• by Teresa Buyikian , Yesterday

Most QSRs prohibit customers from walking up to the drive-thru window, but one smoothie giant is not only encouraging customers to walk through, but to run.

Smoothie King is honoring Global Running Day this June 4 with the launch of its “Run-Thru” test. The brand describes the window as “a limited-time experience that invites runners to jog up and order their post-run smoothie on foot.” The brand is testing the concept on June 4 at its E. Belt Line Rd location in Richardson, Texas.

For customers not near the Texas Run-Thru, the brand is offering its new Watermelon Hydration Smoothie for free at its over 3,000 stores nationwide on June 4 as well.

"Smoothie King is proud to show up for runners in a meaningful and dynamic way this Global Running Day," said Claudia Schaefer, CMO of Smoothie King in the announcement. "From the Run-Thru to the new hydration smoothie and national partnerships, Smoothie King is reaffirming its commitment to helping guests achieve their health and active lifestyle goals."

The brand is doubling down on its commitment to the running community by also becoming the first Official Smoothie of the TSC New York City Marathon. During the 2025 race day on Nov 2, the brand will have an official Smoothie King Cheer Zone near its Brooklyn store complete with activities and giveaways.  

Fitness community app Stava has also teamed up with the brand to launch The Smoothie King Challenge for runners. Available now through June 30, runners can join the challenge on the Strava app or website and get the opportunity to win prizes including free smoothies and one of three limited-entry bibs for the 2025 TCS New York City Marathon.