CHESTERMERE– “Do good, eat good” reads a vivid green sign tucked inside the front corner of the newest business to announce its presence in town.
True to its mantra, the Chestermere Jugo Juice celebrated its grand opening on June 11 by offering free drinks and collecting money for the Alberta Kids Cancer Care Foundation. And, despite the rainy weather, members of the community still packed the store-front location on John Morris Way.
“We want to show our support for the community and I think it’s great everyone came out to make a donation toward a great cause,” said owner Ramandeep Behla.
Julia Petrovic, 11, and Tina J., 10, appeared visibly juiced-up after getting their free smoothies. Both said they enjoyed the drinks, with “Summer Strawberry” and “Mango Magic” being their favourites, respectively.
The girls also said they stay active by running, biking, skating, swimming, playing soccer and jumping on trampolines. They agreed eating healthy is an important part of staying healthy.
“I like eating healthy and not being a coach potato,” Petrovic said.
The Chestermere Jugo Juice actually opened earlier this year, however, Behla said he waited to host a summer opening party. Although admitting the “weather didn’t co-operate” on opening day, Behla said he’s still “very, very excited” to have a location in town.
“I’m very comfortable with this community,” said Behla, who’s lived in town for four years. “It’s been a great start for the new location.”
He later added: “The customers seem extremely excited. We got involved in the community so fast, so they’re happy. We have received all positive responses.”
Behla said he’s also planning on offering free smoothies to students at Prairie Waters Elementary and Rainbow Creek Elementary schools in the future.
Jessica Janzen, manager of training and brand standards for Jugo Juice, said she thinks the store’s close proximity to the boat launch, combined with the town’s need for a healthy alternative beverage, makes it a good fit in Chestermere. Behla is a good franchise partner, she added, because he already lives in the area.
“Ramandeep is very passionate about the Jugo Juice business,” Janzen said. “He’s super friendly and very, very driven.
“I think he’s got a great personality and he’s striving for the best standards for our company. He works really hard and provides a good example for everyone else around him.”
