MilkShake Factory is getting ready to mix it up at three new shops in New Jersey.
The premium dessert chain debuted last fall in Jersey City. It now expects to add locations in Middletown, Florham Park and Somerville.
MilkShake Factory launched in 1914 as a family-run soda fountain and chocolate shop in Pittsburgh. It has since evolved into a chain with more than 35 units nationwide.
The fourth-generation-owned brand’s menu features an assortment of indulgent milkshakes, like chocolate dipped strawberry and campfire s’mores, as well as handcrafted sundaes, molten chocolate cups and house-made chocolate treats.
MilkShake Factory kicked off a franchise program in 2023. It now has more than 100 locations in development.
New Jersey is among the new markets targeted as part of a broader expansion strategy.
“New Jersey is such a vibrant, diverse state, and we’re excited to introduce our signature shakes and chocolates here,” MilkShake Factory CEO Dana Edwards Manatos recently said.
Family fun in Florham Park
According to MilkShake Factory, Florham Park will celebrate its grand opening March 21. The location will offer buy one, get one free shakes; sundaes and cups; free t-shirts for the first 100 guests and giveaways. Festivities at the Florham Village Shopping Center store will run from noon to 4 p.m.
Julie Hagovsky owns and operates the soon-to-open shop. In addition to Florham Park, she plans to develop two additional stores with the chain.
Commenting on the opening, Hagovsky said, “I was immediately drawn to MilkShake Factory because of its family roots and the sense of tradition behind the brand. That legacy really resonated with me. Family is at the center of everything I do, and bringing a concept like this to Florham Park and the surrounding communities feels especially meaningful.”
She went on to say, “We were also really impressed by the products themselves. As a family that loves dessert, we immediately recognized the quality and care behind everything MilkShake Factory offers.”
“There really hasn’t been a dedicated dessert destination like this in Florham Park for a long time. We’re excited to create a modern, clean and welcoming space that reflects the community’s family-oriented spirit and gives people a place to stop in, enjoy something sweet and spend time together,” Hagovsky said.
A spokesperson for MilkShake Factory did not immediately respond to a request for more information on when the Somerville and Middletown locations will launch.
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