16 Handles planning East Coast expansion with new shop in Jersey City 

New York City-based 16 Handles on Wednesday said it will open new locations across the East Coast, including one in Jersey City, this spring as part of four recently signed franchise agreements.

One recently signed agreement is for the expansion in Jersey City. The new franchise partner, Tamara Hamilton, has lived in New York City for 12 years, where she said she became an avid 16 Handles customer.

“Previously working in the finance and construction industry, the pandemic made me realize I wanted to start a new career, be my own boss and open a business in Jersey City,” Hamilton said in a news release. “I wanted to open a place that people can come in to feel good and leave happy. There are so many local families here, and 16 Handles has the most welcoming atmosphere to stay and make memories while having a delicious treat.”

Other franchise locations include Boston, and two in Florida (Englewood and Naples).

These franchise deals mark a significant step forward for the brand outside of New York and part of the latest growth strategy under CEO Neil Hershman, 16 Handles’ largest franchisee, who recently acquired the brand in August of last year.

16 Handles says it sets itself apart with “a modern store design, an exclusive and addictive product lineup, and an unparalleled customer experience.” The menu features 16 different soft serve flavors, 50-plus toppings and sauces, as well as a variety of frozen novelties such as cakes, take-home pints and Dō gourmet edible cookie dough. The brand is also expected to announce further multiunit expansion across the East Coast and Texas in the coming months.

“16 Handles offers something for everyone, and our new operator-first approach to franchising and turn-key modular store design is proving to be successful,” Hershman said. “We are excited to expand across the East Coast, and our corporate team is already hard at work helping to plan stores and train new franchise partners.”