TCBY Returns to Its Arkansas Roots With a Vision for the Future

SALT LAKE CITY, UT--(Marketwire - Apr 11, 2011) - In 1981, TCBY founders Frank and Georgia Hickingbotham believed that an innovative, healthy new frozen yogurt product would succeed in a market full of fatty frozen treats. They opened their first store in Little Rock, Ark., and it became the birthplace of this iconic brand. Fast forward 30 years and consumers are still as loyal to The Country's Best Yogurt as they were during the brand's formation. In the midst of the company's 30^th anniversary celebration, TCBY announces the deserving recipients of "The Great TCBY Store Giveaway Contest," Jared and Sarah Greer, are continuing the Hickingbotham's legacy with the opening of their first store in the brands origin, Northwest Arkansas. TCBY believes the Greers represent the next 30 years of a new generation of frozen yogurt lovers, and will continue the healthy values brought to market by the Hickingbothams.

Jared and Sarah Greer were selected last year not only for their extensive business experience and strong community roots, but also for their passion for the brand, which was evident from their entry video all the way to the final interview process. Jared, originally from Little Rock, began his TCBY career in high school, where he worked behind the counter. Years later, his dream of owning his own TCBY location with his wife Sarah has come true.

"We have been patient and exhaustive in identifying the perfect location for our first TCBY," says Jared Greer, franchisee and winner of the Great TCBY Store Giveaway. "Growing this pioneering brand in the state where Frank and Georgia Hickingbotham founded TCBY adds a sentimental footnote that we take seriously."

The Greers officially opened their own TCBY in Rogers, Ark. this April. Embracing TCBY's new store self-serve prototype and store design, the Greers have introduced Arkansas to the concept's new vision; still the same great-tasting and healthy frozen yogurt product that consumers have loved for the past 30 years with a fresh, convenient and modern take.

"We knew when we chose the Greers, they would be thoughtful and earnest in their ownership of a TCBY," says Tim Casey, CEO of TCBY. "Returning to Northwest Arkansas on our 30^th anniversary is a significant milestone for the brand. We are pleased that they have chosen our self-serve model and that the timing worked out to showcase our new store design. The folks of Northwest Arkansas are in for a real treat."

Franchise Opportunities
With Jared and Sarah's dream realized, many other entrepreneurs are looking for a way to own their very own TCBY location across the country. TCBY's dedicated franchise development professionals provide support and information to those looking to start their own TCBY franchise in the city of their choosing. For more information on owning your own TCBY, visit www.tcbyfranchise.com.

About TCBY
Based in Salt Lake City, Utah, TCBY (The Country's Best Yogurt) has been a frozen yogurt innovator from the day its first shop opened in Little Rock, Arkansas in 1981.
Today, with more than 800 locations both in the United States and internationally, TCBY's "Best Tasting, Best For You™" yogurt still is the healthier alternative for consumers looking for a delicious treat or snack. To learn more check out www.TCBY.com.