Starfruit Starts Franchising

If you have never heard of kefir, you’re not alone, but definitely in the minority.

RedOrbit reported Lifeway Foods, a manufacturer of kefir and a provider of other natural and organic dairy products, has announced that it is franchising its Starfruit kefir boutique cafe. According to the company, the new retail concept debuted in April 2008 in Chicago and serves as a prototype for its national franchise program. The shop offers several flavors of frozen kefir with over 20 toppings as well as customized kefir parfaits, and smoothie-style kefir drinks.

"Since announcing the initial opening of Starfruit, we have been bombarded with requests for franchise opportunities from all over the country,” said Julie Smolyansky, president and CEO of Lifeway Foods. “Starfruit will capitalize on the renewed popularity of frozen yogurt shops while offering a healthier alternative with all the probiotic benefits of kefir and franchising the concept can help us grow the brand quickly."