Denver, CO. - June 23, 2004 - Planet Smoothie, one of the country's largest smoothie franchises, announces today that it has signed its first regional representative charged with opening as many as 22 Planet Smoothies in Colorado by 2008. Philip Minatra, a Colorado native who grew up cycling around the cities and towns of Colorado as a child and eventual champion cyclist, has signed on to develop aggressively the Planet Smoothie presence throughout Colorado.

"The regional representative strategy makes great sense for us because it places an individual(s) in the market who is dedicated to and insightful about the geography," explains Chris Morocco, Chief Marketing Officer, Planet Smoothie. "And the regional representative often is vested in the brand as a franchisee so his or her value to neighboring franchisees is invaluable."

Minatra anticipates opening his first Planet Smoothie in early 2005 at the Rocky Mountain Medical Center in Denver. Customers respond extremely well to Planet Smoothie's menu of 30 different smoothies because it offers something for everyone - low fat, low calorie, low carb, low sugar or for the more active lifestyle, high protein.

"I grew up involved in athletics all my life, from the 60s when my father was a pioneer in the cycling movement," explains Minatra. "I think the Planet Smoothie brand is a 21st century brand because it addresses convenience which drives our culture, nutritional challenges often compromised by fast food and it's a fun brand that adults and kids love. I believe Colorado will love it too."

In addition to Planet Smoothie's traditional smoothie menu, it has begun offering an extended menu and cafe experience in many of its new Planet Smoothies. Look for Colorado outlets to offer a large selection of healthy alternatives made fresh for the consumer such as Chicken Caesar Gourmet Wraps, a variety of fresh salads as well as its line of meal replacement smoothies, low carb bars, freshly squeezed juices and low fat snacks. Planet Smoothie currently operates two locations in Colorado, one in Denver and one in Pueblo.

"We believe customers are looking for fulfilling, but healthier menu options that support their decision to live a healthier lifestyle," explains Morocco. "We are extending the Planet Smoothie brand into a healthy fast casual experience with our traditional smoothies as well as healthy wraps, sandwiches and salads, delivered in a fun and engaging atmosphere."

About Planet Smoothie

Founded in 1995 in Atlanta by highly successful quick casual entrepreneur Martin Sprock, Planet Smoothie is the original smoothie concept featuring fresh fruit smoothies infused with vitamins and nutrients. It operates 136 units in 20 states throughout the country with plans to open an additional 60 Planet Smoothies 2004. Planet Smoothie was the first in the industry to expand its product line to include healthy wrap sandwiches called Round-A-Bouts and nutritious soups, giving customers a range of healthy meal options. Planet Smoothie is part of the Raving Brands portfolio, which includes Moe's Southwest Grill, Mama Fu's Noodle House, and PJ's Coffee Company. For more information on Planet Smoothie, visit www.planetsmoothie.com. ”

Back to News Articles >>