2002
70
$350,000
$35,000
$600,000
No
6 Handles offers a revolutionary self-serve frozen yogurt experience that combines fun, customization, and health-conscious indulgence. Unlike traditional frozen yogurt shops, 16 Handles provides 16 rotating flavors daily, ranging from classic favorites to innovative seasonal blends. Customers are empowered to mix and match flavors and choose from an extensive selection of fresh fruit, candies, nuts, and sauces to create personalized treats.
The brand’s modern, vibrant stores provide a welcoming environment ideal for families, millennials, and health-focused consumers. 16 Handles is recognized not only for its quality product but also for its commitment to customer experience and innovation. With the frozen yogurt market expected to grow in the USA, 16 Handles is perfectly positioned to capture the attention of dessert lovers seeking variety, fun, and healthier dessert options.
Unique Selling Points (USPs):
Self-serve model with 16 rotating flavors daily, offering unparalleled customization.
Strong brand recognition in key urban markets.
Focus on health-conscious consumers with low-fat, probiotic-rich products.
Flexible store formats adaptable to malls, shopping centers, and standalone locations.
USA Market Demand:
The frozen yogurt industry in the USA has witnessed steady growth, driven by consumer preference for healthier dessert alternatives and experiential food concepts. 16 Handles taps into these trends with a strong, proven concept.
Consumer Trends:
Increasing demand for customizable, interactive food experiences and health-oriented products makes 16 Handles a relevant and attractive choice.
Growth Potential:
With over 70 units and many untapped markets, there is significant potential for new franchisees to grow with a brand poised for nationwide expansion.
Brand Popularity and Profitability:
The brand’s established reputation and loyal customer base translate into consistent revenue streams. Profit margins benefit from the self-serve format, reducing labor costs.
16 Handles is a leading self-serve frozen yogurt franchise that was founded in 2002 in New York City. The brand was started by a group of entrepreneurs passionate about providing high-quality, customizable frozen yogurt in a fun, engaging environment. Over the years, 16 Handles has expanded its footprint steadily across the USA, establishing itself as a premier destination for healthy dessert lovers.
The franchise concept revolves around offering 16 rotating flavors of frozen yogurt combined with a vast array of fresh toppings, enabling customers to create their own unique dessert experience. The brand has earned its reputation through innovation, quality, and a customer-first approach. Ownership remains with the founding partners and select private equity investors, focusing on steady expansion and maintaining brand integrity.
Currently, 16 Handles operates over 70 franchise units across major metropolitan areas in the United States, including New York, California, Texas, and Florida. The franchise belongs to the quick-service restaurant (QSR) and dessert category, a booming sector fueled by health-conscious consumer trends and the growing demand for customizable food experiences.
16 Handles offers a comprehensive support system to franchisees, ensuring a smooth path from launch to ongoing operations:
Pre-launch Support:
Assistance with site selection, lease negotiation, store design, and construction oversight to ensure brand standards are met.
Operational Training:
Intensive training programs covering store management, food safety, customer service, inventory control, and quality assurance.
Marketing Support:
National and regional marketing campaigns, social media strategies, and local store marketing toolkits to drive customer traffic.
Academic Resources:
Access to online training modules, webinars, and updated best practices to keep franchisees and staff knowledgeable.
Ongoing Support:
Regular field visits, business performance reviews, refresher training, and access to a dedicated franchise support team.
The ideal 16 Handles franchisee is an entrepreneur or investor passionate about the food service industry and customer experience. Candidates with prior retail or QSR management experience will find a natural fit, but the franchise is also open to motivated newcomers willing to learn and grow.
Key attributes include:
Strong business acumen and willingness to follow a proven system.
Financial capability to invest in and sustain initial store development and operations.
Commitment to upholding brand standards and delivering excellent customer service.
Preference for high-traffic urban or suburban locations with demographic fit for frozen yogurt demand.
Enthusiasm for community engagement and local marketing efforts.
Starting a 16 Handles franchise requires an estimated total investment ranging from $350,000 to $600,000, depending on location and store size.
Minimum Investment: Approximately $350,000
Franchise Fee: $35,000
Infrastructure & Build-out Costs: $250,000 - $400,000 (includes equipment, store design, and construction)
Marketing Budget: Franchisees are expected to allocate around 2-4% of gross sales for local marketing, while the corporate level manages national campaigns.
Working Capital: Approximately $50,000 recommended to cover initial operating expenses.
Royalty Fees: 6% of gross sales
Expected ROI: Franchisees can expect to reach break-even within 12-18 months, with potential annual revenue per unit ranging from $500,000 to $750,000, depending on market conditions.
Potential Revenue Streams: In-store sales of frozen yogurt and toppings, catering services, seasonal promotions, and merchandise sales.