Spotlight: 16 Handles Modernizes the Traditional Frozen Yogurt Business Model

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16 Handles is revolutionizing the frozen dessert market with its innovative offerings. The frozen yogurt shop brings a new twist to the traditional self-serve model, offering a wide range of soft-serve products, including vegan, nonfat, and no sugar added options, as well as rich and creamy ice cream. With over 50 toppings and fresh fruit to choose from, customers can create their own unique treats. In addition to frozen yogurt, 16 Handles also offers fruit smoothies, milkshakes, acai bowls, and cookie dough. The brand operates multiple stores across New York City and has franchisees stretching from Boston to Florida and Texas.

Bringing a Premium Experience

16 Handles sets itself apart by offering a premium experience to its customers. The brand’s lineup of frozen yogurt, sorbet, and vegan soft serve flavors are artisan and proprietary, made with better ingredients and addictive flavors. The stores are designed to create a modern and comfortable setting, appealing to the millennial generation and young families. This combination of quality products and a stylish atmosphere has led to higher revenue per location compared to competitors. 16 Handles also maintains consistent sales growth and positive organic reviews through effective marketing and loyalty programs. The brand’s tech stack is considered to be lightyears ahead of other frozen dessert businesses.

Fresh Approach to NYC’s Frozen Dessert Scene

16 Handles was founded in New York City as the first self-serve soft serve frozen yogurt shop. The goal was to offer more flavor and topping options than the existing frozen yogurt concepts in Manhattan. The brand has since expanded its product lineup and geographical reach but remains focused on providing customers with a healthier alternative to traditional ice cream. Owner and CEO Neil Hershman, who became a loyal customer of 16 Handles before taking over as CEO, saw the opportunity to lead the brand into a new phase of growth. With over a decade of real-world experience and data, Hershman aims to scale the brand nationally and continue selling “spoonfuls of happiness.”

Opening New Stores and Creating a Winning Marketing Strategy

One of the most rewarding moments for 16 Handles is the grand opening of a new location. Seeing months of hard work come together and witnessing the excitement of the local community is a highlight for the brand. As the franchisor, 16 Handles considers each franchisee as family and provides support during development and training. The brand’s biggest lesson learned is the importance of a winning marketing strategy. While agencies offer a larger knowledge base and powerful software, building an in-house marketing team allows for a deeper understanding of the brand. 16 Handles has taken a hybrid approach but plans to focus more on in-house marketing as they expand into new territories.

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Improving the Franchise Experience and Launching New Flavors

16 Handles aims to find the right franchise partners in key markets across the country and help them open profitable stores. The brand reinvests all profits into enhancing the franchise operation, implementing new technologies, and providing better training and oversight. Staying relevant and consistent are the keys to increasing same-store revenue. One of the perks of the job is the opportunity to test new flavors every month. 16 Handles launches a new flavor on the 16th of each month, combining market research and creative experimentation to craft unique and delicious artisan flavors.

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Images: 16 Handles, Neil Hershman