Smoothie King Announces Grand Opening in Gainesville

GAINESVILLE - Smoothie King, the originator of the nutritional, fruit-based smoothie, opened the doors to its first lifestyle center in Gainesville on Feb. 8.

Franchisees Viet Le and Tuyet Cao opened the new Smoothie King at 890 Dawsonville Highway in the Home Depot shopping center.

Smoothie King offers more than 40 smoothies made to order with real fruit, all-natural juices and a functional mix of vitamins and nutrients to fit every need or lifestyle. Whether a guest is looking to gain or lose weight, build muscle, boost immunity or complement a workout, Smoothie King's trained team members can help educate and help guests choose a smoothie right for them. The new Smoothie King, at 985-square-feet, will also offer an array of healthy living products, including energy bars, snacks and vitamin supplements.

"I'm proud to introduce Smoothie King to the residents of Gainesville," Le said. "We are confident the community will embrace the concept and enjoy the great taste and health benefits of our smoothies and products."

Le is from New Orleans and has been a Smoothie King fan most of his life. Upon moving to the Gainesville area, he knew immediately the city needed its own Smoothie King. Six years later, he and his wife are proud to bring the newest healthy alternative to the city.

"Smoothie King makes it easy to choose something healthy," Le said. "Refreshing and delicious, our smoothies are a nutritious alternative to fast food. It's easy to pick one up on the way to work or home from the gym."

The new store hours are Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Smoothie King's founder and CEO, Steve Kuhnau, began making smoothies in response to his own health issues and food allergies. After more than 30 years and 480 Smoothie King stores in 32 states later, Kuhnau and his wife Cindy, Smoothie King's co-founder, accomplished their desire to bring healthful products to mainstream America.

"Our mission is to relentlessly influence more and more people to achieve a healthier lifestyle," Kuhnau said. "We are excited to spread that mission and extend our concept to the Gainesville area by offering healthy, great-tasting options for people on the go."