Original State of Frozen Yogurt Research from the International Frozen Yogurt Association

Fro-yo girl here. The International Frozen Yogurt Association just completed its state of frozen yogurt industry survey project. There were two sets of surveys, with data gathered from online surveys this fall.

The research project was inspired by the desire to learn more about the frozen yogurt industry by asking consumers and shop owners. Some of the goals of the research were to:

• Give shop owners a chance to learn how they compared to other frozen yogurt shops and to hear what consumers were looking for
• Provide suppliers information about frozen yogurt shops and how the shops felt about their suppliers
• Allow members and others a chance to provide suggestions on how the IFYA could better serve its members

National Frozen Yogurt Consumer Survey

The IFYA sponsored the first National Frozen Yogurt Consumer Survey during the fall of 2017 and received 174 responses from across the US.

The survey included questions about loyalty, current consumption, future consumption, frozen yogurt attitudes, and preferences and demographics. Consumers were asked how much they liked the major frozen yogurt chains, what shop attributes were important, what might increase their frozen yogurt shop visits, how often they consume frozen yogurt, taste preferences, etc. In the analysis, the IFYA looked at differences based on gender, age, region (geographic location) and frequency of froyo shop visits.

The full results are available for $150. To order the report or for more information, please contact info@internationalfrozenyogurt.com

National Frozen Yogurt Shop Owner Survey

In September 2017, the IFYA invited frozen yogurt shop owners in the United States to take an anonymous online survey. The survey included questions such as how many hours a week do you spend managing the shop, what items does your shop sell (besides frozen yogurt), how well is your shop doing in terms of sales compared to this time last year, how satisfied are you with your decision to open your business, etc.

The IFYA received 59 responses from frozen yogurt shop owners. During the analysis, the IFYA looked at differences based on age of the shop, how much time the owner spends managing the shop, whether the owner had experience managing a foodservice business, and several other variables.

The full results are available for $150. To order the report or for more information, please contact us at info@internationalfrozenyogurt.com

About the International Frozen Yogurt Association

The International Frozen Yogurt Association (IFYA) serves as an unbiased source of support and information for current and prospective frozen yogurt store operators. The Association sets and promotes standards to elevate the quality of frozen yogurt stores through the Swirl of Honor™ program. IFYA represents frozen yogurt shops, suppliers and consumers across the world. Visit the IFYA website, http://internationalfrozenyogurt.com/, for additional information.

You know you love me. X0 X0, fro-yo girl.

Looking for more frozen yogurt news, discussion boards, and resources? Check out the International Frozen Yogurt Association website at http://internationalfrozenyogurt.com/. The IFYA is the independent voice of the frozen yogurt industry.

Givat Yogolite Yogurt Review

Fro-yo girl here. I stocked up on kosher Cholov Yisroel yogurt on a recent trip to Livonia Glatt Market. Givat Yogolite is a line of Swiss style, nonfat blended yogurt with live and active cultures, from Givat Dairy of Elizabeth, NJ. Each cup is 5 oz. Livonia was selling Yogolite for $1.39.

Cholov Yisroel means that the entire production process was under strict and diligent rabbi supervision. It is a higher standard of kosher dairy.

* Espresso coffee yogurt: Since it’s European/Swiss style yogurt, I don’t think it was strained. It was thin and smooth. The flavor was incredibly sweet though it had some tang and a mild coffee flavor. It was so sweet that I couldn’t eat it until I blended it with some plain yogurt to cut the sweetness. The yogurt had 26g of sugars and 130 calories.

Ingredients: Cultured pasteurized grade A nonfat milk, sugar, coffee, modified food starch, natural & artificial flavor, citric acid, lemon juice concentrate, potassium sorbate, caramel color, live and active cultures

Other flavors from Yogolite include Vanilla, Strawberry, Plain, Peach, Berry Blend, Field Berry, Strawberry Banana.

You know you love me. X0 X0, fro-yo girl.

2.5 out of 5 stars.

* LIVONIA GLATT MARKET: 8922 W Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90035

Looking for more frozen yogurt news, discussion boards, and resources? Check out the International Frozen Yogurt Association website at http://internationalfrozenyogurt.com/. The IFYA is the independent voice of the frozen yogurt industry.

South Lake Avenue's Holidayfest Returns on December 2 in Pasadena

Fro-yo girl here. South Lake Avenue’s Holidayfest returns this year on Saturday, December 2, 2017, from 12 PM – 5 PM. I’ve attended several times and the event seems to grow every year. The event includes:

• Complimentary Parking, Admission & Holiday Activities
• In-Store Specials and Promotions
• Photos with Santa
• Horse and Carriage Rides
• Holiday Characters
• Live Music and Carolers
• A Scavenger Hunt (Yogurtland participated last year)
• Holiday Crafts for the Kids

Yogurtland will be participating again. The scavenger hunt last year included really great prizes for those who complete the hunt. One of the prizes was from Yogurtland.

This year, during Holidayfest you can get 3 oz of free froyo with an 8 oz minimum purchase at Yogurtland's Lake Avenue location.

Many of the shops and restaurants around South Lake Avenue are participating, including Dunkin’, Urban Plates, Veggie Grill, Salad Farm, Corner Bakery Café, etc.

For full details, see: http://www.southlakeavenue.org/events/calendar/south-lakes-2017-holidayfest-12-5pm/

You know you love me. X0 X0, fro-yo girl.

Looking for more frozen yogurt news, discussion boards, and resources? Check out the International Frozen Yogurt Association website at http://internationalfrozenyogurt.com/. The IFYA is the independent voice of the frozen yogurt industry.

Black Friday Froyo Specials

Fro-yo girl here. Since I spotted multiple Black Friday froyo specials, I decided to compile them for froyo fans. The specials are listed in alphabetical order.

• 16 Handles (Lynbrook, NY): On Black Friday, get your $100 gift cards for $75
• Culture Froyo (Effingham, IL): Buy one gift card, get a second one of equal or lesser value FREE!!! Mention the Instagram post. Offer good from 11/22-11/26/2017. 
• Green Mango (Grenoble, France): 20% off your purchase from 11/22 - 11/24/2017
• Happy Cow (Wesley Chapel, FL): For each $25 in gift cards purchased, get a free $10 bonus card
• Island Yogurt (Aiea, HI): Buy a gift card and get a second one of equal value for free on November 24, 2017.
• Let's Swirl (Kalamazoo, MI): Buy a $10 gift card and get 8 oz froyo for free on 11/24
• Llaollao (Saudi Arabia): Buy 2 cups, get 1 free on 11/24/2017
• Menchie’s Vanowen (Winnetka, CA): Fill your cup for $6 on Black Friday, 11/24/2017
• Menchie’s The District (Temple, TX): 50% off your froyo on November 24th
• Menchie's (Rancho Cordova, CA): 50% off your froyo on November 24th 
• Menchie's Gateway (Springfield, OR): Get a free $5 gift card when you make any purchase of $10 or more on 11/24
• Menchie's (Glendale, CA): 50% off your froyo on 11/24/2017
• Menchie's (Flowery Branch, GA): 50% off your froyo on 11/24/2017
• Menchie's (Centerville, UT): 50% off your froyo on 11/24/2017
• Menchie's (Doral, FL): 50% off your froyo on 11/24/2017
• Menchie's (Palmdale, CA): Buy one, get one free on Thanksgiving and Black Friday
• Menchie's Crossroads Towne Center (Gilbert, AZ): Buy one, get one free on Black Friday
• Menchie's San Tan Village (Gilbert, AZ): Buy one, get one free all day on 11/24
• OBX Frozen Yogurt (Southern Shores, NC): During Black Friday and holiday weekend, purchase $25 in gift certificates and get a $5 free gift card. Spend $50 and a get a $10 free gift card.
• Orange Leaf (Kentucky locations): Buy one, get one free from Nov. 20 - Nov. 24, closed on Thanksgiving
• PennyLane Yogurt (Campbell, CA): From 11 AM – 4 PM, buy one gift card, get one free (of equal or lesser value). From 4 PM – close, buy one gift card get the second one half off (of equal or lesser value on 11/24/2017.
• Red Mango (UT): BOGO free deal from 10:30 AM - 3 PM on 11/24/2017
• sweet Frog (Salisbury, NC): Buy one, get one of equal or lesser value free on November 24
• sweetFrog (Danville, VA): Buy one froyo, get one 50% off on 11/24
• sweetFrog (Ashland, VA): Spend $30 in gift cards on Black Friday (11/24), get $10 in free gift cards
• Swirl It (Gilbert, AZ): 25% off froyo Nov. 21-26, gift card specials: $20 for $25, $10 for $8, $5 for $4 from 11/21 - 12/24/2017
• Swirls Frozen Yogurt (Paducah, KY): On Black Friday, spend a total of $25 on gift cards, receive a free 8oz coupon. Half off of fro-yo-gatos.
• TCBY (Moss Bluff, LA): $10.00 gift cards on sale for $5.00 from 10 AM - 1 PM on Friday, Nov. 24
• U-Swirl (Waco, TX): $5 flat rate cups on 11/24
• Yo Mama! (WI): Buy a gift card, get an equal value card for free on 11/24/2017
• Yog Bar (UK): 50% off everything all day on 11/24
• Yogurberry (Nigeria): 20% off cups till 6 PM on 11/24
• Yogurt Breeze (Lake Nona, FL): Buy one, get one free (equal or lesser value) on 11/24/2017
• Yogurtland Lake Ave. (Pasadena, CA): Buy one, get one free (excludes gift cards) on 11/24/2017 from 11 AM – 2 PM.
• Yogurtland (Chino Hills, CA): Black Friday coupon voucher booklets go on sale on 11/24/2017
• Yogurtland Beverly Connection (Los Angeles, CA): Come in from 11am -1pm with your Black Friday shopping receipt and get $1 off your purchase. Leave your name and phone number to enter the drawing for FREE 15 catering cups raffle that will take place at 7pm. 
• Yogurtland (New Orleans, LA): $5 flat rate cups all day on Nov. 24
• YoJay's (Forest Park, GA): 50% off on November 24
• Zoyo (AZ): Fill your cup for $5 on 11/24, all day

You can also view Black Friday froyo specials on this Pinterest board, https://www.pinterest.com/froyogirl/black-friday-froyo-specials/

I know that I'm going to be eating froyo on Black Friday.

You know you love me. X0 X0, fro-yo girl.

Looking for more frozen yogurt news, discussion boards, and resources? Check out the International Frozen Yogurt Association website at http://internationalfrozenyogurt.com/. The IFYA is the independent voice of the frozen yogurt industry.

Mehadrin Yo Bar Review

Fro-yo girl here. Mehadrin Yo Bar is a kosher Cholov Yisroel chocolate dipped Greek yogurt bar that I found in the refrigerated section of Livonia Glatt Market for $1.99. Cholov Yisroel means that the entire production process was under strict and diligent rabbi supervision. It is a higher standard of kosher dairy.

