Reading Orange Leaf Likely to Open in September

Looking for a new spot to grab dessert without leaving town? For Reading residents, the newest solution is “coming spoon.”

Orange Leaf frozen yogurt has a Reading store at 612 Main Street listed on its website as “Coming Spoon,” and franchisee James Berberian said the location will open likely around September.

The chain yogurt shop allows customers to serve their own yogurt and add toppings while paying by the ounce. It’s a growing trend nationwide, and Orange Leaf alone is in the midst of a massive expansion. The company already has 288 stores open with 119 still to come.

Berberian said Orange Leaf chose Reading over a year ago, but has to wait as the historic building it will move into is renovated. According to Berberian, in addition to Orange Leaf, an Irish Restaurant, bakery, and bank will be among the new additions to building.

“When the building gets done, it’ll revitalize the downtown,” said Berberian. “It’s really going to change the dynamic.”

According to Berberian, 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.

Orange Leaf faces stiff competition in all of its markets, with differently frozen yogurt shops sprouting up frequently. But Berberian said he believes his company has what it takes to have success despite its competitors, and he believes Reading will be no different.

“I think competitors have tried to mimick what we do, and that’s a warmth that you feel and an atmosphere that’s fun,” said Berberian. “We’ve opened locations, and each is doing fantastic. We seem to be able to outperform the competition wherever we end up.”