Newtown Business Spotlight: Juice Plus

Every local business has a story worth sharing with the community. And that’s the belief behind this exciting series we’ve kicked off at Patch — to shine the spotlight on all our favorite local businesses, and to learn a little about the ones we may not know that well.

Business: Juice Plus+
Owner: Doris Hanley
Website: dhanley.juiceplus.com
Address: Fox Run Lane South, Newtown, CT

How did you come up with the name?

I didn’t. Dr. Santillo came up with the name about 25 yrs. ago---because he found Juicing to be difficult, and this was an easier solution.

Why choose that location? Why start a business in this town?

My business is home-based, but can grow any place at any time. This town is filled with families...families that care about their health. JP+ is whole food nutrition from 25 fruits, veggies, grapes and berries so many families from Newtown embrace this simple concept to help bridge the gap in their diet.

Briefly, what business are you in?

Nutrition, health, wellness and PREVENTION.

What’s the most difficult moment or challenge you’ve faced as a business owner?

Helping other people understand that owning a franchise will create a secondary income stream that doesn’t necessarily mean logging in more hours “working”. This business model is truly representative of how many businesses will operate in the future- because people like being their own boss. I offer people a way “out of the rat race”, or the corporate ladder----but this can take some explaining! So, I just keep on explaining, and leading by example. My business has doubled in size since last year---so I get very excited to share this concept with others!

Were there any challenges that made you second guess your decision to be an entrepreneur?

Never! I saw many moms/friends scramble when the recession hit in 2008....their lives were turned upside down as husbands got laid off, businesses took a nose-dive, etc. They had to take on jobs---while trying to care for their family. I saw the stress this created...and the tension. I saw a Juice Plus+ Franchise as a recession-proof business model....something anyone could be good at....so I took a shot at it. Guess what? I was and am able to grow a business alongside my 3 boys----not competing with them. Laundry gets done, dinner is served and the house is clean---all while building a business that can be international in scope! It fascinates me, excites me---I can’t tell you how much I enjoy jumping out of bed each morning! This business model embraces the idea that life is a journey, the world is your oyster----it’s still like the wild west out there for me because of it! Isn’t that what true happiness is all about? About waking up excited and engaged? I love what I do and what I have to offer.

What’s been your favorite moment or proudest achievement since opening?

Helping moms bring in extra income---helping them to create a secondary income stream is so rewarding!

What’s the most innovative idea your employees or customers have had that you put into practice?

The whole concept is innovative actually. Vine ripened produce, which is pulverized into juice powders, in a capsule or chewy. Wow- what a concept! Nutrient dense food that you can take with you wherever life takes you!

How do you deal with difficult customers?

I have lots of conversations---and try to educate and empower my customers. Ultimately what they choose to do is up to them. I’m fine with all of their decisions.

How does your business give back or get involved in the community?

Every month, a portion of my sales goes to St. Judes in Memphis, the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, Volunteers of America, and Unicef. We take giving very seriously!

Would you like to see your small business showcased in this series? Email wendy.mitchell@ patch.com.

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