Emerald City Smoothie is one quick-service brand that is getting creative as it seeks to expand in a tight credit market. The 63-unit chain, located primarily in the Northwest, is focusing on a variety of tactics to appeal to franchisees, from store design to its franchise marketing efforts.
Julie Vance, vice president of operations for Emerald City Smoothie, said the company had already been developing a kiosk store model before the downturn. But with credit tight, the smaller, less expensive unit has become popular with existing and prospective franchisees.
The kiosk model reduces the buildout cost by about 50 percent, Vance said. Many of the units are being located inside large fitness centers or other complementary businesses to reach the brand’s core customers. More.