What made Solomon Choi's entrepreneurial journey so remarkable? The founder of 16 Handles, a frozen yogurt franchise that revolutionized the self-serve dessert industry, was not just an innovator but a visionary who transformed how people enjoyed their treats. His contributions to the food and beverage sector were unparalleled, and his legacy continues to inspire countless entrepreneurs worldwide.
Solomon Choi, a name synonymous with innovation in the food industry, left an indelible mark on the world of frozen yogurt. Born in South Korea, Choi immigrated to the United States, where he embarked on a journey that would redefine dessert culture. In 2008, at the age of 30, Choi founded 16 Handles, a concept that combined technology with indulgence, offering customers an interactive experience through self-serve frozen yogurt machines. This venture quickly gained traction, expanding across multiple states and becoming a household name in the frozen yogurt market. Despite selling the company in 2022, Choi's influence extended beyond 16 Handles as he continued to mentor and invest in startups through Jabba Brands, a venture capital firm he established to support emerging businesses in the food and wellness sectors.
| Bio Data & Personal Information | Career & Professional Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name: Solomon Choi | Company Founded: 16 Handles (2008) |
| Date of Birth: June 1978 | Role: Founder & CE-YO! (Chief Executive Yogurt Officer) |
| Place of Birth: South Korea | Notable Achievements: Revolutionized the frozen yogurt industry; expanded nationwide within years |
| Education: Not publicly disclosed | Other Ventures: Jabba Brands – Venture Capital Firm |
| Residence: New York City, USA | Legacy: Championed entrepreneurship and innovation in the food space |
| Family: Immigrated to the U.S. with family support | Reference: People Magazine Profile |
Choi's impact on the food industry went far beyond founding 16 Handles. As a seasoned investor and advisor, he dedicated significant resources to nurturing startups under Jabba Brands. His philosophy centered around fostering businesses that improve the way people eat, drink and live harmoniously. This commitment to sustainability and health-conscious living resonated deeply with consumers and entrepreneurs alike. Choi believed that supporting innovative companies could create a ripple effect, encouraging healthier lifestyles while driving economic growth.
In honor of National Frozen Yogurt Month, celebrated annually in June, 16 Handles paid tribute to its founder by highlighting his contributions to the brand's success. Under Choi's leadership, the company introduced groundbreaking initiatives such as free Fro-Yo days for rewards members and the launch of exotic flavors like matcha and taro. These efforts not only strengthened customer loyalty but also positioned 16 Handles as a leader in the frozen yogurt industry. Even after stepping away from day-to-day operations, Choi remained actively involved in promoting the brand's values and mission.
Tragically, Solomon Choi passed away in 2022 at the age of 44. News of his sudden death sent shockwaves through the business community, particularly among those who had benefited from his mentorship and guidance. Choi's passing marked the loss of a brilliant mind whose work had touched countless lives. Tribeca Citizen, one of many outlets covering his untimely demise, noted that Choi's entrepreneurial spirit lived on through the ventures he championed during his lifetime. Colleagues and friends remembered him as a passionate advocate for young entrepreneurs, always willing to share insights and offer encouragement.
As the largest franchisee took over the reins of 16 Handles following Choi's passing, the brand vowed to uphold the standards set by its late founder. The new ownership pledged to continue expanding the chain while staying true to its core principles: innovation, quality, and community engagement. For fans of 16 Handles, this promise ensured that Solomon Choi's vision would endure long into the future.
Choi's story serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative potential of entrepreneurship. From opening his first store with modest investments from family members to building a multimillion-dollar empire, his journey exemplifies determination and perseverance. Through platforms like Instagram, Choi shared glimpses of his professional life, connecting with followers who admired his achievements and sought inspiration from his experiences. One memorable post featured a photo of Choi alongside Franchize Guy, celebrating the early days of 16 Handles and reflecting on the challenges overcome along the way.
Today, Solomon Choi is remembered not only as the man behind 16 Handles but also as a trailblazer who inspired others to pursue their dreams fearlessly. His legacy lives on through the brands he created and the individuals he mentored, ensuring that his influence will continue shaping the food and beverage landscape for generations to come. As we celebrate National Frozen Yogurt Month and reflect on Choi's contributions, it becomes clear that his passion for innovation and commitment to excellence remain unmatched in the industry.
