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Have you been part of the popular food craze involving the superfruit, the acai (ah-sigh-EE) berry? That craze is nowhere near over. In fact, if anything, the tiny purple fruit is gaining in popularity. The acai berry market was valued at $712 million in 2017, and it is expected to grow at a steady rate of 12.71% through 2025.
These tiny berries harvested from acai palm trees, grown in the wild in the Amazon rain forest, pack a wallop. They are only about two centimeters in diameter but they are rich in antioxidants and are used to help lower bad cholesterol, improve brain function and hydrate the skin. Although commonplace for Brazilians to eat them several times a day, here in the U.S. they came onto the scene in the 90’s and the acai berry craze grew. Acai is most commonly served as the base of a healthy blended smoothie or bowl full of other fruits, and customizable toppings like granola.
Acai Popularity
So how does a fruit gain so much attention? What is the acai berry’s claim to fame? It was introduced in the states in the 90’s then grabbed the spotlight in the early 2000’s thanks to social media. In particular, acai became an Instagram sensation when influencers and celebrities posted pics and popularized hashtags of healthy acai bowls and smoothies. Face it, acai has it all. It tastes delicious, has health benefits, and is filling—a triple threat in Hollywood!
#Acai on Social Media
All it takes is those powerful little hashtags to turn a little purple berry into gold. For example, on Instagram, #acai has 2.9 million posts, #acaibowl has 1.8 million posts—on a platform now used by abillion people. This platform is the place to post food pics, often propelling restaurants into popularity thanks to the free publicity garnered from the promotion of influencer pics and hashtags.
The acai trend on social media gained momentum when actress Gwyneth Paltrow, the creator of lifestyle brand Goop which has more than 1.5 million followers, shared her chia acai bowl recipe. Another actress, Camila Mendes, from the popular show “Riverdale”, tested acai bowl recipes. Even the duch*ess of Sussex, Meghan Markle, shared her favorite acai smoothie bowl. But perhaps the biggest boost came from celebrity influencer Kim Kardashian, who has 302 million followers, shared her favorite acai bowl recipe.
Acai Health Benefits
But don’t just take Kim Kardashians word for it. Nutritionists say acai is full of antioxidants, omega 3’s fiber, and healthy fats. In moderation, it can be part of a well-balanced diet.
Medical specialists agree that diets rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatories can lower risk factors in many age-related diseases like Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. Although there is no cure for those diseases, the antioxidant anthocyanin,found in acai berries, is believed to lower oxidative stress and inflammation helping with brain health and improving memory.
Preliminary studies also show that the components found in the acai berry may support heart health and weight loss because of the fiber, antioxidants and healthy cholesterol. And beauty experts tout the little berry’s ability to keep skin clear and healthy.
Business Opportunities with Acai
With more Americans interested in losing weight, staying strong and healthy and improving their wellness lifestyle, plant-based diets using superfoods like the acai berry are here to stay. Which means, if you are interested in being part of the acai trend, this is a good time to invest in a business opportunity.
At SoBol we’ve been part of the acai berry craze since 2013 and are experiencing strong growth because of it. Our franchise business model is showing great success with 59 units and more on the way.
SoBol is a bowl and smoothie café serving up healthy fruits and vegetables from local farms when in season. We have a completely customizable menu delivering heart-healthy, all natural and fresh products for any diet.
If you want to knowhow to start an acai bowl business, look no further. At SoBol, we have an effective franchise model for you to follow, along with our support to guide you every step of the way.
From a franchising standpoint, our operations are simple, focused and repeatable. Our franchise locations are seeing $594,000 in average store revenue and we are dedicated to your success as a franchisee with SoBol. We provide top notch training and on-going support to get your location up and running with the greatest profit potential.
The time is now to be part of a business that’s part of the acai trend.Sign upnow to learn more about becoming part of the SoBol family.
