News

FreshBerry expands Middle East operations

March 1, 2011

Beautiful Brands International (BBI) has announced the opening of 12 new FreshBerry stores in the Middle East. It’s the biggest overseas expansion for the Tulsa, Okla.-based company and coincides with its 40th FreshBerry store opening in the United States, in Wellington, Fla.

“We’re thrilled we’re able to celebrate two tremendous milestones — strong growth in the Middle East fro-yo Market and our 40th FreshBerry store opening,” said David Rutkauskas, Beautiful Brands founder, president and CEO. “It’s a real testimony to our global appeal and inspired innovation as a company. I believe our wave of growth is ignited by our unique concept and strategy for promoting our brand.”

The Middle East openings are a result of an agreement between BBI and Saudi-based United Food Company to market and franchise the frozen yogurt concept throughout the region. Both companies anticipate continued success for the brand and the opening of even more units in countries such as Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, the United Arab Emirates, Jordan and Egypt.

In the US, FreshBerry expects continued growth with openings in Miami, Atoka, Okla., and Greater Denver. The FreshBerry franchise system is on track to double in growth by the end of the fourth quarter of 2011.

“The BBI office has been extremely busy with international calls, Skype conferences, traveling, and lots of high fives as we've reached this goal,” Rutkauskas said. “We’re getting calls from potential franchisees worldwide who are beginning to hear about the terrific potential of FreshBerry, the co-branding with Smallcakes, and wanting to invest in our concept. I believe more and more, people are being drawn to the simplicity of our business model, our new products, and the uniqueness of our creamy fro-yo taste. It’s what’s spurring our growth globally and taking us to a whole new level of success.”