Top 10 Common Traits from Successful Frozen Yogurt Shops

When starting your frozen yogurt shop it’s important to look into what does and doesn’t work in some already successful frozen yogurt operations. Here are some similar trends in the industry;

1. Business Plan: Don’t fix what isn’t broken but do be creative:

• The self-serve frozen yogurt process is simple but effective. Customer’s grab a cup, pick their favorite flavors and toppings and create their own dessert concoction. They then, walk up to the froyo point of sale, put the cup on the scale and swipe their credit card. This is interactive for the customer and cost efficient for you as you won’t have to worry about labor.
• Because frozen yogurt is a booming industry there is competition. Set yourself apart with creativity. You can do this with your; frozen yogurt marketing campaign, point of sale loyalty program, or developing an interesting way to engage with customers such as events, promos, or games.

Choosing the right Location

You know the saying. Now there is enough data online to help you choose the proper location.

• Use Mapping like Google, Census Data, Demographics - the online tools will help make sure you don't second guess yourself.
• Don't go for the easy ideas. Find locations that are easy to drive to, if there is no walking space
• Look for neighbors gentrifying - Save in leasing long term.
• Easily accessible, visible, comfortable and space for parking should be at the top of your list when location shopping
• Foot traffic, nearby eateries and outdoor seating are also important factors to take into account.
• Malls might seem like ideal locations but be aware of opening and closing hours. Peak yogurt hours are in the evening and if the mall is closed during these hours you could miss out on dome potential revenue.

Design: Create a home away from home

• Stay contemporary and fresh to be in keeping with the health angle that has revitalized the frozen yogurt industry.
• Clean lines with a bold bright accent for counters and furniture
• Make it a family friendly hangout: Couches, music, plasma T.V’s, and an outdoor patio area invites people in.
• Modern technology appeals to the younger generation: Cafe Cartel offers an integrated loyalty program with sleek tablets for your customers to interact with.

Product and Equipment: The tools for success

• Everyone loves choices: On average successful frozen yogurt shops have around 8 to 16 flavors of low-fat, non-fat, and tart flavors.
• Include berries and tropical fresh cut fruits to go alongside your cookie and candy toppings.
• Make sure your fruit looks as fresh as it is. Mushy fruit in sitting pans is a visual turn-off for customers.
• Proper ventilation ensures that your machines last as long as they’re supposed to.
• Bigger isn’t always better: Buying the biggest and most expensive machinery can just be a drain on your wallet in the form of utility bills.
• Keep track of your inventory with Cafe Cartel’s Point of Sale System. Cafe Cartel has experience and knowledge of the frozen yogurt industry which means that your point of sale software will be tailored to you needs as a frozen yogurt shop owner.