Feature Photo: View of a grand opening celebration in Missouri City earlier this year. Image: 16 Handles.

Posted: 1-11-2026

by Art Benavidez

San Antonio (Bexar County) — Upscale frozen yogurt and dessert franchise 16 Handles is ramping up its expansion in Texas, positioning the state as a key growth market as the brand continues to build momentum nationwide.

The New York–based concept has already established a presence in Texas and is planning additional locations across the state, including new market entries in San Antonio and the University of Texas at Austin area, as well as further expansion in the Houston and Dallas metros. Several Texas locations are part of a broader development pipeline that reflects increasing franchise interest and strong early performance in the state.

Texas growth is part of a broader expansion strategy that saw 16 Handles open eight new stores across four states in 2025 and sign 25 new franchise agreements nationwide. Multiple newly opened locations are on pace to surpass $1 million in revenue within their first year of operation, a notable benchmark in the frozen dessert category. Some stores have also posted record-setting grand opening sales, driven by local marketing efforts and a streamlined operational model.

The brand now has 32 additional stores under development, bringing its total footprint to 67 open or in-development locations. Company officials say Texas has emerged as a particularly attractive market due to population growth, strong consumer demand for premium dessert concepts, and favorable conditions for multi-unit franchise development.

16 Handles offers a rotating menu of 16 soft-serve flavors, more than 50 toppings and sauces, and an expanded lineup that includes frozen cakes, take-home pints, and gourmet edible cookie dough. The brand has gained attention for limited-edition flavors alongside classic offerings, reinforcing its appeal to a broad customer base.

With continued investment and new store openings planned, 16 Handles’ growing Texas footprint is expected to play a central role in the brand’s next phase of national expansion.

Your next project opportunity is just a click away, or call us at 1.877.221.6418. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn.