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This is Chris Redgrave for Zions Bank Speaking on Business.
In the business world you have companies that are true innovators like Blendtec, and others who want to copy. But, who doesn't want the original?
Blendtec has created a patented blender with computerized programs so all you have to do is push a button, and it will use the exact program to create your product, from smoothies to heated soups and homemade ice cream. It's so popular you can now find Blendtec in over 90 countries worldwide. It's no wonder this Orem company has been named Utah's Exporter of the Year.
Ten years ago Blendtec pioneered the idea of plungerless blending, where the jar is shorter with larger blades. They were also the first company to have a sound enclosure to put around the blender, which you can now find in 60 countries around the world through partnerships with companies like Jamba Juice, Starbucks or Baskin Robbins. Their blenders run from a line of around six products for the home all the way to a $14,000 self-serve smoothie machine, which puts out your smoothie with the desired flavorings in about 32 seconds.
The genius behind this company is founder Tom Dickson who has been inventing and innovating for over 30 years. He holds two patents on the Blendtec jar alone. He's also known for his role in the company's "Will it Blend?" videos on YouTube, which have a worldwide following.
Blendtec also has a strong presence in the social media realm with over 100,000 fans on Facebook and around 500 million views on YouTube.
Blendtec has grown to a staff of 300 employees in their Orem warehouse. They take pride in their comprehensive automation process and in having their manufacturing based here. Their blenders are over 90 percent made in the U.S.A. Taking care of employees is also an important focus, and they have a doctor right on site at Blendtec. There's also a fitness center, personal trainer and two massage therapists, so employees have a balanced and healthy life. Now that's a strong employee culture.
For Zions Bank, I'm Chris Redgrave, speaking on business.
Blendtec 1206 S. 1600 West Orem, UT 84058 801-222-0888 www.blendtec.com