Yo Bar comes in three flavors: Vanilla, Coffee and Hazelnut. The yogurt is strained and coated in a thin dark chocolate layer. It has over 25 billion probiotics, 110 calories, 6g protein, 5g fat and 10g sugars. One bar is 1.76 oz.

* Yo Bar Coffee: The bar was soft and super creamy, similar to cream cheese in texture. The yogurt was sweet and tangy. I wasn’t expecting such a soft bar. The chocolate and coffee complemented each other though they didn’t pair as well with the tanginess of the yogurt. It’s an interesting, rich snack that reminds me of a tangy truffle. Definitely have it with a drink.

Ingredients: Strained yogurt (pasteurized lowfat milk, active cultures), chocolate glaze (cocoa, granulated sugar, palm kernel oil, soy lecithin, milk solids, salt), granulated sugar, butter, instant coffee, xanthan gum, potassium sorbate.

You know you love me. X0 X0, fro-yo girl.

4 out of 5 stars.

* LIVONIA GLATT MARKET: 8922 W Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90035

Looking for more frozen yogurt news, discussion boards, and resources? Check out the International Frozen Yogurt Association website at http://internationalfrozenyogurt.com/. The IFYA is the independent voice of the frozen yogurt industry.

Gevina Farms Yogurt Review

Fro-yo girl here. Gevina Farms has a line of kosher Cholov Yisroel Greek yogurt with live and active cultures that’s strained, rBST rBGH free milk, gluten free and made wth 2% lowfat milk. Cholov Yisroel means that the entire production process was under strict and diligent rabbi supervision. It is a higher standard of kosher dairy.

One cup is 5.3 oz and 2 for $3 at Livonia Glatt Market. It has 150 calories, 18g sugars, and 2.5g total fat.

* Mocha Café Greek: Of the kosher Greek yogurts that I tried (Norman’s, Givat), Gevina’s tasted the best. It was sweet and tangy with a mild mocha flavor. The texture was creamy, thicker and smooth. Norman's didn't mention any straining of their Greek yogurt.

Ingredients: Cultured pasteurized lowfat milk, water, sugar, modified food starch, dietary fiber, coffee powder, pectin, caramel (for color), locust bean gum, potassium sorbate, artificial flavor, citric acid, calcium lactate.

Other flavors from Yogolite include Cherry, Canadian Maple, Chocolate, Mixed Berry, Strawberry, Strawberry Banana, Peach, Plain, Blueberry, Vanilla.

You know you love me. X0 X0, fro-yo girl.

3.5 out of 5 stars.

* LIVONIA GLATT MARKET: 8922 W Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90035

Looking for more frozen yogurt news, discussion boards, and resources? Check out the International Frozen Yogurt Association website at http://internationalfrozenyogurt.com/. The IFYA is the independent voice of the frozen yogurt industry.

Menchie’s 2017 Holiday Flavors, Part 2

Fro-yo girl here. More festive holiday flavors have arrived at Menchie’s, for a limited time:

• Espresso brownie (new): A new lowfat flavor made with real coffee, real cocoa and real cake batter, it’s rich and intense. If you like coffee, cocoa or the combination of those two flavors, you will enjoy espresso brownie. Recommended toppings: I would lighten it up with Cool Whip and white chocolate chips
• Holiday eggnog: This returning holiday favorite is lowfat and contains nutmeg, ginger and eggs, with no high fructose corn syrup. I like it better than actual eggnog. It’s like an enhanced vanilla flavor. Recommended toppings: Ande’s Mints, almonds and Cool Whip

I didn’t see any hint of a holiday spoon but they still had holiday cups. Remember, the holiday gift card promotion is back. Get a free bonus $5 gift card for every $25 in gift cards purchased.

You know you love me. X0 X0, fro-yo girl.

Looking for more frozen yogurt news, discussion boards, and resources? Check out the International Frozen Yogurt Association website at http://internationalfrozenyogurt.com/. The IFYA is the independent voice of the frozen yogurt industry.

Yogurtland Ultimate Creation Event Recap

Fro-yo girl here. I couldn’t miss the first ever Ultimate Creation event, even though I find it difficult to build an unlimited cup when it’s crowded. Ideally, I would have the place to myself so I could swirl, add toppings, swirl some more, etc. But there were plenty of enticements – like the new “Made With Ghirardelli” flavors, Frozen Hot Chocolate frozen yogurt and Dark Chocolate Blueberry sorbet, new toppings, new sauces, new spoons and new cups.

During the event on November 14 from 4 PM – 9 PM local time, 16 oz cups were just $5. My creation was 32.5 oz (after the weight of the cup was deducted). I took some Ghirardelli cups and spoons home.

I tried the new Dark Chocolate Blueberry Sorbet which was “inspired by Ghirardelli’s Dark Chocolate Blueberry square…this sorbet provides delicious dark chocolate flavor from Ghirardelli cocoa, followed by notes of sweet blueberry.” It delivered on the promised flavor and wasn’t icy. It was an interesting flavor but I’m personally not a fan of the chocolate and fruit combination. Recommended toppings: blueberries, Ghirardelli chocolate chips, graham cracker crumbs.

I’m happy that they brought back Pumpkin Pie froyo! Thanks, Yogurtland!!!

You know you love me. X0 X0, fro-yo girl.

Looking for more frozen yogurt news, discussion boards, and resources? Check out the International Frozen Yogurt Association website at http://internationalfrozenyogurt.com/. The IFYA is the independent voice of the frozen yogurt industry.

