The yogurt café's parent company, U-SWIRL International Inc., has signed an area development agreement with Las Vegas, NV-based AV LLC to own and operate the stores. AV LLC was formed by Maurice Vargas, D.D.S., owner of several dental clinics in Las Vegas, specifically to franchise U-SWIRL cafes in key markets in the southwestern U.S.

"As I was leaving my practice one night this past winter after working late to finish up some administrative duties, I was astounded by the number of people lined up outside a nearby U-SWIRL café," Vargas says, adding that he knew immediately that he needed to learn more about the franchise.

U-SWIRL offers as many as 20 non-fat flavors including tart, traditional and no sugar-added options and up to 70 toppings including seasonal fresh fruit, sauces, candy and granola. Guests serve themselves and pay by the ounce instead of by the cup size.