Maui Wowi Celebrates 35 Years by Giving Back

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., July 30, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- In the early 1980s Jill Summerhays wanted to provide for her 'Ohana (family) so she opened the first Maui Wowi Hawaiian, a Hawaiian-themed smoothie hut offering a healthy alternative to the sugary and fat laden foods that were seemingly everywhere. Fast forward three and a half decades, and the franchise is spending 2018 celebrating its 35^th anniversary.  

The premium Hawaiian coffee and smoothie franchise has a lot to celebrate in its 35^th year; since 1983 it has grown to 450 franchise units globally and has sold upwards of 45 million smoothies. But instead of a traditional promotion or party to commemorate its anniversary, Maui Wowi is putting the focus towards the 'Ohana, though this time a much larger one – the people of Hawaii.

From July 30 to August 31, 2018, participating Maui Wowi carts, concession trailers, and brick-and-mortar locations will have a donation box where guests can donate to Red Cross of Hawaii's relief fund for those impacted by the continued eruption of the Kilauea Volcano. The money raised will go toward providing shelter, relief supplies and comfort to those affected.

The Kilauea Volcano began erupting on May 3, and in two short months it has claimed more than 600 homes on the Big Island. Lava and smoke has engulfed homes, schools and small businesses. The peaceful island state has served as a major inspiration for Maui Wowi throughout the brand's 35 year history, and the franchise system couldn't sit idly by as it watched the Big Island in trouble.   

"One of the best things about Maui Wowi is the importance every corporate team member, franchise owner, and employee places on the concept of 'Ohana and supporting the community around us," said Mike Weinberger, brand president. "We are proud that we are able to use our anniversary as a way to spread awareness and garner donations for what is happening on the Big Island. We invite all new and longtime fans of the Maui Wowi brand help us celebrate by pitching in anything they can – from a couple cents to a couple of dollars. Cheers to another 35 years of serving delicious smoothies and coffees, and always being there for the 'Ohana."

About Maui Wowi
Since 1983, Maui Wowi^® has embraced the Hawaiian culture and has been serving paradise in a cup since the day it began, 35 years ago. From event carts, mall kiosks and stand-alone retail locations, Maui Wowi offers premium smoothies, as well as gourmet Hawaiian coffees and espresso beverages. The company maintains strong community involvement through fundraising efforts by its franchisees, in addition to Team Karma; an initiative that promotes corporate responsibility and giving back to the community. The brand has more than 450 operating units and an online store. In November 2015, Maui Wowi was acquired by Kahala Brands™, one of the fastest growing franchising companies in the world with a portfolio of 27 quick-service restaurant brands and approximately 2900 locations in 28 countries.

For more information about Maui Wowi, visit www.MauiWowi.com.

For more information about Kahala Brands, visit www.KahalaBrands.com.

SOURCE Maui Wowi

Related Links

http://www.MauiWowi.com