Bloomfield Creamery Opens in Pasadena

Fro-yo girl here. Bloomfield Creamery opened last weekend. They took over the space that Yoguroo occupied that later became The Blissery Frozen Yogurt. Bloomfield Creamery has lots of dessert options, including small batch housemade ice cream, housemade edible cookie dough, self-serve frozen yogurt and soft serve, milkshakes, cookies, ice cream paninis, homemade waffle cones and beverages.

The inside looks less colorful than it did before. It’s all white now but the general layout looks the same, with tables on the left, froyo towards the back, and the toppings counter (joined by cookie dough and ice cream) near the front. I find the all white look soothing and clean.

There are 10 froyo and soft serve flavors on tap and a small but nice toppings bar (chocolate chips, fruit, nuts, mochi, cookies, candy, granola, sprinkles, coconut, cheesecake, sauces). It’s 40 cents an ounce (very reasonable). I found the textures to be rich, creamy, and smooth. Ask for sample cups.

Froyo & soft serve flavors of the day:

• Cake batter
• Cinnamon toast soft serve (made with almond milk)
• Chocolate custard
• Vanilla custard
• Cookies & cream yogurt
• Strawberry yogurt
• Tart yogurt
• Dole pineapple whip
• Honey-berry yogurt (no flavor card, not sure what it was called)
• (One flavor wasn’t available)

They haven’t made it easy to combine the cookie dough with the froyo but it can be done. Ask for a scoop of cookie dough after they’ve weighed your yogurt.

You know you love me. X0 X0, fro-yo girl.

* BLOOMFIELD CREAMERY: 1727 E Washington Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91104

Looking for more frozen yogurt news, discussion boards, and resources? Check out the International Frozen Yogurt Association website at http://internationalfrozenyogurt.com/. The IFYA is the independent voice of the frozen yogurt industry.

Save the Date, Nov. 14, for Yogurtland’s First-Ever $5 Ultimate Creation Event

Fro-yo girl here. Froyo fans and Yogurtland fans in particular, you won’t want to miss the first ever Ultimate Creation event at Yogurtland locations across the US on November 14 from 4 PM – 9 PM local time.

So, what happens at the Ultimate Creation event? It’s your chance to create your Ultimate Creation. During the event, 16 oz cups are just $5 regardless of the weight of your froyo and toppings. It’s more than a flat rate cup event though. Yogurtland is also offering two new flavors “Made With Ghirardelli” – Frozen Hot Chocolate frozen yogurt and Dark Chocolate Blueberry sorbet. And they’ll have new Ghirardelli sauces and toppings. 

If that weren’t special enough, they’ll also have limited edition cups and spoons. The spoons are dark blue and they say I (heart) Ghirardelli. Get there early, so that you avoid being disappointed once they run out. Supplies are limited.

The Yogurtland website currently shows the countdown to the big event.

You know you love me. X0 X0, fro-yo girl.

Here’s the official press release from Yogurtland:

Yogurtland Offers $5 Ultimate Creation Cup on November 14

Featuring Two Limited Time Flavors Made With Ghirardelli® And Limited Edition Collectable Spoon 

(IRVINE, CA) November 1, 2017— On Tuesday, November 14, Yogurtland fans will have an even greater reason to celebrate with Yogurtland’s $5 Ultimate Creation. From 4PM-9PM local time, for just $5 dessert lovers can visit their local Yogurtland and swirl up their own 16oz ultimate creation with any of the 16 available frozen yogurt and ice cream flavors, including two new limited-time flavors Made With Ghirardelli.The two flavors are:

Frozen Hot Chocolate- Combining the perfect blend of rich Ghirardelli cocoa, cream, and marshmallow, this flavor takes winter’s favorite hot drink and perfects it in frozen form.

Dark Chocolate Blueberry Sorbet- Inspired by Ghirardelli’s Dark Chocolate Blueberry square, this sorbet provides delicious dark chocolate flavor from Ghirardelli cocoa, followed by notes of sweet blueberry.

Yogurtland guests can pick up their ‘I Heart Ghirardelli’ cup and swirl up their choice between two flavors Made With Ghirardelli or both, and head over to the topping bar to build their satisfying, delicious creation with even more Ghirardelli goodness with Ghirardelli toppings and sauces. With over 60 fruit, candy, cereal, nuts, cookies and other toppings to choose from, Yogurtland offers fans the chance to completely customize their ultimate creation experience with all their favorite additions.

“We are thrilled to be partnering with Ghirardelli for our $5 Ultimate Creation event,” said Chad Bailey, senior director of marketing, Yogurtland. “Our fans have always surprised us with their creative treat creations, and we wanted to celebrate that by giving them the perfect opportunity to meet their ultimate froyo desires for just $5.”

Yogurtland’s flavorologists are continually seeking craveable flavors that keep fans loving their experience. Yogurtland owns its own dairy and by controlling the frozen yogurt making process, the company can deliver the highest quality flavors, setting new standards for millions of fans.

All of Yogurtland’s flavors meet the National Yogurt Association Criteria for “live and active culture frozen yogurt” and are produced in a kosher-certified facility. Yogurtland features non-fat and low-fat yogurt flavors as well as non-dairy and no sugar added choices while using milk that does not contain antibiotics or added hormones. Fruit flavors are fortified with Vitamin C for an extra boost.

Presently Yogurtland has more than 320 locations across the U.S., Australia, Dubai, Guam, Korea, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand, and Venezuela. Flavors are always subject to creative change and popular demand. For more information, visit http://www.yogurt-land.com or http://www.facebook.com/yogurtland.

Looking for more frozen yogurt news, discussion boards, and resources? Check out the International Frozen Yogurt Association website at http://internationalfrozenyogurt.com/. The IFYA is the independent voice of the frozen yogurt industry.

