Former Shipley Do-Nuts and HTeaO Executive Joins New York-Based Dessert Franchise Amid Nationwide Expansion
16 Handles, a popular dessert franchise, has appointed Fred Frey vice president of franchise development. Frey leverages a successful track record in franchise development with Shipley Do-Nuts and HTeaO to help drive 16 Handles’ expansion into new markets.
“I’m thrilled to be joining 16 Handles at such a pivotal time in its expansion,” Frey said. “The brand’s modern store design, high-quality product lineup and strong franchisee support system create an incredible opportunity for growth, and I’m excited to be working with the team to bring 16 Handles to new communities nationwide.”
Frey said he and 16 Handles CEO Neil Hershman immediately aligned on the vision for the brand’s growth. Frey also recalled the positive impression he gained from a visit with his family to a Texas franchise owned by entrepreneurs Ryan and Crystal Waugh, who raved about the support they received from Hershman and Operations Vice President Lisa Mallon. “The wide variety of flavors and inviting atmosphere pulled us in,” Frey said. “My kids had a blast trying everything, and by the time we left, I turned to my wife and said, ‘This is something we can grow nationwide.’”
Hershman said Frey’s successes in franchise development will be useful in propelling 16 Handles’ growth. “His experience in driving expansion and supporting franchisees aligns with our mission to make 16 Handles a go-to destination in communities across the country. We’re excited to have him on board as we continue to innovate and grow,” Hershman said.
Success in Franchise Expansion
Frey’s most recent experience was as director of franchise development for Shipley Do-Nuts, where he led the brand’s largest expansion to date. Prior to that, he served as franchise development manager for iced tea brand HTeaO, leading its expansion into 12 states.
Citing Shipley Do-Nuts’ record growth, he said, “seeing firsthand what it takes to rapidly scale a brand made it clear to me that any concept I want to be a part of moving forward needs to have the right team and leadership in place to grow at that same level.”
A Career Pivot
Frey’s early career was in finance, which has been helpful in emphasizing to aspiring entrepreneurs the importance of securing funding, he said. His finance career took an unexpected turn after Frey met Andrew Hawes, the franchise development officer for HTeaO. After learning about HTeaO’s impressive growth, Frey decided to pivot to franchising.
“Seeing how franchising empowers entrepreneurs by giving them a proven model to own and grow their own businesses while being part of a larger, supportive network is rewarding,” he said, adding that he advises anyone considering franchising to take the leap. “Instead of working for someone else and making them money, start a business for yourself and build your own future.”
About 16 Handles
Founded in Manhattan’s East Village in 2008, 16 Handles has expanded to 35-plus locations with a menu that includes frozen yogurt, ice cream, vegan soft serve, drinks and more.
