In a move to expand its brand overseas for the first time, the Robeks smoothie chain detailed ambitious plans for growth in Japan and 12 other Asian countries.
Manhattan Beach, Calif.-based Robeks Corp. said it has signed a multi-year master franchise agreement with Tokyo-based Clarence Corp. to open 500 smoothie outlets throughout Asia, beginning in 2011.
The smoothie chain is among a growing number of American brands looking for international growth as the economy remains challenging in the United States.
In recent weeks, Buffalo Wild Wings announced plans to move into Canada for the first time, for example. Five Guys Burgers and Fries also said it is looking for locations in Canada; Wendy’s/Arby’s Group plans to debut units in Russia and the Eastern Caribbean; and frozen-yogurt concept Menchie’s recently said it has a master franchise agreement for Japan.
Robeks currently franchises about 140 stores in 17 states and Washington, D.C.
Clarence Corp., founded in 1991 by Masahiro Koh, specializes in importing and distributing health-food products in Japan.
In a statement, Koh said the smoothie trend fits with the increased interest in healthy foods among Asian consumers.
“With growing waistlines from the consumption of traditional fast food, consumers across the globe are increasingly concerned about proper nutrition and good health,” he said. “We have our sights set on making Robeks the market leader in this emerging category.”
Under the agreement, development plans include three “larger format” prototype stores with café-style interiors before the broader rollout of both the cafes and smaller kiosk locations at shopping malls, universities, transit hubs, office buildings and other high-traffic areas.
Steve Davidson, Robeks president and chief executive, said in a statement that Robeks is looking forward to “bringing the great health benefits of Robeks’ delicious menu items to millions of new customers throughout the world by forming franchise alliances with strong operators in major countries around the globe.”
Contact Lisa Jennings at [email protected].