Veterans Day Froyo Offers

Fro-yo girl here. Happy Pre-Veterans Day and thank you vets, for your service to this country. Here are the Veterans Day froyo offers that I spotted:

• 3 Spoons (Waco, TX): Enjoy a free 16oz yogurt or crepe on 11.11.17 when you present your military ID or proof of service at the register! 
• Aloha Yogurt (Tempe, AZ): Show your military ID for 25% off on 11/11/17
• Arctic Ape (San Antonio, TX): All active duty and Veterans receive 20% off their dessert purchase on November 11
• Ayelada: As a small token of our thanks all Veterans and active-duty military receive a large loaded or pint of your choice on November 11
• Beach N' Yogurt (Avila Beach, CA): 25% off for all Veterans on November 11 & 12. 
• Brrrberry (Wilmington, NC): 50% off for active or retired military, just show military ID on November 11
• Caffe Fresco (Tampa, FL): Show your military ID for a FREE handpacked froyo on November 10 (Limit one per customer)
• Chillz (CA): Buy one, get one free November 10 - 12
• Chippies (Cocoa, FL): Show military ID on 11/11 for $1 off
• Emerson’s by the Bay (Baltimore, MD) is honoring veterans with a free froyo on November 11. Must show proof of service.
• Feeney's (Greensboro & High Point, NC) is offering 4 oz free on November 10 & 11
• Froyo Munster (Munster, IN) is offering a free cup or cone to veterans & active duty military all day on November 11
• Hall of Scoops (Chappaqua, NY): On November 10, veterans can enjoy free froyo or free ice cream
• Happy Cow Frozen Yogurt (Wesley Chapel, FL): Receive a free 6 oz cup of froyo with military ID on November 11
• House of Yogurt (Costa Mesa, CA): 8 oz free froyo for veterans and active military with military ID on 11/11
• Loving Cup: Vets and active military get 50% off with military ID card on 11.11.17
• Menchie’s Veterans Day special is back. Go to Menchie’s on Veterans Day (November 11th) for your cup of free frozen yogurt (up to 6 ounces). This offer is good for all veterans and active military personal. Must show military ID/proof of service or be in uniform.
• Monster Yogurt (Dallas, TX): Veterans are invited to enjoy free froyo on November 11
• OBX Frozen Yogurt (Southern Shores, NC) invites all active duty and retired military men and women to enjoy a FREE 8 oz. cup of #OBXFroYo with a military or veterans ID on November 11️
• Orange Leaf (Cypress & The Woodlands, TX; Eagle, ID): Vets get 50% off on November 11
• Peachwave (Simsbury, CT) will provide a free white cup of froyo to all active, inactive and retired military personnel on November 11 (*must provide valid ID for proof of service)
• Peachwave (Prosper, TX): Veterans enjoy a buy one, get one free deal all day on November 11
• Peachwave (Kalamazoo, MI): On November 10 & 11, all active, inactive and retired military personnel receive 50% off their yogurt with valid ID
• Spoons Frozen Yogurt (Porterville, CA): Veterans and active military get a free 8 oz yogurt all day on 11/11/17
• Sweet Creations (Fuquy Varina, NC): Stop by on November 11 and enjoy 25% off your purchase
• sweetFrog: Show your military ID for a free small cup of froyo on November 11 (veterans and active military)
• Tartberry (Portland, OR): Enjoy 20% off w/ military ID or if you're in uniform on November 11
• TCBY (Winston Salem, NC) wants to honor vets with 6 oz of free froyo on November 11
• TCBY (Plantation, FL): Free froyo for veterans on November 10
• TCBY (Moss Bluff, LA): 6 oz free froyo on 11/11/17, just show military ID
• TJ's Frozen Yogurt (San Angelo, TX): Present your military ID for $1 off on November 11
• Urban Swirl (IN): 4oz free for anyone who has served or is serving our country! Please show military ID. Offer good on 11.11.17
• Yo Wild (Redmond, OR): Veterans get a free small or medium yogurt on 11/11/17 (bring military ID)
• Yodels (Muskegon, MI): Free cup of froyo for veterans and active military on November 11 (with ID) 
• Yogurt Breeze (Orlando, FL) is offering a free “fill the cone” for veterans on November 11. Be prepared to show proof with your ID
• Yogurt Mill: Show your military ID for a free small froyo on 11/11
• The Yogurt Shoppe (CA): Veterans and troops, come get a free 8oz. yogurt as a small token of great appreciation on November 11
• Yogurtology brings back its Veterans Day offer with 5 ounces of free frozen yogurt to each veteran or active military personnel member who visits a participating location.
• Yogurtland (Bountiful, Jordan Landing, Logan, & Sugarhouse, UT): Show your military ID to get a free cup of froyo on November 10 & 11
• Yogurtland (Anaheim, Azusa, Garden Grove, CA): Buy one, get one free on November 10 with a valid military ID card 
• Yogurtini Plaza (Kansas City): Veterans & active duty receive free froyo (up to $5 value) on November 11. Everyone else - get for 20% off your order. ⠀⠀
• YoJay's (Forest Park, GA) is offering 1/2 off froyo for veterans on November 13
• Yolo Triangle (Morrisville, NC): Enjoy a Free 8oz frozen yogurt Friday Nov 10 - Sunday Nov 12. Just show military ID at checkout (veterans and active military)
• YoPlace (Long Beach, CA): $1 for vets and active military on November 11
• Yumberries (Hermitage, PA): Get a free cup of froyo (up to $5) w/ military ID on 11/11
• Yummee Yogurt (Peoria, AZ): All veterans and active military, enjoy 20% off your order on November 10 and 11 

I'll update this list if I find more offers.

