Cole Shawd opened his first restaurant, Mixed, in 2010.
University of Sioux Falls 2006 alumnus Cole Shawd, a business administration major, is the founder of Mixed, a fast, casual, green restaurant that specializes in made-to-order salads, wraps and paninis. Mixed opened June 15, 2010, in Sioux Falls, and a franchise location opened March 13, 2013, in Omaha, Nebraska.
"The original concept for Mixed came from a discussion that my dad and I had on a trip in 2008," Cole says. "We both thought it would be great to have a restaurant that specialized in salads and healthy foods. Over the next 18 months, I put pen to paper and created the entire framework for Mixed."
Deliciously Unique
According to Cole, the Mixed concept and experience is 100 percent unique. From the great-tasting healthy menu to the colors and atmosphere in the restaurant, Mixed offers a fresh approach to dining.
"Our concept caters well to people who are on the go and looking for an affordable breakfast, dinner or lunch that is better for you and includes a fun, eco-friendly atmosphere," Cole says.
The eco-operation at Mixed is one of the many reasons why it has become so popular. Cole created his own 10-point green standard by which the restaurant operates. The sustainable efforts include compostable cups, lids, straws and utensils; 100-percent-recycled paper towels and napkins; reusable bowls; recycled flooring and Energy Star-rated light bulbs.
"Taking care of our customers and the world our customers live in is a top priority," Cole says. "That is why every day we stay true to these words and follow strict practices that keep our operation as green as can be."
Leading the Way for Healthy Lifestyles
The success of Cole's unique concept and the growing popularity of healthier lifestyles has allowed others to join the team on a franchise level. Cole plans to open another franchise location in Rapid City, South Dakota, in November 2013, and one in Des Moines, Iowa at the beginning of 2014.
"Our other areas of focus for expansion are Brookings, South Dakota; Fargo, North Dakota; Minneapolis, Mankato and Rochester, Minnesota; Sioux City, Iowa and Lincoln, Nebraska." Cole says. "We hope to open five to seven more stores next year."
If you would like to learn more about Mixed, click here to visit their website.
Support Our Students
If you'd like to support University of Sioux Falls students in pursuing their own dreams of becoming entrepreneurs, chefs or business people, we'd love to help. Please contact Bruce L. Blumer at 605-331-6813 or [email protected] to learn how your gift can make a difference in the lives of our students.
