Key Takeaways
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Market Opportunity: Ken and Sarah Barlow identified a gap in their South Carolina city for a self-service frozen yogurt business.
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Franchise Partnership: They collaborated with 16 Handles in early 2024 and launched their franchise in June 2025.
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Financial Success: In just six months, they achieved $1 million in sales.
For Ken and Sarah Barlow, the inspiration to open a frozen yogurt franchise stemmed from a simple family moment when their daughter expressed a desire to “make her own ice cream.” They realized their hometown of Forest Acres, South Carolina, lacked a self-service frozen yogurt option, which spurred them to fulfill this community need.
The Decision to Franchise
What led to the franchise decision?
Sarah described it as a gradual realization rather than a single moment. The more they researched 16 Handles and connected with the franchise team, the more confident they became that it was the right fit for their market.
Assumptions about franchising:
Ken initially thought the corporate structure would ensure smooth operations. They soon learned that running a franchise still requires flexibility and proactive problem-solving.
Strategies for Growth
Keys to their $1 million success:
Sarah emphasized the importance of location and active community engagement. By securing a prime location and fostering local relationships through fundraising and support events, they created substantial foot traffic and loyal customers.
Community Engagement:
They’ve hosted over 70 fundraising events and supported local organizations, which helped to integrate their business into the community and enhance customer retention.
Advice for Future Franchisees
Steps to Explore Franchising:
Ken advised potential franchisees to assess their financial readiness, research different brands, and understand the comprehensive costs involved. Patience and careful planning are essential.
Pre-signing Reflection:
If they could speak to themselves prior to signing, they would encourage trust in their instincts and emphasize the need for patience. They recognized that building a business takes longer than anticipated, but the journey is rewarding as the store becomes a community staple.
Through their experiences, the Barlows have shown that perseverance, community connection, and thorough research are vital for successfully navigating the franchising landscape.
