options: Fitness Blends, Slim Blends, Wellness Blends and Take a Break Blends. These options allow every guest to get exactly what they want out of their daytime snacks and meal replacements.

By focusing in on why our guests visit our 880+ locations, we can readily provide them with a list of smoothies to meet their needs. There is no guessing, and the simple ingredients are listed for their convenience. When our guests have a better understanding of what they are putting into their bodies, their health and fitness goals can finally become attainable as part of a sensible diet and regular exercise routine.

To learn more about Smoothie King and its franchise opportunity, download our Franchise Kit