You know you love me. X0 X0, fro-yo girl.

Looking for more frozen yogurt news, discussion boards, and resources? Check out the International Frozen Yogurt Association website at http://internationalfrozenyogurt.com/. The IFYA is the independent voice of the frozen yogurt industry.

Bella Frozen Yogurt Grand Opening in Downtown Los Angeles

Fro-yo girl here. I’m back from the Bella Frozen Yogurt grand opening and this is what I learned. First, it’s a small shop, so expect to take it to go unless you can snag one of two tables. Second, it’s right downtown – steps from the Pershing Square Metro station and close to Grand Central Market. Third, it’s not self-serve. Surprising, right? 

There are three soft serve machines, so they can offer 6 flavors at a time. There are two froyo sizes and the price includes one topping: Small $3.50, Regular $5. The toppings bar is smaller. Toppings include: fruit, marshmallows, cookies, coconut, mochi, sprinkles, candy, cereal, etc. You can add additional toppings for 25 cents each.

I ordered a small and the cup was pretty small (not much froyo), though I received a good amount of strawberries and a color changing spoon. I do like Tutti Frutti's original tart flavor. It's tangy, smooth and creamy. It's also flavorful. 

I noticed they had Wellspring soft serve machines, the ones offered by Tutti Frutti. It turns out their frozen yogurt is from Tutti Frutti too. It's a Tutti Frutti but it's not called Tutti Frutti. Since the other Tutti Frutti locations in downtown LA closed, this is the only TF in downtown.

The grand opening special is good all day today: buy one, get one free frozen yogurt. It looks like they close at 9 PM.

They serve Klatch coffee (a local roaster), Dole Whip, frozen yogurt, muffins and assorted beverages.

Service was friendly. They're open every day. Ask for froyo samples.

You know you love me. X0 X0, fro-yo girl.

* BELLA FROZEN YOGURT: 513 W 5th St., Suite 105, Los Angeles, CA 90013

Looking for more frozen yogurt news, discussion boards, and resources? Check out the International Frozen Yogurt Association website at http://internationalfrozenyogurt.com/. The IFYA is the independent voice of the frozen yogurt industry.

Bella Frozen Yogurt Grand Opening in Downtown Los Angeles on November 9

Fro-yo girl here. The downtown core of Los Angeles has always had limited froyo options. The Tutti Frutti locations closed and so did the froyo shop inside Grand Central Market. But a new shop is opening soon, Bella Yogurt. I don’t have much information about the new shop but according to their Instagram account, @bellayogurtdtla, the grand opening is November 9 and the froyo will be buy one, get one free. They serve coffee, Dole Whip and frozen yogurt. It looks like the took over the Il Macchiato Café. From the pictures, I can tell that it’s a small shop and it’s probably no frills.

You know you love me. X0 X0, fro-yo girl.

* BELLA FROZEN YOGURT: 513 W 5th St., Suite 105, Los Angeles, CA 90013

Looking for more frozen yogurt news, discussion boards, and resources? Check out the International Frozen Yogurt Association website at http://internationalfrozenyogurt.com/. The IFYA is the independent voice of the frozen yogurt industry.

Norman’s Yogurt Review

Fro-yo girl here. Norman’s Yogurt is a kosher Cholov Yisroel yogurt brand with several Greek yogurt lines, including Greek, Greek Pro, Greek Creamy, Greek Light, and Greek Kid. Greek Pro seemed the most promising because it has no sugar added and is the “first Greek yogurt ever to contain GanedenBC cultures. This highly shelf-stable probiotic guarantees 1 billion CFU’s at the time of consumption.”

Cholov Yisroel means that the entire production process was under strict and diligent rabbi supervision. It is a higher standard of kosher dairy.

* Greek Pro Superfruit (blueberry, acai, pomegranate): I was expecting a nice, sour yogurt but the yogurt was actually too sweet in a very processed way. Yes, they call it naturally sweetened but it didn’t taste natural to me. I found out it has Stevia and Xylitol, both sweeteners. It’s sour at first but it has a very sweet, artificial aftertaste. The texture wasn’t right either. It was too thin for a Greek yogurt. And a good Greek yogurt shouldn’t contain food starch as this one does. I struggled to finish one cup. It left a strange taste in my mouth.

One cup is 5.3 oz and $1.99 at Livonia Glatt Market. It’s nonfat, 80 calories, 3g sugars, and free of artificial flavors and colors.

Ingredients: Cultured pasteurized grade A skim milk, nonfat milk solids, xylitol, pomegranate juice concentrate, blueberry juice concentrate, acai juice concentrate, modified food starch, monk fruit, stevia, natural flavor, pectin, citric acid, natural food coloring, potassium sorbate, bacillus coagulais

Greek Pro comes in the following flavors: Superfruit, Vanilla Bean, Strawberry, Plain, Roast Coffee

2 out of 5 stars.

The Greek Creamy line is a smooth blended yogurt with 2% milkfat, no artificial flavors or colors and live and active cultures. One cup was $1.99 at Livonia Glatt Market.

* Greek Creamy Luscious Lemon: This was much better than Greek Pro. The texture was thicker and the flavor was better. It was quite sweet but also very tangy, which works well for a lemon flavor. It had an acidic flavor. They use thickeners when better Greek yogurts don’t. One cup was 140 calories, 2g fat, and 18g sugars.

