News

Jersey home to CUPS first franchise

March 22, 2013

CUPS Frozen Yogurt – That's Hot, a beach-themed, self-serve fro-yo concept, has chosen Rockaway, N.J., as the city for its first franchise location. The new unit opens 7 p.m., March 28 at Rockaway Townsquare, 301 Mount Hope Ave. CUPS opened its 10th company location two months ago in Carle Place, N.Y., and since 2012, has signed more than 10 new area development agreements representing 25 franchise units in New Jersey, New York and Florida, according to a company press release.

From March 28 to March 31, the Rockaway CUPS will donate 15 percent of sales to the Sandy New Jersey Relief Fund. Also during the grand opening week, each Rockaway customer will receive a scratch-off card, which contains prizes such as wristbands, beach balls, water bottles, beach towels and CUPS coupons. One winner will receive free fro-yo for a year.

Susan Witham, the Rockaway CUPS franchisee, has 30 years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry with 12 years managing and leading regulatory and quality teams. She most recently owned and managed a tanning salon.

The first CUPS opened in 2010, in Clifton, N.J., allowing guests to create their own fro-yo concoctions choosing from 24 yogurt flavors, more than 50 different toppings and three sauces. What sets the chain apart from competitors, said co-founder Rick Barbrick, is that it's more than frozen yogurt.

"It's more of a club like experience. We pump out club dance music at volumes that create a highly energetic vibe, a lounge-type design with couches, ottomans and eclectic murals; and Cast Members with infectiously fun personalities," he said. "It's the complete experience that gives us that edgy vibe versus an everyday yogurt bar or ice cream shop experience."

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