New York City — National frozen dessert brand 16 Handles has named Fred Frey, an accomplished restaurant franchise development leader with an extensive background in finance and business growth, as its new vice president of franchise development. He joins the company from Shipley Do-Nuts.
Most recently, Frey served as director of franchise development at Shipley Do-Nuts, where he played a key role in the company’s largest expansion to date, securing 117 franchise agreements in 2024 alone. Prior to that, he was franchise development manager for iced tea brand HTeaO, leading its expansion into 12 states and adding more than 300 franchise agreements to its pipeline in just over 2 years. Frey’s expertise in franchise growth is complemented by a decade-long career in banking and finance with Wells Fargo and Merrill Lynch.
“I’m thrilled to be joining 16 Handles at such a pivotal time in its expansion,” says Frey. “The brand’s modern store design, high-quality product lineup and strong franchisee support system create an incredible opportunity for growth, and I look forward to working with the team to bring 16 Handles to new communities nationwide.”
Frey’s hire follows a year of significant growth for the New York-based brand. 16 Handles has recently expanded into new markets in Arizona, South Carolina, Texas, Florida and New York with new franchisees. The brand also refined its store design, reducing buildout costs by nearly $30,000, and now manufactures all key elements in the U.S.
“Fred’s track record in franchise development and finance makes him the perfect fit to lead 16 Handles into its next phase of growth,” says Neil Hershman, CEO of 16 Handles. “His experience in driving expansion and supporting franchisees aligns with our mission.”
16 Handles opened its first store in Manhattan’s East Village in 2008, becoming the first self-serve frozen yogurt shop in New York City. Since then, the brand has expanded to over 35 locations through franchising with a menu that includes frozen yogurt, ice cream, vegan soft serve, endless toppings, drinks and other treats and snacks. For more information, visit https://16handles.com/.
SOURCE: 16 Handles