Booster Juice has opened its first drive-thru location, marking a new operating format for the Canadian smoothie chain as it looks to add convenience for customers and expand how its stores function.
The company said the drive-thru location opened Monday, Jan. 5, at the St. Clair Shores Shopping Centre in Lakeshore, Ont. With more than 470 locations across Canada, the company described the opening as a significant step for the franchise system.
New store format targets convenience
The drive-thru is housed in a standalone building of approximately 1,400 square feet and includes a double-lane drive-thru. The location also serves walk-in customers, similar to existing Booster Juice stores.
Franchise Partner Ana Bezarevic said the format is designed to respond to changing customer habits.
“Customers seem to have less time nowadays, and this just sets us up to save our customers the need to go into our stores for a more convenient experience,” said Bezarevic.
The Lakeshore location features five digital screens displaying current promotions and campaigns, as well as the full menu, allowing customers to place orders from their vehicles. The company said the layout was designed to support speed and quality of service.
Strategy and leadership perspective
President, CEO and founder Dale Wishewan said the drive-thru reflects the company’s longer-term approach to accessibility and customer service.
“Our goal has always been to make healthy food more accessible,” said Wishewan. “With this drive-thru location, we’re bringing our fresh, healthy products to our customers in a fast, convenient way, and with great customer service.”
The company said the drive-thru model is an extension of its existing operations rather than a replacement. The Lakeshore site continues to accommodate walk-in traffic while adding vehicle-based ordering.
Store details and operations
The drive-thru is located at 29 Amy Croft Drive in Lakeshore, Ont., within the St. Clair Shores Shopping Centre. The company said the building was designed specifically to support drive-thru traffic, with infrastructure intended to manage ordering flow and reduce wait times.
Booster Juice said the location maintains the same menu offered at traditional stores, including smoothies, wraps, paninis, Booster Balls, and freshly prepared shots and beverages. The company noted that the primary difference from existing locations is the addition of the drive-thru service.
After 26 years in operation, the company said it continues to focus on adapting its store formats while maintaining its existing menu and service model.
Development and local involvement
The project involved collaboration with the property’s landlord and developer, Steven Valente, who said the store represents a milestone for the brand.
“Congratulations to the entire Booster Juice team on the opening of this truly historic drive-thru store,” said Valente. “The result is something truly special, and it’s inspiring to see the excitement and momentum this store has already generated.”
Company background
Founded in 1999, Booster Juice describes itself as Canada’s original juice and smoothie bar. The company operates in every province and territory and positions its business around providing food and beverages for customers with active lifestyles.
The company said it continues to focus on developing new products while maintaining its existing service approach as it operates within the quick-service restaurant sector.
The Lakeshore drive-thru represents the first time Booster Juice has introduced this store format within its Canadian network, as the company tests new ways to serve customers across its national footprint.
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