For a concept centered on blended beverages, keeping noise in check is as much a consideration as functionality when choosing equipment. “If you have four or five [standard] blenders going, you can’t hear the person taking your order. It’s really loud,” says Davis Jaeger, food scientist and product development manager of Smoothie King.
Yet, it’s not an all-or-nothing proposition. “We’re a lively brand and our cafes are upbeat,” says Lake Dawson, product development chef for Tropical Smoothie Cafe. “We found that we really liked a little bit of the noise from the blenders, because it helps fold the consumer into the culture of the on-the-move, active lifestyle.”
As dedicated juice and smoothie bars rise in popularity in a variety of noncommercial venues, the latest technology can make a big difference in keeping service running smoothly. Here are five standouts and their special features.