After years of working corporate jobs in Manhattan, Brandon and Deena Korman longed to give up their suits and commutes for a more laid-back lifestyle.

When Deena’s parents relocated to Wilmington they began visiting and fell in love with the area.
 
“We loved the easy going nature of the people here and felt at home right away,” said Brandon Korman.  “We’ve never looked back.”

The Kormans opened Tropical Smoothie Café July 13 in Long Leaf Mall. After a great deal of research, the Kormans were drawn to the Tropical Smoothie Café franchise because of the menu. While the list of smoothies, all prepared with fresh fruits and vegetables, is extensive, the menu also includes all-day breakfast, tacos, salads and sandwiches. Catering is also available.

“I like to think we can provide the island lifestyle 30 minutes at a time,” said Korman.

The 1,700-square-foot café seats 32 on the inside and an additional 12 on the patio.
The Tropical Smoothie Café franchise network consists of 380 stores in 38 states, with North Carolina being the company’s fourth-biggest market. The Kormans purchased the rights to Wilmington and the surrounding areas and hope to expand to three or four more locations in the next few years.

“We really want to be a part of the community, participate in fundraisers, find ways to be involved and give back,” said Korman.

Tropical Smoothie Café will run several promotions over the next couple of months including 99 cent smoothies with the purchase of a food item and chances to win free smoothies for a year.  A grand opening celebration is planned for August 9 with a live radio broadcast from 102.7 WGNI, games and prizes.

Tropical Smoothie Café is located at 2804 South College Road.

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