A popular frozen dessert franchise is gearing up to make its South Carolina debut.
16 Handles recently announced plans to open its first locations in the state in Charleston and Columbia. The Columbia shop is currently under construction at 4840 Forest Dr, while the Charleston outlet will be part of the new Goddard Point Hope development at 650 Hopewell Dr, Suite 105.
“It will be an amazing corner space with tons of seating for the whole family,” said CEO Neil Hershman of the Charleston location. Local franchisee Jason Delevante—who lives right in the neighborhood—will oversee the shop.
Founded in 2008 as New York City’s first self-serve frozen dessert shop, 16 Handles was acquired by Hershman and his partner Danny Duncan in 2022. At the time, Hershman was already the brand’s largest franchisee.
Since the acquisition, the franchise has expanded to over 30 locations across five states and is now scaling internationally, with 150 new shops in the pipeline.
16 Handles is celebrated for its wide selection of frozen yogurt and soft-serve flavors—including vegan options—alongside offerings like ice cream, milkshakes, açaí bowls, real fruit smoothies, and other frozen treats.
The Charleston location is slated to open in the spring of 2025, with a target launch date set for late March.
