New Yogurt Shop's Opening Just Weeks Away

A sweet new business is just weeks away from opening its doors.

Orange Leaf self-serve frozen yogurt is beginning construction inside the M.F. Charles building, and according to one of the business’ owners, opening day is likely just around the corner.

Jim Alex, who is spearheading the efforts along with business partner James Berberian, said Orange Leaf will open its Reading location likely in the first or second week of November.

“We are very happy to be a part of the revitalization of the Reading downtown area,” said Alex. “Everyone has been very supportive. The outreach from people we’ve worked with in the town and from the community looking forward to Orange Leaf finally opening has been impressive.”

Orange Leaf is a national chain of frozen yogurt shops that allow customers to dispense their own yogurt and add as many toppings as they desire. There are hundreds of Orange Leaf locations around the country, and the business has been rapidly expanding in recent months.

Alex joked that Orange Leaf likes to think of itself as “the Starbucks of frozen yogurt” in the sense that customers are invited to stay for the atmosphere in addition to the yogurt.

There will be tables inside and outside the store, fireplaces and free wireless Internet connection as well.

In a previous Patch article, Berberian said the new store will mean about 20 new employees hired from the local area. In addition, he said the company also works closely with the community, helping with fundraisers for athletic programs and other groups.

“I think it’s a place for everyone in the family to go,” said Alex. “We’re very community driven, and we’re excited to be here.”