On Monday, a Southern California-based juice bar franchise called Nékter confirmed the first two of at least five outposts locally. As if the region was lacking in a concentration of destinations for freshly made juice.
One Nékter is scheduled to open in South Tampa in late August at 4001 W. Kennedy Blvd. — next door to the new Metro Diner — while Valrico will see the debut of another at 3482 Lithia Pinecrest Road — where a Starbucks used to be at the Lithia Crossing shopping center — sometime in September. But both, which mark the franchise’s initial West Florida locations, are owned and operated by Scott Hileman, a Tampa resident and former professional soccer player.
With more than 100 locations across the country, Nékter specializes in a customizable lineup of nutrient-rich juices, superfood smoothies and acai bowls. Hileman plans to launch his five sites throughout the Tampa area in the coming years. Good thing, too, because the franchise aims to expand its Florida footprint over the next several.
“As a former professional athlete, I personally understand the power of healthy living and that starts with what we put in our bodies,” said Hileman in a statement. “As I’ve traveled the country, I’ve been a loyal fan of Nékter Juice Bar for years, and when I learned they were expanding nationally, I knew I had to bring this truly authentic brand to my hometown.
“We can’t wait to the open the doors of our first two Nékter Juice Bars later this summer.”
Nékter’s offerings are meant to “optimize overall health and wellness” with help from nutrients and vitamins that the franchise believes increase energy, boost immunity and detoxify the body, among other benefits.
There’s even vegan ice cream accompanying the bowls, smoothies and juices. Similar to much of the Néktar menu, Skoop — as the frozen treat is known — doesn’t contain ingredients like refined sugars or preservatives.
