Construction has just begun on a new building at The Pointe at Barclay that, among other tenants, will house a location of I Love Juice Bar.

Local franchise owners Stephannie Perrin and Blake Jensen, longtime friends and co-workers who recently earned MBAs, said they were looking for an opportunity to start a business that would promote healthy living.

Perrin, who describes herself as a vegetarian health food advocate, began researching franchise opportunities that would allow her to combine her business experience and her passion for healthy eating. 

After learning about I Love Juice Bar, Perrin and Jensen traveled to Nashville, I Love Juice Bar's home base, for the company’s Discovery Day and to meet with founders Vui and John Hunt. Perrin said she and Jensen were so inspired by their meeting with the Hunts and their visits to the Nashville-area locations, that they knew this was the right company for them to invest in.

After an extensive search of the Wilmington area, Perrin and Jensen decided on The Pointe at Barclay in midtown, based upon its accessibility. 

“This location really provides the best access for the target market we are looking for,” Perrin said.

I Love Juice Bar specializes in plant-based juices, smoothies and meals, using organic produce as much as possible. The quick-service menu varies a bit from location to location, but often includes soups, salads and grain bowls, as well as spring rolls and Pad Thai noodles. 

There are currently nearly 50 locations nationwide, with three in the Charlotte area and the most recent North Carolina location in Wake Forest.  A June opening is anticipated.

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