Robeks, a US smoothie chain, has opened its first international franchise store in Dublin. Franchisee Thomas Jones has opened the first Irish Robeks on Lord Edward St, Dublin. He has signed a 10-year franchise agreement with Robeks to develop stores throughout Ireland.

Robeks, which was founded in the US in 1996, serves made-to-order smoothies, wraps and salads, wheatgrass and power muffins. The Irish store also sells scones and hot green tea, as well as pure 100 per cent juices that appeal to local tastes.

"Smoothies are not new to Irish tastes, as there has been a focus on health and wellness in Ireland for some time," said Sheri Miksa, Robeks President and CEO. "We are pleased consumers can now sample an authentic Robeks smoothie with its distinctive creamy texture, not unlike the frothy tops of Ireland's famous ales. While Dublin, Ireland is our first venture into Europe, we expect it will be the first of many in the region. Of course, we're aggressively pursuing our 500 store target right here in America."