The 16 Handles Franchisee will Support Franchise Owners with Training and Management Resources
The popular New York City-based self-serve frozen yogurt franchise, 16 Handles, appointed Lisa Mallon to vice president of franchise relations and business development. She is responsible for supporting the frozen yogurt franchise’s new and existing franchise owners with management and training resources. Following YouTuber Danny Duncan and CEO Neil Hershman’s acquisition of the frozen yogurt brand, Mallon joins the leadership team with her husband, Erik, the new vice president of franchise development. She brings more than 20 years’ experience in guest engagement, operations, and training to the role.
“I am most excited about working more closely with our existing operators and helping the brand expand nationwide. I know we have an incredible opportunity to introduce 16 Handles to many new markets, and I can’t wait to see our presence in so many new communities,” she said.
After discovering the 16 Handles concept, Mallon “fell in love with the New York City vibe, the upbeat atmosphere, and the sense of community.” She also wanted to work with a business that was fun and full of energy.
With the new additions to the leadership team, Mallon believes that 16 Handles has “a renewed passion and vision to expand nationwide. Since we are operators ourselves, I think we’ll be able to really share our experience and hands-on knowledge with new franchisees and have a cohesive brand.” Over the last decade, the Mallons have owned and operated a 16 Handles location in Fairfield, Conn., and had the opportunity to support other franchisees.
“I also had experience with another franchise system doing training and support, so I knew I was in a unique position to help Neil grow the business. I was incredibly excited when he offered me the position to join his team.”
A Franchising Couple
The Mallons got into franchising after discovering My Gym Children’s Fitness Center while their kids were younger. Years later, the Mallons had a positive experience with 16 Handles. “Being part of the franchise system gave me the opportunity and flexibility to run my own business, meet incredible people, and pursue other ventures in and out of work.”
Mallon has benefited from working with her husband. “When you have been together for a long time, there is a synergy that makes working together easier. My advice for other couples would be to use each other’s strengths to your advantage. If you divide and conquer, you will be much more effective. Also, take a step back and try not to bring work home every day. That separation will help create a much healthier work-life balance.”
In Mallon’s view, “the advantage of joining a franchise system is that much of the work is already done, so you need to trust in the people, the process, and the business model.” She advises franchise seekers do their due diligence and find a business that they believe in.