A 'Smooth,' Not to Mention, Sweet, Choice for a Franchise
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Franchise Players is Entrepreneur's Q&A interview column that puts the spotlight on franchisees. If you're a franchisee with advice and tips to share, email ktaylor@entrepreneur.com.
In 2012 Quamisha Nelson was a newlywed, in love with her new husband, certainly, but also "deeply in love" -- as she puts it -- with Smoothie King, the healthy fruit-drink company. So, of course it was the perfect franchise choice. "I just followed my heart," Nelson says. And, while she says she's encountered some bumps along the way -- the construction phase was longer than expected -- Nelson aims, eventually, to own 20 Smoothie Kings. Now, that's a lot of "Hulk Strawberry" concoctions.
Name: Quamisha Nelsone
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Franchise owned: Smoothie King in Jacksonville, North Carolina
How long have you owned a franchise?
I purchased my first Smoothie King franchise in November of 2012. I have been with Smoothie King for just over two-and-a-half years and I have enjoyed every single moment of this journey.
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Why franchising?
Startups are challenging, time consuming and very risky. I chose to franchise because it’s less stressful. Why re-invent the wheel when you can buy into a profitable system and be very successful?
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What were you doing before you became a franchise owner?
Prior to Smoothie King, I was fresh out of college and a newlywed trying to figure out the next steps in life. I was trying to start a family and be a great wife. I never planned to open a business; I didn’t really have a plan at all. I was trying to figure out a plan, but I also wasn’t in a rush
Why did you choose this particular franchise?
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I chose Smoothie King because I love smoothies! How awesome is it to be able to sell a product that you love and that you are passionate about!
How much would you estimate you spent before you were officially open for business?
I spent about $350,000. About $150,000 went toward the cost of construction, and the rest went toward the equipment and franchise fees.
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Where did you get most of your advice/do most of your research?
I didn’t really seek advice from anyone. I could have, but I didn’t want to, simply because of my passion for the brand. I’m so deeply in love with Smoothie King that I really didn’t want anyone’s opinions. I just followed my heart.
Related: Can Fast Food Be Healthy? One Franchise Is Proving the Point and Profiting.
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What were the most unexpected challenges of opening your franchise?
The biggest obstacle I faced during the opening of my first store was construction. The construction of this location cost more than expected and took longer than I could have ever imagined.
What advice do you have for individuals who want to own their own franchise?
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If you believe in the product, you can grow with the company, and if you can afford it , you should go afford it. You can’t lose if you’re investing in your dreams.
What’s next for you and your business?
I recently decided that I want to have 20 Smoothie King locations. I’m not sure how it is all going to work out yet, but I am looking forward to the journey.
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