Tropical Smoothie Cafe has opened a double drive-thru location in Oklahoma City, the first of its kind for the brand.
Franchisee Rohit Patel is behind the store at 1714 Northwest 23rd St., which features two drive-thru lanes, one standard and the other designated for online, third-party and curbside ordering pick-up. It marks Patel’s 14th location.
“Opening new locations is always something we look forward to, and there is an extra level of excitement when a new cafe model opens for the first time,” Charles Watson, CEO of Tropical Smoothie, said in a company press release. “Rohit is an extremely dedicated franchisee. We knew his confidence in the brand and passion for the design and construction element of his new cafes would make him the right person for the first double drive-thru location.”
With just a few in-restaurant dining tables, the small building footprint allows ample space for multiple cars and quick, convenient pick up, according to the release.
“I am so honored to be the first franchisee to launch a double drive-thru for Tropical Smoothie Cafe, signifying growth for the brand’s tech-driven operations,” Patel said in the release. He was part of the design team that developed the plans for the brand’s double drive-thru model. “Not only is it a fantastic opportunity to meet the demand for digital ordering, the new model also offers more convenience and a unique guest experience. We can’t wait to officially open and see the response to the new design.”
Aside from owning and operating locations throughout the Oklahoma and Kansas City markets managed by Hero Hospitality, Patel also sits on the brand-wide construction committee.
Tropical Smoothie Cafe, which has over 1,150 locations, is looking to grow via franchising. Interested candidates must have business experience, along with a minimum net worth of $350,000, which includes $125,000 in liquid assets. Candidates who meet these preliminary qualifications will need to make an initial investment ranging between $277,00 and $584,000, according to the release.
