New York born 16 Handles chain 16 Handles is circling the San Fernando Valley, with franchisee Rockwell Allen and partners signing a two unit deal that includes a planned Northridge shop. The move is part of an eight store California rollout announced late last month, and local operators say they are already hunting for locations. The hook for Valley customers will be the brand’s self serve format, with 16 rotating flavors and a sprawling toppings bar.
Deal details and local plans
According to PR Newswire, 16 Handles has inked franchise agreements for eight California stores, with operators slated for South Orange County, the San Fernando Valley (Northridge), North San Diego (Del Mar) and the Bay Area (Milpitas). The release notes that the San Fernando Valley deal, signed by Allen and a longtime friend and business partner, covers two units, with the first location planned for Northridge. Company leaders are pitching the rollout as a focused California entry backed by experienced local operators.
Local franchisee speaks
Allen told What Now Los Angeles that “the taste alone could have sold us, but what really sealed the deal is the brand itself,” adding that he and his team hope to open “as soon as possible” while they scout Northridge sites. The outlet reports that Allen comes from a tech and sales background and that the partners view 16 Handles as a community minded concept they can grow across the Valley once the first shop is up and running.
Brand growth and menu
Per the company announcement, 16 Handles first launched in Manhattan in 2008 and now lists roughly 40 locations around the country as it ramps up franchising in 2025 and 2026. The brand leans on monthly flavor drops and buzzy limited edition releases, a strategy that industry coverage says has helped fuel its recent momentum. QSR Magazine points out that new franchise activity and fresh flavors sit at the center of the expansion push. Local menus are expected to feature those rotating flavors alongside cakes, take home pints and DŌ edible cookie dough.
What to watch for
Neighbors eager to spot the first sign of a Northridge shop should keep an eye out for permit filings, help wanted ads and fresh storefront signage, the same early breadcrumbs used to track 16 Handles growth in other markets. In storms the Valley with triple shop plan coverage, those telltale permits and local reports typically show up before any official opening date. Once they appear, franchisees usually move quickly into hiring and marketing ahead of a grand opening.
There are still no firm opening dates. Company materials and local partners say the California shops are “in development.” For Valley residents, a Northridge 16 Handles would simply mean another quick service dessert stop in the neighborhood and easier access to the brand’s rotating flavors and monthly limited runs.