Ingredients: Cultured pasteurized grade A nonfat milk, cream, sugar, fructose, lemon juice concentrate, modified food starch, locust bean gum, pectin, natural lemon flavor, natural food coloring, citric acid, potassium sorbate.

Greek Creamy comes in the following flavors: Blissful Blueberry, Caramel Caffé Macchiato, Luscious Lemon, Red Raspberry, Vanilla Lavender, Summer Strawberry, Madagascar Vanilla, Island Mango, Cinnamon Bun, Passion Fruit.

3 out of 5 stars.

You know you love me. X0 X0, fro-yo girl.

* LIVONIA GLATT MARKET: 8922 W Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90035

Looking for more frozen yogurt news, discussion boards, and resources? Check out the International Frozen Yogurt Association website at http://internationalfrozenyogurt.com/. The IFYA is the independent voice of the frozen yogurt industry.

Yoga-urt is Named Best of Glendale and It Introduces a New Flavor, in Honor of the Dodgers, Blue Warriors

Fro-yo girl here. Yoga-urt has a new limited time flavor called Blue Warriors, inspired by the Dodgers and the World Series. It’s a striking blue color thanks to the blue spirulina. The flavor is like Cracker Jacks, popcorn and peanuts, and it’s flavored with Yoga-urt’s caramel syrup, popcorn and peanuts. This is the sweetest thing ever and I hope the Dodgers take note.

Of course, it’s organic, vegan, non-GMO, soy-free, kosher, and all natural.

* Blue Warriors: It’s such an interesting flavor, with salty and sweet notes – the flavors of popcorn. I could definitely taste the peanuts too. It’s not too sweet or too salty.

And congratulations to Yoga-urt on being voted “Best of Glendale” in the ice cream and frozen category by the Glendale News Press readers.

You know you love me. X0 X0, fro-yo girl.

* YOGA-URT, 1407 ½ W Kenneth Rd., Glendale, CA 91201

Looking for more frozen yogurt news, discussion boards, and resources? Check out the International Frozen Yogurt Association website at http://internationalfrozenyogurt.com/. The IFYA is the independent voice of the frozen yogurt industry.

Brio! Probiotic Healthier Ice Cream Review

Fro-yo girl here. I first spotted Brio! at the new Grocery Outlet Bargain Market in San Gabriel, CA for $1.99 (for 14 ounces, regular retail price is $5.99). It’s relatively new and I hadn’t ever seen it before. Since it didn’t say ice cream on the packaging and it was probiotic, I thought it was frozen yogurt. However, I subsequently learned that Brio considers itself a healthier ice cream.

Brio starts with fresh, whole, organic, rBST-free milk from Wisconsin dairy farms. They then add premium, all-natural ingredients. It’s richer than frozen yogurt but lower in fat than premium ice cream. Brio is all-natural with probiotics, pre-biotics, anti-oxidants and omega 3-6-9s. It’s non-GMO, gluten free, with less sugar. One serving is ½ a cup, 150 calories, 7g total fat, 16g total carb, 14g sugars, and 6g protein and 40% fewer calories and 20% less sugar, and half the fat of super premium ice cream brands.

Flavors: Very strawberry, Madagascar vanilla, Café latte, Tropical mango, Vanilla caramel, Dark chocolate

* Madagascar vanilla: The color was darker and browner than I expected. The vanilla flavor was mild but the overall flavor was different and very pleasant. It tasted like caramelized sugar and grains (maybe the whey protein concentrate). It was sweet, creamy and smooth. The aftertaste was clean and buttery.

* Very strawberry: The strawberry flavor tasted like strawberries but with that same brown sugar/wheat flavor of the vanilla flavor.

I liked the vanilla flavor better because I think the brown sugar/wheat flavor complemented the vanilla more than the strawberry. For something that’s lower in sugar, it didn’t seem noticeably less sweet. It did feel indulgent. There was no tanginess, so it did taste like ice cream. I wanted to try other flavors, but the Grocery Outlet sold out of those.

Ingredients: Organic whole milk, natural fructose (sugar cane), whey protein concentrate, organic dried cane syrup, organic agave nectar, non-fat dry milk, organic canola oil, organic sunflower oil, organic inulin, pure vanilla extract, organic clarified butter, sunflower lecithin, guar gum, carrageenan, locust bean gum, probiotic (organic inulin, bacillus coagulans GBI-30 6086)

To find Brio, check out their store locator: https://briolovesyouback.com/store-locator/

4 out of 5 stars.

Looking for more frozen yogurt news, discussion boards, and resources? Check out the International Frozen Yogurt Association website at http://internationalfrozenyogurt.com/. The IFYA is the independent voice of the frozen yogurt industry.

Pinkberry Launches Pecan Pie Froyo, Other Promotions

Fro-yo girl here. Pinkberry has just launched its holiday flavor, Pecan Pie Frozen Yogurt. Pecan pie is a great choice for the holiday season. It’s warm and comforting. It was released today.

* Pecan Pie Frozen Yogurt: This is a non-tart flavor. I remember the Pinkberry Butter Pecan flavor and Pecan Pie is better because it doesn’t have that buttery note that I wasn’t too fond of. While I love tart froyo, the pecan pie froyo exceeded my expectations. It was light, creamy, smooth and not too sweet – but it still felt indulgent because of the taste of pecans and the wonderful toppings. Pinkberry recommends pairing Pecan Pie froyo with Cinnamon Crumble, Whipped Topping, Dulce de Leche and Candied Pecans. I definitely recommend getting the candied pecans and cinnamon crumble.

