National smoothie chain to open 9th CT location

National smoothie chain Robeks plans to open a new location in Avon in early January, the company announced. The store, at 186 West Main St., will be part of a new Route 44 development that includes Jersey Mike’s, Teriyaki Madness and PeoplesBank. It will be operated by the Saffron Group, which owns franchises across several business sectors. The Avon opening will bring Robeks’ Connecticut footprint to nine locations. The menu will feature the company’s signature smoothies, juices, açai bowls, artisan toasts and its new handheld “Harmonious Bites” items. Robeks executives said the Avon site’s visibility and mix of nearby retailers make it a strong location for expansion.