Sassy Strawberry set to open this summer next to Jimmy John’s

Austin is getting with the self-service frozen yogurt trend.

Ashley Kuper and her husband, Reed Kuper, will open the Sassy Strawberry frozen yogurt shop at 803 18th Ave. NW, Suite No. 1 in the new strip on the north side of Double K Specialty Inc. Sassy Strawberry, which the Kupers hope to open by June 1, will join Jimmy John’s and one other business in the mini strip mall, as Double K and the Veterinary Medical Hospital move to the south portion of the 11,500-square foot building.

Sassy Strawberry will feature 18 different flavors — including sherbet and sugar free yogurt — and 80 toppings, from fruit and nuts to cereal and candy. Customers can mix and match the yogurt and toppings and pay by the ounce after they’ve made their creation.

“They can get as much yogurt and toppings as they want,” Ashley said.

The Kupers, who live south of Lyle in Iowa, hope it goes really well. It’s their first business venture.

“It’s a new trend,” Ashley said. “Austin is just a great size and location for it.”

Ashley said self-serve frozen yogurt appeals to children, high school and college students, and families.

“It’s a healthy alternative to ice cream,” she said. “It tastes the same, but it has way less calories.”

Sassy Strawberry will occupy 2,000-square feet and will seat about 40. It will also serve water, soda and coffee.

The Kupers plan to hire 12 to 15 employees to work mostly part-time.