TWENTY MONTHS, ZERO GOODBYES!

This is a Quiet Milestone That Means the World to Us

In the world of hospitality, high staff turnover is often seen as the cost of doing business. It's not unusual for cafés and restaurants to cycle through their entire team within a year. In fact, according to industry data, the average tenure of a hospitality worker in Australia is less than 12 months—with many businesses seeing turnover every 3 to 6 months.

We appreciate you!

That’s why reflecting on this moment means so much to us:

We went 20 months without a single team member leaving Drizzl’d!!

No goodbyes. No "I’m handing in my notice" conversations. Just consistency, trust, and loyalty.

And while it might seem like just another number, for us, it's a quiet yet powerful milestone. It tells a deeper story about what we’ve built—not just as a brand, but as a workplace and a culture.

This isn’t something we ever set out to shout about. We didn’t chase retention for bragging rights. We simply built the kind of place we’d want to work in—and hoped that others would feel the same. That 20 months of zero turnover happened at all is a testament to the people behind the counter and what we’ve worked so hard to protect.

So what made the difference?

We’re not perfect. We’ve had our challenges. We’re still learning every day. But here’s what we believe helped us get here:

1. We respect our people as people.

That means more than just fair rosters and timely pay (which should be the bare minimum). It means checking in on tough days, celebrating wins big and small, and knowing our team beyond the apron. We try to create a space where people feel seen.

2. We value consistency over chaos.

Hospitality is chaotic by nature, but the best teams thrive with structure. We’ve worked hard to offer clarity—stable rosters, defined roles, open communication—because when people know what to expect, they can do their best work.

3. We empower, not micromanage.

Many leave hospitality jobs because they feel overlooked or underappreciated. At Drizzl’d, we actively involve our team in decision-making—from menu tweaks to daily operations. That sense of ownership fosters pride, confidence, and accountability.

4. We build culture through connection.

We don't just focus on KPIs or customer flow—we focus on people. We laugh during service. We talk about what’s happening in each other’s lives. That camaraderie matters. It's what turns a job into a team—and a team into something people don’t want to walk away from.

5. We never forget that without them, there is no us.

Behind every late-night waffle, every perfectly timed drizzle, and every warm greeting is a person who showed up and gave their all. Our team isn’t just part of the business—they are the business. And we remind them of that, often.

In an industry where staff shortages are now the norm and burnout is at an all-time high, this milestone stands as quiet proof that there is another way. That it’s possible to run a hospitality venue where people want to stay—not just because of the job, but because of how they’re treated while doing it.

Yes, after those 20 months, one of our team members has since moved on to pursue a new opportunity—and we celebrated that departure with genuine pride and gratitude. Because building a business that people stay in is important. But building one they grow from is just as powerful.

To our current team—thank you for sticking by us. For showing up with heart, humour, and hustle.
To our past team — thank you for your commitment and hard work. We hope you’ve moved onto something greater!
To our community—thank you for supporting us in a way that lets us support our team.
To those wondering what makes Drizzl’d different—it’s this.

Here’s to the next 20 months, and to everything we’re building together.

‘Yeah, you deserve it’. And honestly? So do they.

SWEET DRIZZL’D CONFESSIONS (PT 2)

What happens over dessert... doesn’t always stay over dessert.

After the overwhelming response to Part 1 of Sweet Drizzl’d Confessions, we knew we had to bring you more. We were genuinely blown away by how many of you read, shared, and resonated with the stories—and even more touched by those who reached out to share your own.

To every customer who opened up about a vulnerable moment, a funny mishap, or an unforgettable night shared over churros and waffles—thank you. We’re honoured to be part of these moments, and even more so to be trusted with your stories.

The Sweetest Confessions…

So, back by popular demand, here are eight more confessions, straight from the hearts (and mouths) of our Drizzl’d community. From unexpected goodbyes to sweet new beginnings, these are the stories that happen after dark—between bites, between people, and between memories made under warm lighting and powdered sugar.

1. The Double Life Reveal

"He told me he was working late again. I decided to surprise him with takeaway Drizzl’d. Walked in… and there he was. But not alone. Sitting at our usual table—with someone else."
– Anonymous, 32

She left the churros untouched. We packed her a warm box to go.