I noticed a new Pitch Perfect 3 promotion too. Name your Pinkberry creation, share a picture of your Pitch Perfect Pinkberry swirl to social media using the hashtag #PitchPerfectPinkberry for a chance to attend the Pitch Perfect 3 premiere and win other prizes.

Treat receipts are back. Check your Pinkberry receipt for the coupon. You can get a small yogurt or larger for 50% off the day after your purchase.

You know you love me. X0 X0, fro-yo girl.

Looking for more frozen yogurt news, discussion boards, and resources? Check out the International Frozen Yogurt Association website at http://internationalfrozenyogurt.com/. The IFYA is the independent voice of the frozen yogurt industry.

Here’s the official press release:

Pinkberry Launches New Pecan Pie Holiday Flavor

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., Nov. 3, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Pinkberry® (www.Pinkberry.com) is bringing more joy to our taste buds this holiday season with its brand new Pecan Pie Frozen Yogurt, available November 3 through January 4. The festive, non-tart flavor will also be featured as a combination called Perfect Slice O'Pie.

Pinkberry® spreads joy this holiday season with its new Pecan Pie Frozen Yogurt and Perfect Slice O’Pie combination, available for a limited time.

Made with Pecan Pie Frozen Yogurt topped with Cinnamon Crumble, Whipped Topping, Dulce de Leche and Candied Pecans, Perfect Slice O' Pie is a holiday treat that's worth cozying up to.

"Pinkberry is excited to celebrate the holiday season with a decadent new flavor and special combination," said Melissa Hubbell, director of marketing for Pinkberry. "Perfect Slice O' Pie is made with our new Pecan Pie Frozen Yogurt and delicious toppings to create a rich and tantalizing holiday flavor."

Promotional Flavor: Pecan Pie Frozen Yogurt

Promotional Combination: Perfect Slice O'Pie – Pecan Pie Frozen Yogurt topped with Cinnamon Crumble, Whipped Topping, Dulce de Leche and Candied Pecans

Pecan Pie Frozen Yogurt and Perfect Slice O'Pie are available at Pinkberry until January 4.

About Pinkberry

Pinkberry® launched in Los Angeles, CA in 2005 as the original brand that reinvented frozen yogurt. Today, over a decade later, Pinkberry continues to create great tasting treats with fresh ingredients in an experience comprised of distinctive product, outstanding service and inspirational design. At Pinkberry you can taste the difference of an uncompromising commitment to quality and freshness. Most recently, Pinkberry was acquired by Scottsdale, Arizona-based Kahala Brands™, one of the fastest growing franchising companies in the world with a portfolio of 22 quick-service restaurant brands and approximately 2900 locations in 28 countries.

For more information about Pinkberry, visit www.Pinkberry.com.

For more information about Kahala Brands, visit www.KahalaBrands.com.

View original content with multimedia: http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/pinkberry-launches-new-pecan-pie-holiday-flavor-300549071.html

Menchie’s 2017 Holiday Flavors and Holiday Promotions

Fro-yo girl here. The day after Halloween, Menchie’s announced its holiday promotion, featuring the following festive frozen yogurt flavors:

• Chocolate mint (new) made with York peppermint patties: It’s rich, creamy and tastes like York peppermint patties. Recommended toppings: Andes mints, mochi, almonds
• Dark chocolate cherry brownie made with real cherries: I tasted the cherry first, and liked how it made the chocolate flavor taste more interesting. Recommended toppings: almonds, brownies and Cool Whip
• Espresso brownie (new)
• Holiday eggnog

The first two flavors are available now. The next two will be released later this month on November 16. There’s a new limited edition holiday cup design. The blue cup says It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year on it. I wonder if they’ll have a holiday spoon again?

The holiday gift card promotion is back, too. Get a free bonus $5 gift card for every $25 in gift cards purchased.

P.S. Don’t forget that veterans get 6 oz of free froyo this Veterans Day at Menchie’s.

You know you love me. X0 X0, fro-yo girl.

Looking for more frozen yogurt news, discussion boards, and resources? Check out the International Frozen Yogurt Association website at http://internationalfrozenyogurt.com/. The IFYA is the independent voice of the frozen yogurt industry.

Yogurtland Made With Ghirardelli Chocolate Promotion

Fro-yo girl here. I saw the Yogurtland teaser post on October 30 that said “Save the date for November 14th. Something sweet and chocolaty is coming your way and trust us - you'll want to be there” and I marked my calendar.

However, the new Yogurtland Made with Ghirardelli Chocolate promotion starts today, November 1, with a new flavor, Frozen Hot Chocolate frozen yogurt. The next new flavor, Dark Chocolate Blueberry sorbet, launches on November 14.

Frozen Hot Chocolate frozen yogurt is described as “Inspired by Ghirardelli® flavors, and by warm memories of sipping hot chocolate as the seasons turn to cooler weather, this flavor will warm your heart while pleasing your palate with a cool treat! Real cocoa powder, a hint of cream, and marshmallow flavors combine to make this yogurt flavor taste of rich velvety milk chocolate with sweet and creamy marshmallows.” It was definitely rich and creamy, and even more chocolatey than their chocolate ice cream. Recommended toppings: whipped cream, almonds and a cherry on top

I also spotted a poster for the November 14th $5 Ultimate Creation event. On November 14, you can fill up a 16 oz ultimate creation cup for $5 between 4 PM – 9 PM.

You know you love me. X0 X0, fro-yo girl.

Looking for more frozen yogurt news, discussion boards, and resources? Check out the International Frozen Yogurt Association website at http://internationalfrozenyogurt.com/. The IFYA is the independent voice of the frozen yogurt industry.