16 Handles: Innovating the Frozen Dessert Market
When it comes to the frozen dessert market, you may think that there’s nothing new under the sun. However, 16 Handles is proving that there are still innovative offerings to be found in this space. In this week’s Small Business Spotlight, we’ll explore how this frozen yogurt shop is changing things up.
What 16 Handles Offers
16 Handles is bringing a new twist to the traditional frozen yogurt shop. Owner and CEO Neil Hershman explains, “Our soft-serve products range from vegan, nonfat, and no sugar added frozen yogurt to rich and creamy ice cream, with 50+ toppings and fresh fruit to add on top. Our stores also feature fruit smoothies, milkshakes, acai bowls, cookie dough, and more.”
Business Niche
The business offers a premium experience, providing artisan and proprietary frozen yogurt, sorbet, and vegan soft serve flavors with high-quality ingredients.
How It All Began
16 Handles was founded as NYC’s first self-serve soft serve frozen yogurt shop, designed to compete with other frozen yogurt concepts in Manhattan. Neil Hershman became a loyal customer before eventually taking over as CEO.
Biggest Win
Opening new stores brings the business a great deal of satisfaction and success. The brand has seen consistent sales increases and positive organic reviews.
Lesson Learned
One valuable lesson learned by the company is the importance of creating a winning marketing strategy. The business has used a hybrid approach of both in-house marketing and working with agencies, but is now transitioning to expanding its in-house marketing team.
How They’d Spend an Extra $100,000
The business would invest in improving the franchise experience, focusing on finding the right franchise partners in key markets across the country.
Favorite Task
A favorite task of Neil Hershman is launching new flavors. This allows the team to test potential new flavors and get creative with their offerings.
In conclusion, 16 Handles continues to make waves in the frozen dessert market by providing an innovative and premium experience for its customers. With a focus on quality, consistency, and growth, the brand is setting itself apart from the competition.
