Tropical Smoothie Cafe Signs 40-Unit Development Deal for New York and Connecticut

The Deal

Tropical Smoothie Cafe has signed a 40-unit development agreement covering New York and Connecticut with Aurify Kingstar, a newly formed entity led by Aurify Brands partners Andy Stern, John Rigos and Jeremy Tannenbaum, as announced on 20 October 2026.

Key Facts

• Units: 40 cafés across New York and Connecticut.

• First opening: Expected in the first quarter of 2027.

• System size: The Blackstone-backed chain is on course to open its 1,800th location before the end of 2026.

• Undisclosed terms: Investment and development cost figures were not released.

Why It Matters

The agreement is one of the brand's largest Northeast commitments and moves a Southeast-built franchise system into a higher-cost operating region through an experienced multi-brand operator.

Source: Franchising.com, 20 Oct 2026; Franchise Herald.