IRVINE, Calif., March 22, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Yogurtland, the leading self-serve frozen yogurt brand, today announces the signing of a five-store agreement for new locations in the Houston market. This deal signifies strong momentum as the brand seeks significant expansion throughout key regions in the U.S., with more than 220 stores currently open across the country and internationally. These Houston locations will also debut a new Yogurtland store design, indicating the brand’s ongoing drive to excite today’s customer.
New franchisees and Sugarland residents Yasir Akhtar and Sameera Rauf seized on the opportunity to bring this well-established brand to a new community. As owners of an independent insurance company and parents to three children, the couple was exploring different options to expand their business portfolio with a strong revenue engine and limited operational stress.
“We were particularly drawn to the frozen yogurt industry, consistently popular as a fun, healthier, and customizable dessert experience, and ultimately to the Yogurtland brand, given its strong brand recognition,” said Akhtar. “We look forward to introducing more of the greater Houston community to their new favorite treat!”
Akhtar and Rauf are currently pursuing specific locations for the first of their shops, slated to open in late summer or early fall. They look forward to introducing the new Yogurtland store design, which will bring a refreshed look that highlights the brand’s quality ingredients and local dairy, as well as its core values and philanthropic endeavors (see renderings here). Yogurtland stores are typically 1,400-1,500 square feet and employ approximately 10-12 workers per location.
Yogurtland founder and CEO Phillip Chang, who moved to California from Korea when he was 21, revolutionized the industry by removing the barrier of the counter from his frozen yogurt shops. With this innovation, Yogurtland invited customers to build their own frozen yogurt desserts and create a memorable experience beyond what’s in the cup.
“Yasir and Sameera are ideal franchisees, with their business ownership experience and connection to the fun, family atmosphere found in each of our stores,” said Yogurtland President Sam Yoon. “With Fortune Business Insights predicting the frozen yogurt market to grow from close to $1.7 billion in 2021 to $2.14 billion in 2028, Yogurtland provides the support and proven business model to help franchisees like Yasir and Sameera succeed.”
About Yogurtland
Since 2006, Yogurtland has been leading the frozen yogurt chain delivering over 200 handcrafted flavors and providing fans an anytime treat for the whole family. In 2022, Yogurtland is continuing to bring fans more froyo moments with new fan-favorite creations, expansion of menu items including plant-based options, at-home experiences, and innovations throughout the brand. Yogurtland has a team of flavorologists that exclusively use real ingredients and scratch-made, handcrafted flavors from across the globe for fans to enjoy a truly customized frozen dessert. The company's premium frozen yogurt and delicious toppings are available through delivery, pickup, or catering, giving customers more flexibility to enjoy dessert for any occasion wherever they are. Presently, Yogurtland has more than 220 locations across the U.S. and internationally. For more information, visit www.yogurt-land.com.
Contact: Karen Murray
T: 215-850-4645
Email: kmurray@powersbc.com
