Fro-yo girl here. Well, the stay at home order hasn’t been lifted yet in Los Angeles. I did just go to Yogurtland and Menchie’s, because froyo is essential. I hadn’t been to either for a few weeks and it was interesting to see that it’s no longer self-serve. The associate fills the cup with froyo and adds toppings for you. It worked well since I knew how many ounces I wanted but I did get more toppings than usual. Their scoops seem bigger than my scoops.
Yogurtland San Gabriel added plastic wrap that covers all the toppings from the side facing the dining area and installed a Plexiguard shield by the register. Oh, and they only had 10 flavors of froyo vs. the usual 16. Menchie’s Valley Village didn’t have all that but most of their toppings are always covered (they use plastic stackable containers for the dry toppings). They put chairs in front of the self-serve area to keep the public out and also marked where customers should stand to keep people 6 feet apart.
The last time I went to Yogurtland on March 19, I was still able to serve myself but they provided gloves for everyone. In early March, the experience was completely normal. It could be months before self-service returns???
What else has changed? I’ve been sharing examples of froyo shops that are showing their support through froyo donations and discounts for first responders and healthcare workers and those that are asking for help on GoFundMe and Indiegogo. Events and new promotions have been delayed since many froyo shops are closed. Most of the ones that are still open have reduced their hours and switched to full service, takeout and delivery only. I've seen delivery discounts and froyo family packs. Some shops have reopened but with added safety procedures in place. Restaurant employees now wear masks and gloves in California.
I like how TCBY, Menchie’s, Yogurtland, sweetFrog and others are providing free activities (coloring sheets, mazes) and Zoom backgrounds that remind people of froyo and how much they love froyo. Yogurtland even has a contest, #froyoflashback, where people share their fond memories of Yogurtland for a chance to win Yogurtland gift cards.
I know that I love froyo as much as ever and I’d like to think that absence will make the heart fonder for most froyo consumers.
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.
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