Surf City Squeeze

Surf City Squeeze

Information based on 2023 FDD

Food & Beverage · Fast Casual

Investment min
$82K
Total: $82K–$356K
Avg gross revenue
$200K
Unit-level, 2023
Franchise fee
$14K–$30K
Per current disclosure
Royalty
6%
of gross revenue
Locations
69
Franchising since 1994

Description

What is Surf City Squeeze?

Surf City Squeeze, established in 1988, has become a beloved name in the smoothie and fresh beverage industry, bringing the refreshing taste of paradise to communities across America. This fast-casual concept specializes in crafting premium, made-to-order smoothies using real fruit and high-quality ingredients, setting itself apart from competitors who rely on powdered mixes.

The menu features an impressive array of options, from signature fruit blends like Triple Berry and Peach Mango to indulgent treats such as Oreo Cream and Mocha Java Extreme. Health-conscious customers appreciate their 'Pumped Up' smoothie line, while those seeking refreshment can enjoy their fresh-squeezed lemonades and innovative Iced Chillers. The franchise also offers customizable options with various add-ins and dairy-free alternatives, catering to diverse dietary preferences.

What truly distinguishes Surf City Squeeze is their commitment to both product quality and customer experience. Their tropical-inspired branding creates an inviting atmosphere that resonates with customers seeking a healthy, refreshing escape. The concept works well in various locations, from shopping malls to standalone stores, demonstrating its versatile business model.

Franchise owners benefit from a proven operational system and a brand that has maintained customer loyalty for over three decades. With a focus on fresh ingredients, exceptional customer service, and a menu that appeals to health-conscious consumers and smoothie enthusiasts alike, Surf City Squeeze continues to thrive in the competitive beverage market. The brand's dedication to quality and customer satisfaction has earned them a reputation as one of the most trusted names in the smoothie industry.
  • 35+ years proven operational history since 1988
  • 79% lower minimum investment vs. fast-casual average
  • Kahala Management institutional backing and support
  • Made-to-order customizable menu offerings
  • Comprehensive training and ongoing operational support
  • Established 70-unit franchise network

Location Analysis

Where Surf City Squeeze wins

Surf City Squeeze maintains a notable presence across multiple states, showing strongest penetration in the Northeast corridor. The franchise's geographic distribution reveals a strategic focus on high-density urban markets, with significant market presence in New York and New Jersey representing a substantial portion of all locations. The presence of a location in the Pentagon suggests success in high-traffic, institutional venues.

The brand's average rating of 2.8 across numerous customer reviews indicates room for operational improvement, though individual location performance varies significantly. The strong performance at the Pentagon location demonstrates that well-positioned units can achieve superior customer satisfaction.

Market opportunities exist particularly in the Mid-Atlantic region, where existing clusters in Virginia and Maryland provide operational synergies. The limited presence in California suggests potential for West Coast expansion, especially in dense urban areas and institutional locations similar to successful existing units.

Prospective franchisees should focus on high-foot-traffic locations, particularly in transportation hubs, shopping centers, and institutional facilities. Demographics indicating a health-conscious, mobile consumer base with disposable income should drive location selection, while proximity to existing units can leverage brand recognition and operational efficiencies.
Total US locations
70
Franchise units
69
Corporate locations
1
Avg. sq. footage
N/A

Loading map...

Territory check

Is your territory available?

Let's find out.

try

We'll take you through a few quick questions, then Surf City Squeeze confirms availability directly.

Availability

Financial Analysis

The numbers behind Surf City Squeeze

Avg gross revenue$200,004
Investment range$82,410 – $356,000
Investment midpoint$219,205
Brand fund4%
Royalty6%
Franchise fee$14,000–$30,000
Min. net worth
Min. liquid capital
Surf City Squeeze presents an entry-level investment opportunity with total capital requirements ranging from $82,410 to $356,000, positioning it significantly below the fast-casual sub-sector averages of $406,514-$894,151. This lower barrier to entry makes it accessible to emerging entrepreneurs and first-time franchisees seeking food service opportunities without premium capital commitments.

The juice and smoothie segment benefits from growing health-conscious consumer trends and demand for convenient nutrition options. However, the reported gross revenue of $200,004 falls below the sub-sector average of $696,569, which may reflect the brand's smaller operational scale or different revenue model within the diverse fast-casual category.

With 35+ years of operational history since 1988 and 70 active units, Surf City Squeeze demonstrates established brand longevity and measured growth. The franchise operates under Kahala Management's portfolio, providing institutional franchisor experience and established support infrastructure including site selection assistance and comprehensive training programs.

The lower investment threshold appeals to investors seeking manageable entry into the growing beverage segment. Prospective franchisees should carefully evaluate local market demographics, competition from established juice chains, and consumer traffic patterns that drive success in this category.

