INLSA
Schoolboys tuck in at Wakaberry in Durbans Florida Road.
Froyo is a term not many understood until they walked into Wakaberry in Florida Road in Morningside, Durban.
But what was once a small frozen yoghurt store in one of the city’s most buzzing streets has now set its sights on expanding and taking the Froyo concept national.
Froyo has become very popular in the US and UK and after experiencing this, Ken and Michelle Fourie along with David Clark, founded the first Wakaberry store in Florida Road in May last year.
“The concept of the store is the first of its kind in the country. It is the first self-service soft-serve shop, with a weigh-and-pay facility,” said Luise Peters, Wakaberry’s brand manager.
“Customers come in and choose their favourite flavour of frozen yogurt, sprinkle toppings on it and pay for it according to weight.”
He said the Froyo concept had been received well by the public and the one-of-a-kind experience grabbed the consumer’s attention.
“Whether it’s the store’s loyal patrons or first-time customers, the idea of self-service has received a good reception from the public. Wakaberry has become a hit among children, with the store bustling after school. However, we are aimed at all ages, races and sexes with the promotion of an experience.”
After experiencing an influx of customers from other parts of Durban owing to the popularity of the Florida Road store, another Wakaberry franchise was opened in October in Durban North.
“The stores are located in prime spots with high-foot traffic, which has contributed well to its popularity. The store hours also offer a convenience for patrons, operating on flexible hours and only closing when the store is empty.
“Another store has already been constructed and is almost ready for its launch in Stellenbosch later this year,” Peters said.
“It was one of the first franchise applications that was received by Wakaberry and it was decided it would be a good business decision to open up a store there. The location is close enough for students from Stellenbosch University to walk over and residents of the area to have access,” he said.
Aside from the Stellenbosch franchise, the small frozen yoghurt retailer with headquarters in Florida Road, has received more than 250 applications for stores to be opened in the country.
“Customers are coming to the stores from all over the country. Many of them say they wished they had a Wakaberry closer to their homes,” Peters said.
The Wakaberry company is hoping to open up at least 20 franchises around the country from the 250 applications it has received.
