Smoothie Popularity

Within the past decade, smoothies have exploded onto the beverage scene. Juice bars and makers of all things smoothie have become one of the fastest-growing segments of the limited-service food and beverage industry, according to the Juice and Smoothie Association (JASA) – a trade organization dedicated to promoting the juice and smoothie industry.  While the restaurant industry is growing at only three percent, the smoothie segment is growing more than 30 percent annually.  Smoothies have by and large become popular because they taste great, offer convenience and portability, and are often a healthier treat than other snack options.

Orange Julius® has been a large part of this trend, offering a wide variety of delicious, creamy, thick smoothies made with real fruit, juices and non-fat frozen yogurt or sherbet.  The following statistics look at just how big the smoothie boom has been and how people are making smoothies a part of their everyday lives.
       
* U.S. smoothie sales are surging at $340 million annually
* In 2004, smoothie sales reached 1.5 billion, up 15.6% from 2002 and are estimated to reach 2 billion in 2005
* Smoothie sales have increased 58% between the years of 1998-2003
* Smoothies are a delicious and, in many cases, healthier, snack or fast-food alternative
* Consumers are shifting to natural products and foods that promote health
* Smoothies made with real fruit and low-fat frozen yogurt are a good source of calcium and Vitamin C
* Smoothies offer kids – young and old – a snack that is both nutritious (thanks to the fruit, juice and low-fat yogurt) and tasty
* Many people use smoothies as a meal replacement drink
* The popularity of smoothies is being likened to coffeehouses; with customers making regular visits to get their favorite treat

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