New York-based soft-serve franchise 16 Handles is preparing to make a debut in Southern California in 2026. While the company has not announced the exact addresses or storefronts, the expansion includes two new locations in Orange County, according to QSR Magazine.
New to the food and beverage industry, husband and wife duo Fadl Abdel Karim and Jamila Refky are the franchisees leading 16 Handles’ expansion into Orange County. Fadl brings a background in operations and management consulting, with expertise in process improvement and organizational strategy, while Jamila specializes in brand development, franchise growth, and community-focused engagement. The franchise also intends to expand to Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego.
The upcoming Orange County openings are expected to introduce local dessert lovers to the brand’s signature rotating flavors and inventive seasonal offerings, further strengthening Southern California’s thriving frozen dessert scene…