2018
12
$75,000
$35,000
$570,500
No
Better Blend is a purpose-driven smoothie and acai bowl franchise revolutionizing the health food industry in the United States. Founded in 2018 by Isaac Hamlin, a former University of Kentucky rugby player, Better Blend offers a menu of low-sugar, high-protein smoothies and bowls made from premium ingredients. The brand's commitment to nutritious, delicious, and convenient meals has positioned it as a leader in the fast-casual health food sector.
Thriving Industry: The global smoothie market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 9.3% through 2030, reaching over $23 billion by the end of the decade.
Low-Cost Startup: With a target turnkey investment of $350,000, Better Blend offers an affordable entry into the health food franchise market.
Highly Scalable: The franchise model is designed for rapid expansion, supported by strong unit economics and easy-to-operate systems.
Award-Winning Brand: Recognized with accolades such as “Most Innovative Startup” and "Kentucky Young Entrepreneur of the Year" by The Business Journals, and featured in Forbes' "30 Under 30."
Better Blend is a health-focused smoothie and acai bowl franchise founded in 2018 by Isaac Hamlin, a former University of Kentucky rugby player. The brand emerged from Hamlin's quest to create nutritious, low-sugar, high-protein smoothies that could serve as satisfying pre-game meals. After developing recipes during his college years, Hamlin returned to his hometown of Florence, Kentucky, to launch the first Better Blend location.
The company's mission is to make healthy eating accessible and enjoyable by offering fast, clean, and delicious options. Better Blend emphasizes the use of premium ingredients and dietitian-approved nutrition facts in its offerings.
Since its inception, Better Blend has expanded rapidly, operating multiple locations across Kentucky and Ohio. The brand has also introduced a franchise model to facilitate further growth. As of early 2025, Better Blend operates 12 franchise units, with plans for additional locations in the Greater Cincinnati area.
Better Blend is independently owned and operated, with no affiliation to other smoothie or nutrition supplement companies.
Better Blend provides an extensive training regimen that covers all facets of operating a franchise. This includes:
Operational Training: Franchisees receive in-depth instruction on day-to-day operations, including smoothie and bowl preparation, inventory management, and customer service protocols.
Staff Training: Guidance on hiring, training, and managing staff to ensure consistent service quality and team cohesion.
Marketing and Branding: Training on utilizing corporate marketing materials, implementing local marketing strategies, and maintaining brand consistency across all locations.
Financial Management: Instruction on budgeting, financial reporting, and cost control measures to maintain profitability.
This structured training ensures that franchisees are well-prepared to manage their operations effectively from the outset.
Beyond initial training, Better Blend offers continuous support to franchisees, including:
Operational Assistance: Regular check-ins and support from the corporate team to address any operational challenges and provide guidance.
Marketing Support: Access to updated marketing materials and campaigns to drive customer engagement and sales.
Product Development: Insights into new product offerings and seasonal menu items to keep the menu fresh and appealing.
This ongoing support fosters a strong franchisee-franchisor relationship, contributing to sustained business growth.
Better Blend assists franchisees in selecting optimal locations, providing:
Site Selection: Guidance on choosing high-traffic areas with strong demographic appeal.
Design and Build-Out: Support in designing the store layout and overseeing the build-out process to ensure brand consistency and operational efficiency.
This assistance helps franchisees establish a strong presence in their chosen markets.
The franchise model is designed for scalability, offering:
Turnkey Operations: A proven system that simplifies operations, making it easier to manage and expand.
Multiple Revenue Streams: Opportunities to generate income through various channels, including dine-in, takeout, and catering services.
This scalability allows franchisees to grow their businesses at a pace that suits their goals.
Better Blend seeks franchisees who are passionate about health, nutrition, and community engagement, and who have the drive and resources to grow a successful franchise. The ideal candidate combines business acumen with a personal commitment to promoting healthy lifestyles.
Experience in retail, food service, or franchise operations is beneficial but not strictly required.
Individuals with entrepreneurial experience or prior management roles in customer-facing businesses are well-suited.
A willingness to follow proven operational systems is important to maintain brand consistency.
Strong interest in health, wellness, and nutrition.
Commitment to customer satisfaction and community engagement, as Better Blend emphasizes local involvement.
Enthusiasm for promoting premium, nutritious products like low-sugar, high-protein smoothies and acai bowls.
Ability to invest between $251,700 and $570,500 (total investment range).
Minimum liquid capital of $75,000 required to ensure smooth operations and sustainability.
Comfortable with paying a $35,000 franchise fee, plus ongoing royalty and marketing fees.
Willing to actively manage the day-to-day operations or hire capable management.
Open to following corporate guidelines and procedures for operations, marketing, and staffing.
Motivated to grow the franchise locally and expand into additional locations if desired.
Ideal franchisees target high-traffic areas such as urban centers, malls, or shopping districts.
Areas with a health-conscious demographic are preferred for optimal success.
Willingness to adapt marketing and operational strategies to the local market while maintaining brand standards.
Entrepreneurial spirit with strong leadership and organizational skills.
Customer-focused mindset with excellent communication and team management abilities.
Long-term vision, seeking to build a sustainable and profitable business rather than just short-term gains.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Investment Required | $251,700 – $570,500 |
| Minimum Investment Required | $75,000 liquid capital |
| Franchise Fee | $35,000 |
| Infrastructure / Build-Out Cost | Included in total investment (varies by location size & lease requirements) |
| Marketing Budget | 1% of monthly gross sales |
| Working Capital | Included in total investment |
| Royalty Fees | 6% of monthly gross sales |
| Expected ROI | Varies by location and management; potential for strong returns |
| Break-Even Time | 18 – 24 months (depending on market conditions and operational efficiency) |
| Revenue Streams | In-store sales, takeout, catering services, food truck operations, at-home smoothie kits |