2. The Churro Ultimatum

"My partner gave me an ultimatum: him or the food business I wanted to start. I told him I’d think about it. We came to Drizzl’d that night, ordered the ‘Just Ballin’ hot-doughnut balls, and halfway through I looked at him and said, ‘I choose me.’"
– Eliza, 29

We silently cheered her as she walked out beaming.

3. Friends With Benefits… or More?

"We came here just as friends. That’s what we kept saying. But when he reached for the same piece of churro as I did, our hands touched—and neither of us pulled away. The silence said it all."
– Ben, 27

They now call Drizzl’d “our spot.”

4. The Ghoster Returns

"He ghosted me after three dates. Two months later, I saw him at Drizzl’d… with his new girl. The best part? He saw me, panicked, and dropped his hot ball doughnut on the floor."
– Jess, 25

Sweet, sweet karma (Drizzl’d with chocolate on top).

5. A Secret Goodbye

"We were moving back to Europe and didn’t tell anyone. We came to Drizzl’d the night before we flew out as it’s within walking distance for us—one last tray of churros. We sat for hours, just taking it in."
– Marco & Elena, 34 & 31

They told us we were the first place that ever felt like home in Melbourne.

6. The Rebound Realisation

"I brought a date here to distract myself after a messy breakup. But halfway through the dessert, I realised I didn’t want to be with anyone. I was chasing company when I really needed closure."
– Amira, 30

She came back the next week—solo—and said, “This time, it’s just me and the churros.”

7. A Sweet Start After Rock Bottom

"I was in a really dark place. I walked in randomly one night, sat alone, and ordered something sweet just to feel something. One of your staff smiled and said, ‘Rough night?’ That kindness… it hit different."
– Tom, 35

He left a note that simply said: “This place saved me.”

8. Sister, Interrupted

"My sister and I had a huge falling out. We hadn’t spoken in months. She texted me: ‘Meet me at Drizzl’d?’ I didn’t reply. But I showed up. She was already waiting with our usual order."
– Kira, 22

No words were needed. Just warm churros and quiet understanding.

These stories remind us that Drizzl’d is more than just a dessert bar—it’s a backdrop to real life, real emotion, and real connection. Every plate served has the potential to hold not just dessert, but meaning.

Do you have a confession to make?

We want to hear it. Send your story to hello@drizzld.com.au with the subject line “Drizzl’d Stories” and you could be featured in our next post.

No names needed. Just honesty—and maybe a little chocolate drizzle.

TAKE THE ULTIMATE SWEET DRIZZL’D QUIZ

In the world of dessert lovers, there are two types of people: those who crave the crispy, golden crunch of a fresh churro… and those who can’t resist biting into a warm, fluffy hot ball doughnut bursting with flavour. At Drizzl’d, we serve both. But the real question is—which one is your ultimate dessert match?

Whether you're searching for “desserts near me”, “best churros in Melbourne”, or “late-night doughnuts in Moonee Ponds”, we’ve got you covered with the most indulgent showdown on the sweet street. But first—let’s see where you stand.

Come to Drizzl’d to taste both and see which one wins your heart!

Take the Sweet Showdown Quiz:

1. What’s your vibe after dinner?
A) Light, crispy, and just a touch of sweetness
B) Warm, doughy, and completely indulgent

2. What sauce are you dipping in?
A) Rich chocolate, always.
B) Caramel, Nutella, maybe both… get it Drizzl’d on everything!

3. What’s your perfect dessert mood?
A) Catching up with friends, café-style
B) In your feelings, needing comfort (and sugar)

4. Pick your dessert soundtrack:
A) Something upbeat, like a weekend road trip playlist
B) R&B classics or chill acoustic vibes

Mostly A’s? You’re a Churro Champion. You like your desserts crisp, sharable, and full of good vibes. Drizzl’d’s churros with house-made chocolate dip are calling your name.

Mostly B’s? You’re a Hot Ball Hero. You go deep with your dessert game—soft, warm, full-flavour indulgence. Our signature hot ball doughnuts, made fresh and topped with your choice of drizzles and toppings, were made for you.

But hey—who says you have to choose?

The Real Winner? You.

At Drizzl’d, you can taste both. Whether you’re team crunch or team melt-in-your-mouth, our menu is stacked with flavour combos to match your dessert mood. And the best part? We’re open late 7 days a week, so your cravings never have to wait.

