After Humza Tanvir graduated from Rutgers University in 2005 with a degree in mechanical engineering, he worked as a computer software consultant for over 15 years.
The constant travel eventually began to take a toll, and he was missing out on the family life that was so important to him. That’s when he decided to switch gears and explore the world of franchising.
Getting Started with the Smoothie King Franchise
Humza’s entrepreneurial journey began when he would travel for his computer software job.
“I would always get smoothies when I was on the road. They’re a convenient option and have all the nutrients I need,” Humza explained.
He became a Smoothie King franchisee primarily because of his love for the product. In 2017, he opened his first Smoothie King location in Marlton, New Jersey. This new venture was originally meant to be a “side hustle” in addition to running his consulting business.
The more he worked with the brand, the more intrigued and invested he became. He went on to open five additional Smoothie King locations in Delran, West Berlin, and Voorhees Township in New Jersey, two in Whitehall and one most recently, in York, Pennsylvania.
Four of these stores were open right in the middle of the pandemic in 2020. While this may seem intimidating to some, COVID-19 was not about to slow him down.
Persevering Through a Global Pandemic
Humza kept a positive attitude throughout last year, bolstered by the fact that he had chosen excellent locations.
“The good news is they all have good visibility, easy access and great neighboring businesses, and those are all very important aspects when starting a business,” he stated.
At the same time, he was quick to adapt his marketing tactics as he navigated the challenges imposed by the pandemic.
He focused his efforts on sampling his products, all while enforcing COVID safety protocols. This included making sure all samples were sealed and carefully handled.
Humza’s favorite part of being a franchisee is getting to help his community.
“Even through the pandemic, the goal was always to keep growing and creating jobs. I want to continue to create opportunities for people,” he explained.
He went on to speak about how many of these positions are first jobs for teenagers. He takes pride in getting to help train them and prepare them for their future careers.
Additionally, he places an emphasis on teamwork and promoting a superb work culture. He likes to promote internally and help others reach their goals, and he credits his area manager with helping him to solidify this healthy work environment.
“It makes me happy to know that even if I can’t be there some days, the business keeps running. It doesn’t miss a beat even without me there,” he pointed out.
Future Plans for Franchise Growth
Humza is eager to continue to help and see others on his team grow and succeed. The best way he can do that is by continuing to promote a healthy product and encourage an active lifestyle in brand new communities.
He spends 80% of his time seeking out new opportunities and is always looking ahead. Growth is at the forefront of his career goals, not only within New Jersey but expanding into Pennsylvania as well.
“When you think about it, all people and businesses can benefit from our products, which is one of the reasons we have such huge potential,” he added. “Living healthy is for everyone”
