If you’ve ever looked at the fruitier side of a Starbucks menu, then you’re probably familiar with the drink that was introduced by the specialty coffee chain: refreshers. The beverage combines real fruit juice with green coffee extract to provide a delightful and energizing experience. Since these refreshers have grown in popularity, a few have tried to duplicate the flavor to compete with the original. Only now is there another truly refreshing option.
Dr. Smoothie’s Refreshers are now available through Houston’s! This brand new line boasts real fruit flavor and the natural energy boost from coffee, without that toasty taste often associated with the bean, leaving you with a thirst-quenching, caffeinated beverage for any time of day. In honor of this exciting new product launch, we decided to investigate what has made this product so popular amongst consumers, as well as how Dr. Smoothie’s iteration on the recipe has improved upon the established flavored water craze.
It’s no secret that better-for-you products are quickly on the rise amongst Americans, with 43% saying that nutritional information is important to their diet. Along with that, 90% of Americans consume caffeine on a daily basis, but new evidence is showing that many are looking for alternatives to coffee that provide a reduced level of caffeine and no midday crash. Dr. Smoothie’s Refreshers offer an option for both of these groups. With limited, natural ingredients (and a calorie/sugar count that’s lower than the leading competition’s), Dr. Smoothie’s Refreshers are the obvious choice for a growing population that is dedicated to maintaining a healthy diet while continuing to enjoy a specialty coffee experience.
An increasing number of consumers also expect a personalized experience when they order a beverage from a specialty coffee operator. Whether it’s the latte art finish or a barista’s knowledge of a regular’s typical order, the ability to impress the consumer with more than a speedy caffeine solution establishes loyalty between customer and cafe. This was a central insight in developing the Dr. Smoothie Refreshers line. Instead of producing a ready-to-drink solution, these concentrates provide opportunity for the operator to craft (perhaps even customize, per the consumer’s order) a beverage behind the counter, creating a sense of quality and specialty to the product. Of course, we all know that enhancing and elevating the flavored water experience isn’t everything. It’s also important for the product’s preparation to remain simple for the establishment.
Preparing a finished Dr. Smoothie Refresher beverage only takes two steps and only requires two ingredients: Refresher concentrate and water. Here’s how it’s done.
By keeping the typical recipe simple, operators will be able to make multiple refreshers in a short time frame and with a limited cost of production. However, this also allows operators to experiment with different recipes or to customize a refresher to the consumer’s specifications. Looking for something with a little fizz? Top the mixture off with a bit of soda or add some fresh fruit and herbs to really make it taste and feel like a craft drink! Here are just a few other recipes operators might try.
With all of the possibility offered by Dr. Smoothie’s three launch flavors (Wildberry Hibiscus, Watermelon Cucumber Mint, and Strawberry Acai), there is certain to be something that operators and consumers will enjoy, but Dr. Smoothie isn’t planning on stopping there. Soon, they will be adding a fourth flavor to the mix, so stay tuned for more information on Blood Orange Coconut Ginger!
