Latest news with #frozenyogurt
Entrepreneur
09-07-2025
- Business
- Entrepreneur
He Went From Customer to CEO of 16 Handles
Neil Hershman built his expansion playbook by perfecting a single store, then replicating what worked across the franchise system without sacrificing customer experience. Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own. Fresh out of an unfulfilling finance career, Neil Hershman was looking for something different — something he could build with his own hands. That search led him to 16 Handles, a New York-based froyo brand he frequented as a customer. Astrophysics degree in one hand, finance resume in the other, Hershman found himself behind the counter of his first 16 Handles franchise, sleeves rolled up and running the store from open to close. What started as a side project quickly spiraled into something bigger. "Open and close, every single shift I was working," Hershman says. "I was able to advance the business [and] bring in additional revenue to the point where the profit was so great that I decided to leave all my other projects and just focus on 16 Handles." At a time when other entrepreneurs were retreating, Hershman expanded. He started building new stores across New York City during Covid-19, when retail leases were cheap and competitors were shuttering. "Instead of getting scared, I was the one coming in and building," he says. Related: He Started a Business and Ended Up on the Brink of Bankruptcy. He Fixed His Mistakes – and Now Teaches Entrepreneurs What He Wishes He Knew When Starting Out. Soon, he wasn't just running locations. He was leading the entire company. Since acquiring the brand from founder Solomon Choi in 2022, Hershman has led a nationwide expansion of the froyo chain from 30 to 150-plus locations. His unexpected journey from customer to franchisee to CEO gives him a unique edge in today's crowded dessert market. Hershman is behind some of the brand's wildest flavors, ranging from Harry Potter references to "french fry frozen yogurt" (a play on McDonald's frequently broken ice cream machines). "I am part of the customer base," he says. "My family, my friends, everyone is part of the customer base. So it's just ideas that we have." The results speak for themselves. "Our sales growth has been phenomenal, like when we launched french fry, or the Squid Games-inspired flavor, or the butter beer out of Harry Potter," he says. "Our sales are up like 30-40% the week that we launched compared to prior years. So it really does make a difference." But building a thriving brand takes more than flavor. It takes trust, consistency and loyalty — not just from customers, but from the team. That's why the first person Hershman hired was Lisa Mallon, who co-owned the Fairfield, Connecticut, location with her husband for 13 years. "Who knows the brand better and believes in the brand more than people who have been successful with the brand?" Hershman says. "Somebody who's got 13 years of running a store open to close and knows customer interactions and [what] customers want, how to make the best bang for your buck on this business." Related: Her Show Was Canceled – But the Setback Taught Busy Philipps a Powerful Lesson for Creators and Entrepreneurs This strategy helps the brand stay consistent, which are the callouts Hershman appreciates most in customer reviews. "We used to have one girl who ordered every single day, and it would always come through around the same time, to the point where when you heard the printer printing at that time, we knew it was her order and what to do," he says. One day, she left a five-star review with a picture of her froyo on her coffee table. "Love this place, great chocolate," she wrote. For Hershman, these few words were a source of encouragement. "Even though it feels monotonous that we're packing the same order every single day, there's somebody at the other end who all day is probably looking forward to this moment of opening up this bag," he says. Hershman stressed the importance of paying close attention to reviews, whether positive or critical. "[Loyal customers] know what to look for best," he says. "Those are really important for us as a franchisor to know what's going on with our locations, and for store operators to know what's going on in the customer's mind." Related: This Local Bakery Has Lines Out the Door. Here Are the Secrets to Its Success. Hershman and his team keep a close eye on review platforms like Yelp to help refine operations and build trust while keeping in mind that not every critique is a call to action. For example, one of the challenges Hershman identified is not getting the full picture of a customer's experience based on their review. "You just get the edges, so it makes it a little hard to use those reviews as a long-term decision maker," he says. Nevertheless, critical reviews can provide clarity, and good reviews can build credibility. Both are opportunities to grow as a business. Hershman's story is about seeing potential where others see plateaus and making truly special moments for customers, who will return for the consistent experience again and again. After taking over as CEO and reimagining 16 Handles for a new generation, Hershman's advice to entrepreneurs is simple but powerful: Obsess over the customer experience. From staple products to add-on services, everything can be improved to build trust and cultivate repeat business. From staple products to add-on services, everything can be improved to build trust and cultivate repeat business. Build customer loyalty at every turn. Reading and responding to customer feedback lets customers know their voices are heard. Reading and responding to customer feedback lets customers know their voices are heard. Innovate with purpose. Not every business idea will see the light of day, but focusing on constant improvement will keep your business competitive. Not every business idea will see the light of day, but focusing on constant improvement will keep your business competitive. See your business through the eyes of a customer. Spending time on the front lines can give you a fresh perspective on what's working and what needs to be improved. Listen to the episode to hear directly from Neil Hershman, and subscribe to Behind the Review for more from new business owners and reviewers every Tuesday. Editorial contributions by Jiah Choe and Kristi Lindahl