Ideal candidates include hands-on operators with food service experience and sufficient liquid capital to sustain operations during the initial ramp-up period.
Did you know? Did you know that starting your own Surf City Squeeze franchise - bringing those refreshing smoothies, fresh juices, and California beach vibes to your community - requires a total investment between $82,410 and $356,000, which covers everything from the franchise fee and equipment to build-out costs, with the wide range reflecting factors like location size, real estate costs, and whether you're opening in a mall kiosk or standalone storefront?

Financing partners

Vetted partners, tailored to franchisees

Your Franzy advisor can connect you with these partners later in the process — competitive rates, specialized in franchise financing.

FranFund

Lender

CRF USA

Nonprofit SBA lender; provides financing for franchise acquisitions, startups, and expansion.

Lender

First Bank of the Lake

Lender

Pension Pros

Lender

FDD Item 7

Initial investment range

$82K–$356K
Most common
$82,410
Minimum
$219,205
Midpoint
$356,000
Maximum

Per FDD Item 7, total initial investment ranges from $82,410 to $356,000. The midpoint $219,205 is what most franchisees report at signing — financing typically reduces cash-at-close by 80–90%. Knowing the investment range helps you plan confidently and ensure you're fully prepared to make the leap.

FDD Item 19

Average gross sales

$250K$200K$150K$100K$50KN/A
$182K
$200K
2021
2022
2023
Avg
$127K
YOY change (2022 -> 2023)
+10%

According to Item 19 of the Franchise Disclosure Document, Surf City Squeeze has an average gross revenue of $200K. (Note: This information is based on the latest FDD in our records. Please review the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) and confirm this information directly with the brand. We make no claims of accuracy for the information presented.)

Growth over time

Franchise footprint

-5% YoY
100806040200
2016
2017
2018
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
70 units open as of 2023 FDD-4 in last 12 mo

2023 Franchise Disclosure

FDD documents

Below are items 2, 3, 4, 7, 11 and 19 for Surf City Squeeze's 2023 FDD. The complete FDD is delivered to you directly by the franchisor, per the FTC Franchise Rule.

Estimated initial investment
FDD Item 7 · PDF
Financial performance representations
FDD Item 19 · PDF
Members-only items
Executive team
FDD Item 2 · PDF
Litigation
FDD Item 3 · PDF
Bankruptcy
FDD Item 4 · PDF
Franchisor assistance
FDD Item 11 · PDF
Members only
Unlock the 2023 FDD

Connect to download Items 2, 3, 4, and 11 — direct from the franchisor.

Buyer FAQs

Frequently asked questions

The initial investment for a Surf City Squeeze franchise typically ranges between $82,410.00 and $356,000.00. This includes the franchise fee, equipment, real estate, and other startup costs. To get a detailed breakdown and better understand the financial requirements, we recommend scheduling a call with the Franzy team. We'll walk you through the specifics and answer any questions you might have. For more detailed information, refer to the financial sections of the FDD.

Disclaimer. The information provided on this page is based on the latest Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) that is publicly available and that we have on record, which was issued in 2023. This information is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal, financial, or business advice. We make no guarantees or claims regarding the completeness or accuracy. For the most current and detailed information, we recommend consulting the franchisor directly for the most recent FDD and regarding any questions that you may have about the information provided.

Surf City Squeeze
Surf City Squeeze
$200K avg revenue · 69+ US franchises

Franchises for you

Other brands in the same vertical and investment band — recommendations based on what you've explored.

Spotlight

Franchisor Image
Franzy Verified

Lee's Famous Recipe Chicken

Food & Beverage

Gross Revenue$2,172,042
Min Investment$850,000
Founded1966
Franchise Units94+

Spotlight

Franchisor Image
Franzy Verified

Frios Gourmet Pops

Food & Beverage

Gross RevenueN/A
Min Investment$64,584
Founded2018
Franchise Units115+
Franchisor Image
Franzy Verified

Clusters Handcrafted Popcorn

Food & Beverage

Gross Revenue$274,576
Min Investment$170,800
Founded2017
Franchise Units5+
Franchisor Image
Franzy Verified

Tea Bar - Mobile Unit

Food & Beverage

Gross RevenueN/A
Min Investment$95,000
Founded2014
Franchise UnitsN/A
Franchisor Image
Franzy Verified

Tea Bar

Food & Beverage

Gross RevenueN/A
Min Investment$266,037
Founded2014
Franchise UnitsN/A
Franchisor Image
Franzy Verified

3Natives Acai Cafe

Food & Beverage

Gross Revenue$947,071
Min Investment$310,000
Founded2013
Franchise Units42+
Franchisor Image
Franzy Verified

Goodness Bowls

Food & Beverage

Gross RevenueN/A
Min Investment$325,119
Founded2019
Franchise Units5+
Franchisor Image
Franzy Verified

Breadless

Food & Beverage

Gross RevenueN/A
Min Investment$439,202
Founded2025
Franchise UnitsN/A