Planet Smoothie Franchise Review: Q&A with Roshan Patel
How a Cold Stone franchise owner diversified his business by investing in a smoothie franchise
Prior to becoming a Planet Smoothie franchise owner, Roshan Patel spent 15 years as a Cold Stone Creamery franchisee. Nearly one year ago, Patel decided to challenge himself and diversify his business by investing in a Planet Smoothie franchise. He sought an opportunity that offered a proven business model and key leadership that knew exactly where the business was headed. Already part of the Kahala Brands™ family, one of the largest franchise brands in the world, he knew he found the right opportunity in the rapidly expanding smoothie franchise.
For the past 20 years, Planet Smoothie has excelled in delivering the best-tasting smoothie on the Planet® in the country by using real fruit and zero junk. As a result, Planet Smoothie has grown to more than 140 locations throughout the United States. Even better, our easy-to-understand business model, unmatched franchise support and growing brand recognition allows entrepreneurs to own a business that makes a difference in their communities every day.
Today, Roshan Patel now operates two Cold Stone franchises and will open a co-brand location with Planet Smoothie in Roswell, Georgia this summer.
Here’s his story.
Why did you decide to invest in Planet Smoothie? Did you look at any other concepts?
Roshan Patel: Planet Smoothie is part of Kahala Brands, hence our decision to co-brand Planet Smoothie with Cold Stone. I joined the Cold Stone family when I was 21 years old. Not only have I seen the Cold Stone brand grow during this time, but I’ve also seen growth with the Planet Smoothie brand as well. I had always heard great things about it, but never had the opportunity to open one. Now, I have the opportunity and space to co-brand with my Cold Stone location. So I’m very excited to open the store and bring delicious smoothies to our community.
Where will your store be located? Why do you feel this market will be successful?
Patel: Our store will open in Roswell, Georgia. I believe this market will be successful for us because it’s strong. Kahala Brands helped us pick this location and believes that it will be a very good location based on the research they helped us conduct. We’re near a shopping mall with a lot of traffic due to Panera Bread, Target and other stores. Ultimately, we think our Planet Smoothie will be a great welcome addition to the area.
How does Planet Smoothie support you in your business?
Patel: As part of Kahala Brands, Planet Smoothie franchise owners benefit from robust franchise support. We are provided with comprehensive marketing support, and in-store training for us and our managers, as well as ongoing coaching to ensure that our business has all the resources it needs.
What skills do you need to succeed as a Planet Smoothie franchise owner?
Patel: First, you have to have a positive attitude. Second, you have to have a passion for customer service, because that’s a major part of this business. And it’s a people business, so you have to be a people person, too. When customers come into our stores, sometimes they come in to see you and get their favorite treat. It’s about building relationships, being a people person, and providing a consistent, tasty treat.
What are your hopes for the future?
Patel: I have enjoyed my time as a Cold Stone franchise owner, and feel this will be the same with my Planet Smoothie franchise. Looking ahead, I want to be successful and would like to open up more standalone and co-brand locations.
Why is now a good time to invest in Planet Smoothie?
Patel: Now is a great time to invest in a Planet Smoothie, because people are becoming more and more health-conscious than ever before. There are various diets people are following, like keto, which recommend having a great smoothie as part of your diet. Planet Smoothie fills that need as we make the best-tasting smoothies. Plus, our smoothies fill the need for real fruit smoothies made without any artificial flavors or preservatives. And the great thing about Planet Smoothie is that we have something for everyone. Additionally, the smoothie industry is booming, so there’s plenty of opportunity to capture your share of it.
Learn more about Planet Smoothie
To learn more about Planet Smoothie franchise options, please visit our website. Read the latest news on our blog, and delve into the options for ownership on our research pages.