📍 Visit us in Moonee Ponds
🍩 Tag your dessert tribe
📸 Snap your showdown moment and tag on @drizzld_au

Because whatever your sweet side is… “Yeah, You Deserve It!”

HOW DO YOU KNOW THEY ARE “THE ONE”?

Buying a franchise can be one of the most rewarding paths into business ownership—but it’s not a decision to rush. With so many franchise options available in Australia, how do you know which one is the right fit for you? It’s not just about choosing a business that’s profitable—it’s about choosing one that aligns with your lifestyle, goals, and values. Here's how to make that choice with confidence.

Start With Your “Why”

Before looking at any specific franchise, ask yourself why you want to become a franchisee. Are you looking to replace a job with something more fulfilling? Do you want to build long-term wealth? Are you chasing flexibility or a lifestyle shift? The clearer you are on your goals, the easier it is to filter out opportunities that don’t suit your needs.

Understand the Commitment

Franchise ownership isn’t always a set-and-forget business. Some models are hands-on, requiring you to be there day-to-day, while others (like Drizzl’d) are built to operate efficiently without the owner being in-store full-time. Understanding how involved you want or need to be will help you narrow down the right model.

Assess the Brand & Business Model

Not all franchises are created equal. Ask yourself:

• How long has the brand been operating for?

• Is the business model proven and tested in different conditions?

• Does it have a strong brand presence or loyal customer base?

At Drizzl’d, for example, we spent years refining our systems, branding, and operations before offering franchises. Our model has been tested through real-world challenges, including economic downturns—so franchisees can invest with confidence.

Consider the Support & Training

One of the biggest advantages of franchising is having a team behind you. Look for a franchise that offers comprehensive training, onboarding, and ongoing support. You don’t want to feel alone once your store opens. We believe in full support at Drizzl’d—before, during, and long after launch day.

Look at Costs (But Don’t Just Choose the Cheapest)

It’s important to understand what your total investment will be—from franchise fees and fit-out to training and ongoing royalties. Be wary of franchises that don’t clearly explain their costs. Transparency is key. At Drizzl’d, we walk all prospective franchisees through every cost line-by-line, so there are no surprises.

Trust Your Gut

Lastly, trust your instincts. If a brand excites you, aligns with your goals, and offers genuine support, it could be the right fit.

If you’re looking for a franchise that offers flexibility, support, strong systems, and a brand customers already love—Drizzl’d may be the perfect match. Submit your interest today by clicking here and let’s chat about bringing a little more sweetness into your business journey.

MELBOURNE NIGHT OWLS LOVE DESSERT

There’s something special about Melbourne after dark. When the city’s daytime bustle winds down, a different energy takes over—an energy filled with late-night diners, lively conversations, and a growing love for one particular thing: dessert. Melbourne’s night owls aren’t just looking for another drink or a fast-food fix; they’re craving something sweeter.

Open till late, 7 days a week!

Traditionally, Melbourne’s dining scene quietened after 10 PM. If you were hungry late at night, your options were usually limited to kebabs, burgers, or a quick takeaway. But that’s changing. Just like the buzzing late-night food cultures of Tokyo, New York, and Singapore, Melbourne is now embracing the idea that dessert isn’t just for after dinner—it’s an experience all on its own, no matter the hour.

Today, more locals are searching for “desserts near me,” “late-night desserts in Melbourne,” and “restaurants open now” as part of their evening plans. Whether it's a spontaneous treat after a show, a sweet finish to a night out, or just a craving that hits well after most places have closed, Melburnians want more than just fast food—they want quality, creativity, and a memorable experience.

At Drizzl’d, we’re proud to be part of this growing movement. Located in Moonee Ponds, Drizzl’d stays open late to serve those who know that a warm plate of churros, a loaded waffle, or a scoop of indulgent dessert can be the highlight of their night. Our menu isn’t just about satisfying a craving—it’s about creating an atmosphere where people can connect, unwind, and enjoy the sweeter side of Melbourne after dark.

Late-night desserts aren’t just about food; they’re about the vibe. It's that relaxed, no-rush feeling you get when you’re sitting with friends, sharing laughs over a plate of doughnut balls, or sneaking in a solo dessert session to end the day on a high. As Melbourne continues to grow into a true late-night city, dessert spots like Drizzl’d are helping shape a new kind of nightlife—one that’s warm, welcoming, and absolutely delicious.

