CIRCLEVILLE — The local business landscape got a healthy dose of “real fruit and veggies” today as Pulp Juice and Smoothie Bar officially opened its doors with a 10:00 a.m. ribbon-cutting ceremony.
The new location marks a significant milestone for both the franchise and its owner, 21-year-old Austin Lemmon. A lifelong entrepreneur who started a lawn care and landscaping business in middle school, Lemmon is no stranger to the grind. Already the owner of a Zanesville Pulp location—where he employs his own mother—Lemmon’s Circleville venture is his second store, with a third potentially on the horizon.
“It’s just a fun environment,” Lemmon said during the opening. “The people are great, corporate is great, and it’s just fun to build them out from start to finish.”
A “Natural” Growth Story
Pulp was founded in Kent, Ohio, in 2005 by Thom Knepp. After traveling the country in search of the perfect smoothie, Knepp realized he had to build the concept himself to ensure a focus on real ingredients and a “fun vibe.” Today, the brand has grown to over 70 locations, with the Circleville site being one of only three new Ohio openings scheduled for 2026.
Unlike many competitors that rely on flavored syrups, Pulp distinguishes itself through:
- Real Ingredients: Over 30 smoothies made with actual fruit and vegetables and no added sugars in their core blends.
- Fresh-Squeezed Bases: Many “Citrus Smoothies” use orange juice squeezed on-site.
- Free Enhancers: Every smoothie comes with one free “enhancer,” such as protein, energy, or immunity boosters.
- Healthy Fuel: A full menu of wraps, blended bowls, wheatgrass shots, and fresh ginger shots.
Investing in Circleville
Beyond the menu, Lemmon is focused on weaving the business into the local fabric. While the Pulp brand has high-profile sponsorships with teams like the Cleveland Cavaliers, Lemmon emphasized that local outreach is his personal priority.
“Anything local is up to me,” Lemmon explained. “We’ve already done mailers to local households, and we plan to sponsor locally and give back to the community whenever the opportunity arises.”
What to Expect
Located in the heart of Circleville (1533 S. Court St.), the new bar aims to be a “community hub” for everyone from gym-goers to busy professionals looking for a quick, healthy lunch. Fan favorites like the Orange Chill and Kale Ka-Pow are already proving popular with early customers.
Whether you are looking for a post-workout recovery drink or a meal on the go that actually tastes like real fruit, Lemmon and his team are ready to serve. As for what’s next for the young mogul?
“Third one [store] maybe? We’re going to soon, so we’ll see,” Lemmon teased.
