Azar to expand Tutti Frutti franchise

Marcella Scarlett, Business Reporter

Less than three months in business, Andrew Azar, operator of the Tutti Frutti franchise in Jamaica, says he already plans to increase the number of stores, but not until the first half of 2014.

The frozen yoghurt franchise, which is highly popular among the youthful crowd, operates from The Barbican Centre in Kingston.

Azar told Wednesday Business that it took almost a year to secure the franchise deal with Tutti Frutti's American owner, but did not disclose the terms. The trademark is registered to ILTF Inc, whereas Wellspring Industry Inc supplies distributors with yoghurt mixes and soft-serve machines, says the company's website.

Azar's shop offers a limited number of flavours in rotation, out of the more than 50 offerings the American company says it has on its flavour board.

Azar suggested that he wants to refine the service before adding the new outlets.

"We have the franchise for Tutti Frutti for Jamaica. We plan to expand soon," he said.

"You see, the first store was intended to be used as a test. We thought that it would have performed okay, but it is doing much better than that. We're going to be looking for parties to build out the franchise, but we have to iron out the kinks in service delivery in the first store before we can focus on expanding."

Portmore, Mobay Next

The next two stores are likely to be opened in Portmore and Montego Bay. Portmore is targeted because it is a dormitory community to capital Kingston and businesses of this kind could do very well there, Azar said.

Tutti Frutti is not the only place for yoghurt in Jamaica, but Azar says what distinguishes it is service delivery.

"Anybody can sell yoghurt with topping, but it becomes special when it is accompanied with world-class customer service. We have to make it an experience for everybody who comes through the doors," he said.

Only seven yoghurt flavours can be dispensed at the establishment at any one time, but Azar said he offers about 60 different flavours by rotation, plus the choice of a dozen fruity toppings.

"Every single combination is unique because you can mix whatever you want, however you want," he said.

The store is set up as a self-serve facility and customers are charged per ounce for their selections. The store is also outfitted with modern furniture, both on the inside as well as on the patio, and free Wi-fi.

Azar said mastering service delivery is his priority.

"I have seen so many companies expand and then they just don't do that well. We don't want that to happen to us at all, so we will make sure we get it right first before we expand," he said.

"We are hoping to make a little money, but we want the customer to be satisfied."

Azar was not willing to divulge the details of the arrangement with Tutti Frutti, saying it would be a breach of the agreement.

He said he went after the franchise following a visit to the United States, where he saw the concept in action. He was captivated, he said, because it facilitated, persons hanging out, having fun and it created a bonding experience for friends and family.

Tutti Frutti operates in 24 countries, according to its website. Jamaica makes the 25th.

Andrew Azar is a director at fabric giant LP Azar and security company King Alarm.

The LP Azar group is currently expanding through acquisition. Its most recent purchases include CD Alexander Realty and Somerset Falls in Portland, and Pablo's fabric house.

LP Azar, when it was started by Andrew's grandfather in the 1960s as a wholesale fabric company, then employed only 10 persons; whereas today, said Andrew, the group employs more than 1,000 persons.

Tutti Frutti Jamaica falls under the LP Azar group, Andrew said.

marcella.scarlett@gleanerjm.com