Yahoo
26-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Yogurtini® Self-Serve Announces Grand Opening of Three Locations in Las Vegas
- Under New Ownership Beloved Self-Serve Frozen Yogurt Brand Kicks Off National Franchise Expansion- CHINO HILLS, Calif., June 26, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Yogurtini®, one of the nation's original self-serve frozen yogurt franchises, is excited to announce the grand opening of three new locations in Las Vegas, NV, marking the brand's debut in the area. Acquired in 2023 by brothers Neal and Nimesh Dahya, Yogurtini (part of the U-Swirl family of brands) is rapidly expanding its presence nationwide, with these new Nevada locations leading its growth strategy. Additional locations in Arizona, Texas, Georgia, and North Carolina are also expected to open in 2025. A leader in the frozen yogurt industry and a beloved favorite for over 15 years, Yogurtini offers 16 non-fat or low-fat frozen yogurt and sorbet flavors, along with a self-serve toppings bar featuring over 80 options. This allows customers to craft their personalized desserts with endless combinations on each visit. "For over nine years I have owned and operated four Yogurtini Self-Serve shops in Phoenix, AZ and three U-Swirl locations in Las Vegas, NV. I am excited about the opportunity to capitalize on the strength of the Yogurtini brand with the rebrand and grand opening of my current U-Swirl locations in the Las Vegas area. With the dedication, significant investment, and proven track record of the Dahyas in building successful franchises, it was an obvious choice to unite my locations under the Yogurtini brand and lean into the superior product, service, and franchise support Yogurtini is known for," said Mike Mackey, Yogurtini Franchise Owner. As part of their growth strategy, the Dahyas have decided to revitalize the Yogurtini brand by leveraging the expertise of the original founding sisters, Chelsey Nelson Seabrook and Natasha Nelson. The duo opened the first Yogurtini shop, the first self-serve concept in Arizona, in 2008, and went on to expand the brand to 30 locations nationwide before it was acquired in 2013 by Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory. "The key to Yogurtini's lasting success has always been the unique, inviting, and upscale atmosphere we created in our stores. As part of our national growth initiative, we're excited to bring the brand back to its roots by tapping into the talents of the original co-founders. Chelsey has been appointed Chief Marketing Officer, and we're also consulting with her sister Natasha's marketing agency, to reinvigorate the brand and restore its original ethos," said Neal Dahya, co-owner of Yogurtini. "When we started Yogurtini over 15 years ago, customers were hooked because of the high-quality frozen yogurt we made, and of course because of the extensive toppings bar that was unlike any other. We also found customers loved spending time in our stores that were welcoming and fun while still offering an elevated experience. I'm excited to bring that premium standard back to our existing and future locations," said Chelsey Nelson Seabrook, CMO of Yogurtini. "We are now in the process of modernizing our store designs, menus, and operational support so that our franchisees can have even greater success." The new Yogurtini stores are now open at 305 N. Nellis Ave., 9795 W. Charleston Blvd., and 6592 N. Decatur Blvd. in Las Vegas, NV. For more information about locations and franchising opportunities, visit About Yogurtini Yogurtini Self-Serve is one of the original self-serve frozen yogurt brands and offers up to 16 rotating healthy and fat-free frozen yogurt flavors and over 80 toppings. Yogurtini only serves real yogurt that contains live and active cultures approved by the National Yogurt Association. The popularity of the Yogurtini brand has been recognized consistently by customers and the national press including The Wall Street Journal, Fox News, Inc. Magazine, CBS News, and Business Week, including many others. Yogurtini boasts having some of the most knowledgeable yogurt and franchise innovators in the industry. Yogurtini's top quality, taste, original flavors, and extensive toppings have been praised by the masses. Created by sisters, Natasha Nelson and Chelsey Nelson Seabrook, Yogurtini is under new ownership by brothers, Neal and Nimesh Dahya, co-founders of Mesh Brands. The Dahyas bring extensive operational expertise as franchisors of Foster's Freeze and GW Gyro & Wings, along with their experience as former franchisees managing over 180 locations including Applebee's, IHOP, Pizza Hut, and Burger King. For more information on Yogurtini visit To learn more about being awarded a Yogurtini franchise visit Yogurtini is now offering frozen yogurt franchise area development agreements nationally. Yogurtini franchises are currently in or under development in Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, Florida, Nebraska, Kansas, Missouri, Georgia, North Carolina, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Minnesota. View source version on Contacts Media Contact: Chelsey Nelson Seabrookchelsey@
Daily Mail
26-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Demi Lovato mocked after sharing basic avocado toast tutorial to promote her first cookbook
