Tropical Smoothie Cafe, the leading national fast-casual cafe concept known for both its better-for-you smoothies and food with a tropical twist, today announces the appointment of Charles Watson as its new Chief Executive Officer. Watson will lead the brand through its next phase of strategic growth. As CEO, Watson's goal is to achieve $1 billion in sales and more than 1,500 cafes by 2023.

"Charles has the tenacity, vision and passion this brand needs to continue our upward trajectory and will ensure the success of our franchisees is at the center of every decision we make," said Scott Pressly, Chairman of the Board, Tropical Smoothie Cafe. "He has been instrumental in developing the culture of Tropical Smoothie Cafe and earning the trust of our franchisees. We look forward to realizing Charles' vision for the company."

Watson has more than 10 years of experience with Tropical Smoothie Cafe and led the company's franchise development efforts since 2010. He has been the Chief Development Officer since 2015 and directly responsible for selling more than 800 franchises during his tenure with the company.

"I am overjoyed to have the opportunity to lead such an incredible brand that has truly become a part of my DNA over many years," said Watson. "I am forever grateful to our franchisees, support center team and our Board of Directors for their confidence in me as the leader who can guide Tropical Smoothie Cafe into a new era."

For more information about Tropical Smoothie Cafe, please visit www.tropicalsmoothiecafe.com.

About Tropical Smoothie Cafe

Tropical Smoothie Cafe is a national fast-casual cafe concept inspiring healthier lifestyles across the country with more than 720 locations nationwide. Serving better-for-you smoothies, wraps, sandwiches, and flatbreads, Tropical Smoothie Cafe also offers upgraded app technology and enhanced mobile ordering capabilities to further elevate the digital and dine-in cafe experience and emphasize the brand's focus on convenience. The rapidly growing franchise has received numerous accolades including rankings in QSR's Best Franchise Deals, Entrepreneur's Franchise 500, Forbes' Best Franchises and Fast Casual's Top 100 Movers and Shakers in 2018, as well as Franchise Times' Top 200+ and Nation's Restaurant News' Fastest Growing Chains in 2018.