Changing the Smoothie Industry
The proverb “Necessity is the mother of invention” was true for Isaac Hamlin.
As an athlete at the University of Kentucky in 2018, Isaac searched for an alternative to the heavy, calorie-laden options served for his team’s pre-game meals. In search of the most efficient way to meet his nutritional needs, Isaac began creating Blends—smoothies packed with essential protein, vitamins, minerals, and complex carbohydrates, all while avoiding empty calories and excess fat.
The recipes helped. Isaac was named a first-team Southeastern Conference All-American.
Knowing that he had a successful idea, Isaac started his company, Better Blend, before he even graduated from college.
Isaac continued to expand his smoothie recipes and opened his first retail location near his hometown in Northern Kentucky. Business was brisk, and Isaac’s parents and sister were his first employees. This helped keep costs low as Isaac added more flavors to the Better Blend menu.
Then the COVID-19 virus spread like wildfire in 2020, closing businesses nationwide. Like millions of other small business owners, Isaac applied for an SBA COVID-19 EIDL (Economic Injury Disaster Loan), as well as an EIDL Advance and an SBA Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) forgivable loan so the company could survive.
As the pandemic subsided, Better Blend did not just survive. It thrived. Customers clamored for Isaac’s smoothie shakes and smoothie bowls more than ever. Isaac and his family saw an opportunity to add more company stores. And customers began inquiring about franchise opportunities.
Better Blend now has seven company stores and franchise locations across Northern Kentucky, Louisville and Lexington, plus seven cities in Southern and Central Ohio. Three more locations will soon be open. And the management team is evaluating other markets across the region.
The Better Blend menu board includes over 20 flavors of smoothies, bowls and snacks, available at all locations or by delivery. All are “low sugar, high protein and nutrient rich.”
And there is now a Better Blend “Blend Box” of smoothie make-at-home packets for meals or snacks that can be made in minutes. Plus, smoothie bowls are now available as a catering option for breakfast, lunch, school events, birthdays, weddings, or going back to Isaac’s initial concept, pre-game meals.
Better Blend’s goal has been to “revolutionize fast food and change the narrative that fast food is unhealthy.” They have been successful at achieving that goal. This family-owned business continues to grow and evolve. And SBA stands ready to assist Better Blend every step of their journey.
Isaac stated: “Better Blend's mission is about making the world a happier and healthier place. We do that by redefining healthy smoothies and creating a welcoming and empowering environment for everyone. Without the guidance and support from the SBA, Better Blend would have never been able to help as many people as it does today.”