Solomon Choi, who founded the New York City self-serve frozen-yogurt chain 16 Handles, died on June 7, 2024, at age 44. His cause of death was not publicly disclosed in the reports reviewed.
Who was Solomon Choi?
Choi was an entrepreneur best known for founding 16 Handles in 2008. The family-published obituary and Nation’s Restaurant News described the business as an early self-serve frozen-yogurt shop; that distinction is attributed to those sources rather than independently established here.
Born in Seoul, South Korea, on April 20, 1980, Choi attended Granada Hills High School and graduated from the University of Southern California Marshall School of Business in 2002, according to his family-published obituary.
What happened to 16 Handles?
Choi sold 16 Handles in 2022 to franchisee Neil Hershman and YouTube creator Danny Duncan, according to Nation’s Restaurant News. The outlet described the chain as having more than 40 units in its June 2024 report. Those are historical details and do not establish the company’s present ownership or current location count.
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Hershman, identified by the outlet as 16 Handles’ CEO, said the company was “deeply saddened by the unexpected passing” of its founder and former CEO. He also called Choi “a visionary” and credited him with opportunities, education, mentorship, and friendship.
Choi’s other business ventures
Choi founded Jabba Brands in 2019 and served as its CEO, the obituary says. Nation’s Restaurant News characterized Jabba Brands as an investment firm focused on restaurants, retail, and technology. Choi also founded and sold Greeno Products, a supplier of custom and off-the-shelf food-service disposables, according to the obituary and the outlet.
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When did Solomon Choi die, and how old was he?
Choi died on June 7, 2024, in Manhasset, New York, at age 44, according to the obituary. It names his wife, Hannah Chang-Choi, and their children among his survivors.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Was Solomon Choi’s cause of death announced?
No. E! News reported that his cause of death had not been shared. No cause should be inferred from the available reporting.
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