Smoothie King, the innovator of the juice and smoothie segment and fast-growing purveyor of “Smoothies With a Purpose,” closed out the first quarter of 2015 with agreements signed for 42 new units. The brand is well on its way to meeting its goal of signing agreements for 160 new locations this year.

“Smoothie King had a huge year in 2014, and we’re thrilled the momentum has continued into 2015,” said Dan Hannah, Vice President of International and Domestic Business Development for Smoothie King. “Growth like this is what will allow us to hit 1,000 locations by 2017 and help spread our message of a healthy, active lifestyle across the U.S. and abroad.”

Twenty stores opened in Q1, and the brand entered new markets including Phoenix, Las Vegas, Birmingham, Little Rock and Rome, Ga.

Meanwhile, existing stores also continued their growth, with Q1 same-store sales 10.4 percent higher year-over-year.

Smoothie King is ready to enter even more untapped markets in Q2, with plans to open in Madison, Wis., Austin, Albany, Ga., Herndon, Va., Tucson and Mesa, Ariz. The brand plans to sign agreements for 50 new units and open 20 stores during the second quarter.

“Smoothie King has seen huge growth in recent years, and we’re paving the way for an even bigger 2015,” said Wan Kim, CEO of Smoothie King. “Our franchisees don’t just have a fire for succeeding in business, they’re passionate about growing a brand that helps people. When your ambassadors care as much about your brand as you do, expanding into new areas and serving new guests is easy.”

Smoothie King plans to open two locations every week during 2015, focusing on growth opportunities in new markets and by working with franchisees who truly believe in bringing a delicious, nutritious meal-replacement solution to their communities. With the right products and strategies in place, the brand is on track to continue its industry dominance and provide guests around the globe with superior smoothies and service in Q2 and beyond.