Smoothie Factory + Kitchen and Red Mango are both getting ready to make their Arizona debuts next year after signing a multi-unit development deal.
Dallas-based BRIX Holdings, LLC recently announced four new franchise deals, bringing Red Mango and Smoothie Factory + Kitchen locations to Arizona and Missouri for the first time, according to a press release. BRIX signed a multi-unit development deal with franchise owner Richard Stassi to open three Smoothie Factory + Kitchen and Red Mango co-branded stores within the next three years. The agreement’s first co-branded frozen yogurt and smoothie location is set to open in early 2025.
“I’m currently the owner of two Jimmy John’s franchise locations in Arizona with my sons,” Richard Stassi said in a press release. “When we were looking to expand our portfolio, we knew what we wanted in another business. It was important to us that we invested in a reputable company that operates efficiently and has high-quality products that people love, and we found that with our co-branded Smoothie Factory + Kitchen and Red Mango locations. I wanted something that would last for my sons and our family, and we’re thrilled to start this journey within our community over the next three years as the first of this brand in the Greater Phoenix and Scottsdale areas.”
The restaurant franchisor, which encompasses several renowned food-service chains including Friendly’s, Red Mango, Orange Leaf, Smoothie Factory + Kitchen, and recently acquired Clean Juice, also signed the fourth deal with franchisee Gary Patel who will open a Red Mango in Kansas City, Missouri, as the state’s pioneer franchisee for the brand. Patel’s location is slated to open in early 2025.
The new franchise operators provide new market entry opportunities for BRIX as the portfolio company continues to prioritize expansion. Stassi and Patel bring with them a passion for knowledge and dedication to success to their businesses. Stassi is a retired NYPD officer, operating a growing business portfolio in Arizona with the help of his sons. Patel is a first-time business owner. Together, their business insight, experience, and knowledge of their communities unify them to drive success and make a difference in their respective markets, making them ideal franchisees for the BRIX brands.
“Expanding into new markets with our Smoothie Factory + Kitchen and Red Mango brands is the promising momentum we expect to see as we continue our growth and development plans for our brands across the nation. We look forward to the catalyst the new franchisees will have for their markets and the experiences they will bring to their communities,” Sherif Mityas, CEO of BRIX Holdings LLC, said in a press release. “The journey in Arizona and Missouri is just the beginning of tapping into new entrepreneurial talent and expanding our mission.”
