Just six years after opening, Peet’s Coffee & Tea on Judge Ely Boulevard is closing its doors. A Red Mango franchise will take its place later this year.
“We know frozen yogurt has become a popular family treat, and Red Mango is one of the healthiest in its category,” said Wes Jackson, chief merchandising officer for United Supermarkets, LLC.
Red Mango serves all-natural, non-fat, gluten-free, frozen desserts and was named as the No. 1 Smoothie and Frozen Yogurt in Zagat’s 2011 National Chains Survey, beating out top competitors, Pinkberry, Jamba Juice, Smoothie King and TCBY.
“Both United and Red Mango share a commitment to the health and wellness of our guests, so we feel this is a natural fit. We are excited to offer our guests a unique in-store experience with Red Mango,” Jackson said.
“I am totally fine with a smoothie place,” said Madelyn Robinett, sophomore family studies major from Amarillo. “But I think it sounds like a fad like the frozen yogurt thing was. I am definitely a coffee person.”
Peet’s may have failed to gain popularity with some students, Â but others, including senior political science major, Daniel Borrego, will be sad to see Peet’s go.
“Since I moved off campus, I’ve stopped at Peet’s in the morning to get my coffee. It’s how I start my day,” Borrego said.
The Red Mango counter will continue to serve Arriba! coffee, United’s house brand, in the deli prior to the opening. The Judge Ely store will be the first United location to house Red Mango. Construction is set to begin inside the store Feb. 13.
“We believe that Red Mango and Arriba! will resonate with our Abilene guests and are delighted to be offering these new services,” Jackson said.
Red Mango is the first frozen yogurt retailer to earn the National Yogurt Association’s Live and Active Cultures seal for meeting the required criteria for healthy frozen yogurt.
