A US robotic frozen yogurt brand is launching in Australia with plans for 500 vending machines across the country in the next five years to bring in US$18 million in sales.
Generation NEXT Franchise Brands has signed its fourth international licensing agreement for Reis & Irvy’s, a concept launched in the US two years ago. Since then more than 235 franchisees have signed up to operate 1100 vending machines.
The high-tech robotic vending machines dispense servings of frozen yogurt, ice cream and sorbet – with toppings – in under 60 seconds.
Troy and Michelle Bingham are heading up the Reis & Irvy’s brand and expansion in Australia.
The couple has extensive experience in international business development and global management consulting across areas such as franchising, tourism, distribution channels, customer loyalty, payment and incentive programs.
Troy Bingham said “We were looking for a business that could generate annuity income, require minimal time and staff once set up, and was in a sector that we knew we could grow over the next 10 to 15 years.
“The patented robotics, seamless payment, marketing interactivity, and cloud-based reporting on the supply chain ticked all the boxes. More importantly, the energy, passion and support from the Generation NEXT team to grow a quality brand and product was very exciting to us. We see frozen yogurt as just the first of many other robotic and technology solutions to come.”
Aussie born Nick Yates, chairman for Generation NEXT Franchise Brands, is based at the head office in San Diego, California.
“Being an Australian native myself, I am familiar with the similarities between our market here in the U.S. and the market down under,” he said “The market in Australia loves frozen yogurt and has seen steady growth in consumption over the last five years. We believe our product will find a way to disrupt the retail sector and Troy and Michelle know exactly how to ensure that it happens, which will allow our emerging brand, Reis & Irvy’s, to continue its growth around the globe.”
Reis & Irvy’s has also teamed up with manufacturing and logistics partners, including Dannon YoCream, Stoelting Food Service which created the first soft-serve machine for US brand Dairy Queen, and Pitney Bowes which will provide the installation and national servicing.