In a world where frozen yogurt shops are popping up like Starbucks, one business is working to set itself apart from the rest.
And it’s not just the suggestive title that makes Spoon Me frozen yogurt stand out.
“We’re not in it just for profit,” said Tony Crump, manager and co-owner of Spoon Me in Tempe.
Spoon Me emphasizes a healthy lifestyle, eco-friendly products and community involvement.
The store, part of a Utah-based company, is the first Spoon Me in Arizona, located in the Vista del Sol retail area. Since it opened last November, it has created a loyal following, Crump said.
At least 90 percent of Spoon Me customers are students, many of whom live on campus in the surrounding residence halls, he said.
Amanda Cohen, a mathematics freshman, said she likes Spoon Me’s location because she does not have a car and can walk there from her residence hall. Already up to three punches on her frequent customer card, Cohen also said she enjoys the product.
“I like that it’s healthy for you, and yet it still tastes really good,” she said.
Students can get their frozen yogurt fix up until midnight on weekdays and 1 a.m. on weekends.
Much of the shop’s business relies on word of mouth to bring in new customers.
Justice studies sophomore Danielle Petrillo was introduced to Spoon Me by a friend.
“I think it’s so cute,” Petrillo said. “And I like that it’s healthier.”
One of Spoon Me’s main goals is to serve a healthy product. Crump said that occasionally customers top their yogurt off with Oreos and chocolate, but most come in looking for a healthy treat.
“We have one of the healthiest yogurts out there,” Crump said.
The yogurt, which comes in natural, açai and green tea flavors, is all natural, fat-free and a low-calorie food.
Spoon Me also lists taking care of the environment as one of its goals. The shop’s spoons and cups are made from biodegradable cornstarch, and they sell apparel made from recycled materials, Crump said.
In addition, Spoon Me takes pride in its community involvement. Every month, the store donates its tips to a different charity, Crump said.
Employees not only give their tips to charity, but are also encouraged to get involved with the charity in a hands-on way. Spoon Me’s approach to community involvement is mirrored in its personal approach to customers. While many yogurt shops are self-serve, Spoon Me employees serve customers to encourage interaction, Crump said.
“Here you’re connecting with the customer,” Crump said from behind the counter. “We like to be involved with the customer.”
Reach the reporter at rudi.okeefezelman@asu.edu.
