16 Handles

Protein-packed frozen yogurt with premium toppings is driving a trend where customers pay up to $20 for desserts at shops like Birdie's in New York City and Culture Club in Nashville. Greek frozen yogurt, known for higher protein content, is particularly popular, with brands emphasizing health benefits and unique ingredients like pistachio sauce and olive oil.

Frozen yogurt sales are rebounding after years of decline, driven by health-conscious Gen Z consumers seeking premium ingredients and unique toppings. The number of servings sold increased 26% in the year leading to March 2024, with New York City emerging as a hub for high-end frozen yogurt shops like Mimi’s and Myka Greek Frozen Yogurt.

Gen Z and millennial entrepreneurs are increasingly choosing restaurant franchising for its stability and support over independent startups. Franchises like Bang Cookies, Chicken Salad Chick, and Gong Cha report growing interest from younger buyers who value corporate guidance while gaining business ownership experience.

Neil Hershman, a young entrepreneur, turned a humble dessert shop into a rapidly expanding empire by acquiring and growing the 16 Handles frozen yogurt brand. He now oversees around 40 franchised locations and six of his own stores. The global frozen yogurt market is projected to grow to $2.65 billion by 2034.