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126 • FOODSERVICE EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES • MAY 2015 in 2008, we've evolved the business as the largest self-service franchise in the world," Kleinberger says. "We've been able to create an experience for guests, and that's what drives our business." FE&S; spoke with Kleinberger to learn more about Menchie's mission and the frozen yogurt segment. FE&S;: How has the frozen yogurt segment evolved in recent years? AK: The frozen yogurt industry is becoming smart- er and more sophisticated, just as the food industry is in general. It's difcult to see the changes unless we compare the market year after year, but it has been transforming by leaps and bounds. This is be- cause people have fgured out that what they eat refects how they feel, and this is driving the food industry today. Still, no one wants to give up taste for nutrition. The frozen yogurt segment is ahead of that trend and will continue to stay relevant. FE&S;: With the number of frozen yogurt brands in the market, it can be difcult to set a concept apart. What makes Menchie's unique? AK: We began formulating our own favors about fve years ago. This took a great deal of time, efort and resources. We also invested a signifcant amount of money into product development. The result is a greater variety of favors and a healthier product profle. Our frozen yogurt contains probiotics and added protein, is either no fat or low fat and low in carbohydrates. We also have varieties that are gluten free and sugar free and others with no artifcial favors or colors. We ofer a total of 14 favors at each site, not including sorbet. Our soft-serve machines are our bread and butter and the most expensive investment for our locations. Each store has a total of seven units that are designed exclusively for our franchises and can create custom changes to our product. FE&S;: Which favors sell best, and how have you diferentiated your oferings? AK: Our best-selling favors include classics like chocolate and vanilla and diferent favors like cookies and cream as well as our tart products. In developing new varieties, we've partnered with other brands, including Hersheys, Swiss Miss, Dole, Oreo and Mondelez. We recently announced a new strategic alliance with Reese's Peanut Butter Cup brand. FE&S;: What do you predict for the future of the frozen yogurt segment? AK: The foodservice climate is changing, and food and brands are now more about the experience. We fgured out the winning formula is multidimen- sional in terms of the guest experience. The leader in desserts will be self-serve frozen yogurt due to the healthier profle. It will become the new ice cream and continue gaining market share. FE&S; e&s; segment spotlight Established in 2007, Menchie's now has 500 stores in 35 states and 15 countries.