WHEN it comes to an appetite for juices and smoothies, the UK lags far behind other countries like America and Australia where it is a multi-billion dollar industry.

Now a Dorset couple hope to change all that with the launch of their Blue Orange Juice Bar in Ashley Cross in Poole.

The concept was conceived in Bondi Beach, Sydney, where co-founder Jacqui Greenhaf lived for 13 years until she returned to the UK.

“My husband and I both felt that there was a gap in the healthy eating market in Dorset, " she explains.

"We were forever looking for somewhere to buy a tasty, healthy smoothie, juice, yoghurt pot or wrap, but there was nowhere nearby—so we decided to do it ourselves."

Whether you’re looking for a place to pick up a fresh smoothie or you want to experience the detoxing benefits of a five-day juice cleanse, Jacqui says they can help.

She adds: “We want people to come to us after their run or gym class, to help replenish their body with pure goodness.

“We want to give people the option of a yummy juice or smoothie if they’re feeling the pain after a big night out, rather than reaching for the fizzy drink and greasy spoon!

"We can also help the mum and dad that want to give their kid some goodness without them knowing!

"Whether you’re dashing in for a quick fix or have a little more time to spare, you’ll be greeted with a smile and, if you’d like it, some friendly, non-preachy juicing advice.

"Blue Orange wants juicing to be a fun part of your day."

And if you do fancy a little treat, there's a range tasty chocolatey bites too, many of which are vegan and gluten free.

“We have a big vegan community visiting us—almost everything we serve is suitable for vegans. Lots of families with their children come and grab their smoothies at the weekend, or on the way home from the school run," says Jacqui.

Blue Orange is already hoping to open a second shop in another location later this year.

A taste of what's on offer:

One of the featured smoothies is called The Green Giant. We whizz together fresh apple juice, banana, chia seeds, kale, spinach, pineapple, spirulina. This is definitely one of our most popular smoothies and is delicious, plus it is a great antioxidant and protein booster, whilst being a great source of energy, helps to improve digestion and reduce inflammation.