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11 23 09 | Pinkberry adds chocolate & tweaks toppings policy

As the frozen yogurt fad appears to implode in Orange County, industry leader Pinkberry continues to adapt to keep froyo fans happy.

On Friday, the 77-unit chain will embark on a major strategy change when it introduces its first traditional “ice cream” flavor: chocolate. The more indulgent froyo flavor will join Pinkberrys better known tart and green tea flavors on the menu.

I have to wonder: Has Pinkberry caved, joining the ranks of Yogurtland and Cherry on Top — whose self-serve machines pour loads more ice cream-flavored froyo?

Pinkberry Chief executive Ron Graves said the new flavor was created to meet consumer demand — but it remains a very healthy product.

“It’s difficult to make a great chocolate frozen yogurt without compromising taste or quality,” Graves said. “Some taste good, but they are unhealthy and/or are heavy. Some are healthier, but aren’t appealing.”

Graves addressed the chocolate experiment, and other menu changes at Pinkberry in a recent interview. Here’s what he had to say:

The Chocolate Experiment

After working on the formula for more than a year, Graves said Pinkberry’s new flavor should wow fans with its “rich yet light and delicate” taste.

“It’s the perfect combination of high quality, dark chocolate and a low fat, healthier treat - one you crave and can feel good about eating,” he said.

Chocolate will replace Passionfruit on the menu come Friday, Nov. 27.

Endless toppings, sort of

Another menu shift for Pinkberry came last month when the chain changed its toppings policy.

In the past, customers were limited to the amount of toppings they could put on certain froyo sizes.

In October, Pinkberry revamped its menu so that customers can top swirls with as many toppings as will “comfortably fill” a cup. Prices have not changed.

For example, I recently got a medium Passionfruit for $5.95 with about five fruit toppings. (That same size & flavor used to be limited to 3 toppings.)

Once again, consumer demand dictated the menu change, Graves said.

“We have so many new, exciting and high quality toppings that represent thousands of combinations and we want our customers to be able to experience as much as they desire – all for the same price,” he said.

Fading froyo fad

Isn’t the froyo market over saturated?

“No,” Graves said.

Well, then why are shops closing?

Graves agreed that many “shops” have flooded the Southern California market since Pinkberry first opened in 2005. “You are already seeing fall out by those that did not invest in the proper infrastructure to grow or make short term decisions around quality of product, service or real estate.”

So, there’s room to grow for smart brands like Pinkberry?

“No question,” Graves said. “It is a huge market and Pinkberry has barely scratched the surface.”

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11 09 09 | Pinkberry Announces Aggressive U.S. & International Expansion: Frozen Yogurt Leader Expands Brand with Experienced Area Developer Partners

"We receive an overwhelming interest from the franchise community and evaluate every potential partner against a strict set of criteria to determine if they will be a fit with our growth strategy and our brand," states Ron Graves, Pinkberry CEO. "This is a very exciting time for the company, and we look forward to working with our new partners to deliver the one-of-a-kind Pinkberry experience in these new markets."

In addition to current strongholds in California and New York, Pinkberry has signed agreements with highly qualified, experienced franchisees to expand into several key domestic and international markets including: Boston, Washington D.C., Atlanta, Orlando, Miami, Colorado, New Orleans, and Mexico.

About Pinkberry

Pinkberry is home to Swirly Goodness - the premium frozen yogurt that reinvented the U.S. frozen yogurt category in West Hollywood, Calif., in January 2005. Inspired by European gelaterias and yogurterias and America's ice cream pastime, Pinkberry provides a social experience that indulges the senses. Part of a healthier snacking routine, Pinkberry's distinctive flavors are expertly crafted to complement its high quality, daily fresh-cut fruit and dry toppings and offer an irresistibly tangy, incomparably refreshing taste and so light it leaves you craving more. Pinkberry is certified by the National Yogurt Association and carries the Live & Active Cultures Seal. Get your taste of Swirly Goodness by visiting www.pinkberry.com.

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10 16 09 | National Boss Day

Today is National Boss' Day and to celebrate at the office, you can throw your boss a Pinkberry party.

Pinkberry's frozen yogurt flavors include: Original, Pomegranate, Passionfruit and Coconut, as well as a variety of toppings such as daily cut fresh fruit and numerous dry and liquid toppings to choose from, everyone can be sure to create something they enjoy.

The service delivers Pinkberry’s signature frozen yogurt and toppings for free by bicycle or foot to businesses located within the delivery radius of each store, with an order of $10 or more. Accepting cash or credit card, Pinkberry fans can indulge in their favorite frozen snack simply by placing a phone call to the participating store and have it delivered to their office.

For more info, log onto pinkberry.com.

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08 26 09 | Chains Gone Right

It's easy to bash restaurant chains when they make a blunder, but what about the rare instance when they get things right? This just-released free Chipotle iPhone app seems pretty handy, providing directions to the nearest Chipotle and also letting users peruse the menu and place customized orders. Download it here.

Another chain earning a gold star is Pinkberry, who've rolled out a new fruit parfait that, for roughly the price of a small with two toppings, lets you indulge in two scoops of yogurt with granola, blueberries, strawberries and pineapple layered in between. Prices vary by location; find your nearest Pinkberry here.

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