Frozen yogurt and ice cream franchise 16 Handles is on a sweet growth spurt. Having already established a strong presence in the Northeastern USA, the New York City-based franchise debuted a number of shops in new markets across America this year, in addition to signing more than a dozen new franchisees to further expand in multiple cities.
In Arizona the brand inked a multi-unit agreement with Phoenix-based franchisees, who aim to open multiple stores in the state capital and surrounding suburbs over the next two years.
Construction is under way at multiple locations throughout South Carolina to debut 16 Handles, including stores in Charleston and Columbia, which are slated to open in early 2025.
Following on the success of the brand’s launch in Houston last month, elsewhere in Texas 16 Handles outlets are under construction in Richmond and Missouri City, both opening this winter. Additional units will be announced soon within the Houston market. The brand will also make its debut in Austin with a location just secured to open early next year.
In Florida16 Handles is rapidly expanding on both coasts. A Jupiter store opened late this year and one in West Palm Beach will debut in January. Additional shops are being planned for the Miami Beach and Bonita Springs markets, as well as the brand’s celebrity minority owner Danny Duncan’s hometown store in Englewood.
Operations in New York will be increased with the debut of 16 Handles in Brooklyn’s Cobble Hill neighborhood. An additional unit is also under development in Westchester County.
“The last two years have been huge for 16 Handles. We continue to improve our system and create a new level of demand that is positively impacting new and old stores alike,” said CEO Neil Hershman. “Our willingness to take risks – like recent viral flavor launches including French Fry frozen yogurt and Squid Games-inspired Squid Ink Black Matcha, or design a customer lounge-style seating area – have shown us a clear path forward. We are confident that combined with the right franchise partners and great locations, we can take over the frozen yogurt and dessert industry, especially at this critical junction where consumers want healthier options, and operators with low labor business models.”
The 16 Handles menu features 16 different soft serve flavors, over 50 toppings and sauces, as well as a variety of frozen novelties such as cakes, cookie dough and take-home pints. Limited edition monthly launches have included flavors like Butter Beer, Dune Spice and Keto Chocolate Brownie, alongside staples such as Classic Vanilla, Original Tart, and Made with Nutella.
