Smoothie King is more than a smoothie brand — it’s a wellness-driven story that began with purpose. Founded in 1973, the brand was born from a personal health journey and evolved into a global movement focused on nutrition, active lifestyles, and everyday performance. What started with one blender and a clear mission now inspires millions to Rule the Day.
A brand born from personal health
Smoothie King was founded by Steve Kuhnau, who struggled with food allergies and health challenges. In search of a solution, he began blending real fruits, proteins, and essential nutrients to support his well-being — long before smoothies became a global trend.
These early blends weren’t about indulgence or convenience. They were designed with function in mind, setting the foundation for a brand centered on feeling better, every single day.
From a single concept to franchised growth
In 1989, Smoothie King opened its first franchised location in New Orleans, marking the transition from a personal solution to a scalable business model. The franchise approach allowed the brand to grow while staying aligned with its wellness-first philosophy.
As consumer interest in healthier food options increased, Smoothie King positioned itself not as fast food, but as a daily partner for active and health-conscious lifestyles.
Global expansion with a wellness focus
By 2003, Smoothie King expanded internationally, entering markets such as South Korea. This move proved that its performance-based approach to nutrition resonated beyond the U.S., translating across cultures and lifestyles.
Rather than adapting to convenience-driven norms, the brand doubled down on ingredient transparency, functional blends, and purpose-led messaging.
A new era of leadership and momentum
In 2012, Wan Kim took leadership of Smoothie King, accelerating its global growth and modernizing the brand. Under his direction, Smoothie King reinforced its commitment to wellness, quality ingredients, and long-term lifestyle alignment.
This period marked a strategic shift — transforming Smoothie King from a smoothie chain into a wellness-driven brand with cultural relevance.
From smoothies to a global wellness movement
By 2018, Smoothie King surpassed 1,000 locations worldwide, solidifying its position as a global wellness leader. Despite its scale, the brand maintained a clear mission: helping people live healthier, more active lives.
Guided by its motto, “Rule the Day,” Smoothie King continues to position wellness as a daily choice — empowering consumers to take control of their energy, performance, and routines.
FAQs about this campaign
When was Smoothie King founded?
Smoothie King was founded in 1973, starting as a personal health-focused approach to blending fruits, proteins, and nutrients.
Where did Smoothie King’s franchising begin?
The brand opened its first franchise in 1989 in New Orleans, helping scale the concept beyond its original roots.
When did Smoothie King expand internationally?
Smoothie King began international expansion in 2003, entering markets such as South Korea.
Who led Smoothie King’s modern growth era?
Wan Kim took leadership in 2012 and accelerated global growth while reinforcing the brand’s wellness and active lifestyle focus.
What does “Rule the Day” mean for Smoothie King?
“Rule the Day” reflects the brand’s mission to inspire healthier, more active routines by supporting everyday energy, performance, and wellness.
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