WARREN—With the deepest part of winter upon us and a heightened societal need to stay healthy during a pandemic, a new energy drink bar is set to open in Warren.

Elev8 Energy and Nutrition, owned and operated by Hunter Grindle with assistance from his operations manager, Richard Eaton, plans on opening the first week of February.

Grindle, who also owns Hybrid Fitness, a fitness center in the same building, came up with the idea of a new energy drink bar, after brainstorming with Eaton, one of his fitness clients, about providing people with a protein shake after a workout. With 25 years in the hospitality industry, Eaton suggested they expand the concept to be a full-fledged side business, open to the public as well.

“That’s how the idea originally started and we spent many late nights expanding the concept,” said Eaton, who researched numerous companies who could provide the nutritional component to their energy teas, smoothies, shakes, and coffee.

They settled on Lotus Energy Drinks as the main component, which is made from all-natural plant-based energy from the Lotus flower.

“Lotus Energy Drinks is the same company Disneyland uses,” said Eaton. “The owner of Lotus Energy Drinks has been working with us on a number of flavor ideas.”

The ingredients of each drink contain natural caffeine, antioxidants, and “adaptogens,” which increase energy and resistance to stress. It also stimulates the immune system. With one ounce of these ingredients as the core, Grindle and Eaton build the drink–whether it’s a protein smoothie (with Legion whey protein), a shake, a sparkling drink, or a tea with the option of 35 different Torani flavors.

For their high-protein, low-calorie coffee shakes, they use coffee from Maine Roast. They also make regular coffee with Rock City Coffee, as well as Elev8’s own brands. To round out the drinks, they offer healthy snacks from companies such as Epic Meats and Rx.

Hybrid Fitness has been in the building since October, 2020, but the company has been in business since 2015, formerly situated in Thomaston. The new smoothie and juice bar is located right next to the fitness center, with a lounge area to relax in.

“For our members, we want this to be a place where they can get their post-workout protein shake,” said Grindle. “But, we’re open to the rest of the community too, so even if you’re not working out with us, and nutrition is still a big piece of your own goals, we’re an alternative to fast food energy drinks, and coffees.”

Elev8 is located in a giant brown building of Midcoast Athletic Center at 1767 Atlantic Highway. Keep on top of their grand opening by liking their Facebook page.

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com