Demi Lovato has drawn a mixed reaction from fans after announcing her first cookbook, One Plate At a Time. To promote the book, the pop star, 32, shared a tutorial to Instagram of a simple recipe for making egg and avocado toast. In the demonstration, Lovato called it one of her 'favorite staple recipes' before drenching a piece of bread in oil and throwing it on the frying pan. After struggling to mash an avocado, the Skyscraper singer sprinkled salt on her toast before explaining how to fry an egg. 'It's so easy, even I can do it,' she confessed. 'I'm not a professional yet, but it's all about progress, not perfection,' she insisted. Fans had a strong reaction to the video, with one writing, 'Girlie is making an avocado toast with a fried egg in the announcement video... please, this is giving Brooklyn Beckham cosplaying as a chef for 2 days.' 'She's making avocado toast in the promo vid. Does she think we plebes can't figure out how to put avocado on bread? I'm tired dawg,' wrote another. A third stated, 'She's been cooking for only THREE YEARS and we're supposed to think she wrote her own recipes?' Other naysayers also couldn't help but bring up Lovato's infamous frozen yogurt scandal. In 2021, Lovato publicly attacked a popular frozen yogurt shop for offering 'sugar free cookies and diet foods', because she found it 'triggering' due to her past eating disorder. She later apologized for the comments after fans accused her of targeting a small business. Responding to the news of her cookbook this week, one fan snarkily asked, 'Is there a frozen yogurt recipe?' Announcing One Plate At a Time on Wednesday, Lovato wrote, 'Stepping into the kitchen and learning how to cook has been such an important part of my recovery and healing my relationship with food.' She continued, 'This book is filled with simple, comforting recipes that have allowed me to reconnect with myself and find both freedom and joy in my kitchen – feelings I never thought I could experience. 'It has allowed me to see cooking as an act of love and kindness to myself and those in my life, and I hope this book can bring that same feeling into your home too.' Despite some of the negative feedback, most fans were overjoyed at the prospect of Lovato's cookbook. 'Her having a cookbook is HUGE. forget the album. this is amazing for her eating disorder recovery. so proud of you,' one gushed. 'Seeing you struggling with an eating disorder for years to now having a cookbook makes me so happy,' wrote another. 'I've loved demi since early Disney channel and my heart is SO FULL seeing her making a fing COOKBOOK! I'm so freaking proud of you Demi,' a third exclaimed. One Plate At A Time will be released on March 31, 2026. Late last month in May, Demi and musician Jordan 'Jutes' Lutes tied the knot during a romantic ceremony in Santa Barbara at Bellosguardo Estate. Lovato was a breathtaking bride as she walked down the aisle in a Vivienne Westwood gown - just one day after they both participated in a practice run with the rest of their wedding party. According to Vogue, the lovebirds said 'I do' in the late afternoon around 4pm in front of guests. She wore a dress from Vivienne Westwood for both the main ceremony as well as the lighthearted reception, per photos obtained by the outlet. The gown the beauty wore just moments before saying her vows was made of a fitted corset bodice as well as a silk satin material. A sheer white veil was placed at the back of her head and flowed down into an elegant train behind her. When it came to her wedding gown, the singer gushed to Vogue that she has 'been a fan of Vivienne Westwood's designs for a long time.' The star further expressed, 'When I was thinking about [what dress style I wanted] I often found myself coming back to Vivienne's designs - specifically how the silhouettes really compliment the curves in your body, and her use of corsets.'
Yahoo
07-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
New York City-based frozen yogurt shop opens store in Point Hope community
CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD)—A New York City-based frozen yogurt shop known for its trendy and fun flavors, such as Dubai Chocolate, Black Matcha, and Mango Lassi, has opened in the Point Hope Community. 16-Handles brought its signature swirls to the Lowcountry with an opening celebration on Saturday, May 31, at 654 Hopewell Drive, Suite 105. The storefront is open Sunday through Thursday from 12 to 9 p.m. and Friday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., offering 16 regular soft-serve flavors and rotating limited edition flavors like French Fry. Customers can also choose from vegan, dairy-free, egg-free, nonfat, and no added sugar flavors. 'Charleston is an incredible fit for 16 Handles – the city's vibrant food scene and community spirit align perfectly with what 16 Handles is all about,' said Neil Hershman, Owner and CEO of the NYC-based frozen yogurt brand. 'Our local owners and team members are excited to become the community's destination for dessert and share samples of all of our artisan, better-for-you treats. Life is worth celebrating, and we hope everyone in town will visit the new shop and celebrate everyday moments over a pink or blue cup of happiness,' Hershman added. The fro-yo spot offers a points program where members can earn rewards and exclusive discounts. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
29-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Frozen yogurt stand to debut at the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden this summer
The latest exhibit hitting the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden is organic frozen yogurt. The Walker Art Center is welcoming Fro Yo Soul Sips and Snacks, which will take up residence at the home of Spoonbridge and Cherry daily beginning June 7. The treat purveyor was selected after a request for proposals was issued in 2024 looking for a company to complement the food options already offered at the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden. For more than a decade, the frozen yogurt-slinging shop has been posting up at festivals, food truck events, and art fairs around the Twin Cities. Now, it'll make the Walker its home for the summer, serving frozen yogurt with a variety of toppings, including fruit, granola, candy, and cookies. The Sculpture Garden's menu will also have local craft beer, wine, frozen lemonade, and other non-alcoholic and THC-infused drinks, as well as popcorn and hot dogs, which will be available in vegetarian and gluten-free options. 'We're honored to be part of the Sculpture Garden's legacy,' Fro Yo Soul co-founder Zack Rethlake says. 'We hope to be a spot where people connect over art, nature, and a swirl, snack and sip or two.' Fro Yo Soul will be open in the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, a joint project from the Walker Art Center and Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.
