The History Of Golden Spoon

Founded in 1983 in Southern California by Jeff Barnes, Golden Spoon Frozen Yogurt grew from a Tustin health food store into a premium "ice cream lover's" yogurt chain known for its creamy texture and 80+ proprietary flavors. Originally known as "Yogurt and Things" in 1981, the brand shifted focus to high-quality, non-fat yogurt and expanded across the Western US and internationally.

• 1981: The Origin: Jeff Barnes acquired "Yogurt and Things" in Tustin, California, which served as the predecessor to Golden Spoon.

• 1983: Brand Birth: The official Golden Spoon brand was launched, focusing on a healthier alternative to ice cream.

• 1986: Manufacturing Growth: The company began manufacturing its own top-selling flavors, allowing for customized flavor profiles.

• 2000s Expansion: By 2008, the chain grew to over 80 flavors, including unique options like Pumpkin Pie and Peanut Butter, expanding into Nevada, Arizona, Japan, and the Philippines.

• Recent Evolution: The company, based in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA, has modernized with "Weightless Pricing" to eliminate the "weigh and pay" model and has updated locations with a California Beach Cottage design.

What Makes Golden Spoon Unique

• Flavor/Texture: Often described as the "ice cream lover's yogurt," Golden Spoon focuses on a creamy, dense texture rather than the airy, tart yogurt that became popular later.

• No Powders: The company is known for not using powdered mixes for their yogurt base.

• Service: While many competitors moved to self-service, Golden Spoon is recognized for employee-served, premium service, frequently offering their signature golden plastic spoon.

Today, the chain continues to be a staple in the southwestern US, providing low-fat and non-fat, high-calcium, and probiotic-packed yogurt