Next time you’re searching for “late-night desserts in Melbourne” or planning a night out, remember: the city’s sweetest experiences don’t have to end with dinner. Come visit Drizzl’d and discover why Melbourne’s night owls are making dessert the star of the evening.

SWEET DRIZZL’D CONFESSIONS (PT 1)

We’ve always believed that dessert is more than just a treat—it’s a moment. And at Drizzl’d, we’ve been honoured to witness countless moments that are funny, heartwarming, and sometimes, deeply emotional. Over time, some of our regulars and first-time visitors have shared their stories with us—conversations that happened over hot ball doughnuts or quiet moments between bites of churros. With their permission, here are eight unforgettable stories shared directly with us by the people who lived them.

Confessions over desserts!

1. James & Sarah – The Churro Confession
"I’d been best friends with Sarah since uni. We did everything together—but I was always too scared to tell her how I really felt. One night we came into Drizzl’d just like we always did, ordered churros and gelato. I don’t know what came over me, but I just blurted it out: ‘I think I’m in love with you.’ She didn’t say anything at first. She just dipped another churro, smiled and said, ‘Took you long enough.’”
– James, 31

They still come in every month, sitting at the same table near the window, ordering the same churros - “Lovers or Friends”.

2. Mark – A Birthday Without Her
"It was Lisa’s birthday. We divorced last year for reasons out of my control, and we always came to Drizzl’d on her birthday for doughnuts since it opened. I walked in and asked if you still had the “Hazel” which she loved. I sat by the window where we always did, took a bite and just whispered, ‘Happy birthday, love.’ I didn’t want anyone to talk—I just wanted to be where we used to be."
– Mark, 58

We didn’t ask questions. We just made sure the plate was perfect.

3. Daniel – The Letter and the Nacho Gelato
"We’d been rocky for a while, but that night we laughed like things were fine. She asked for loaded Nacho Gelatos, our favourite. But when the bill came, she slid me a letter and said, ‘Read it after I leave.’ She walked out and I opened it. It was a goodbye. I haven’t stopped thinking about that moment. I came back a week later with my brother—just needed something familiar."
– Daniel, 27

He said the sweetness helped soften the bitter.

4. Lucy & Talia – A Sweet Start to Parenthood
"We’d just become foster parents. It was overwhelming, emotional, and beautiful. We needed to go somewhere that felt safe, warm. We told little Noah this would be our celebration spot. It was the first place we brought him outside our home. He had chocolate all over his face and was laughing the whole time."
– Talia, 34

We added an extra scoop of gelato too their order—no charge, just love.

5. Layla – A First Date That Wasn’t Meant to Be
"I met him through a friend and we decided to grab dessert at Drizzl’d for our first date. He was charming, polite—but I could tell his heart wasn’t in it. Halfway through sharing churros, he told me, ‘I still love my ex. I thought I was ready to move on, but I’m not.’ I appreciated the honesty, even if it stung. We finished our dessert in silence, then hugged goodbye. I haven’t seen him since."
– Layla, 28

She came back a week later—with her best friend—and said, “This time, I’m just here for the churros.”

6. Mia – The Last Conversation
"My dad and I hadn’t spoken in almost five years. One night he showed up at Drizzl’d, out of nowhere, and just asked if I wanted to talk. We ordered doughnut balls and sat there for two hours, barely touching the food. It wasn’t perfect, but it was a start. I haven’t heard from him since.That night was the last real conversation we had."
– Mia, 24

Some desserts you never forget. Some conversations, even more so.

7. Ash – The Solo Goodbye
"I was supposed to be moving interstate for work. I didn’t throw a party or anything—I just came to Drizzl’d alone, ordered the ‘All Good’ as a way of telling myself, it’s going to be okay. I sat there, people watching and observing the foot traffic. It was my way of saying goodbye to Moonee Ponds. Funny thing is, halfway through dessert, I changed my mind. I realised I wasn’t ready to leave yet."
– Ash, 30

Ash still lives in Melbourne. Still comes in every few weeks.

8. Nina & Ellie – From Enemies to Midnight Regulars
"Ellie and I were high school rivals. Years later, we randomly ran into each other outside Drizzl’d around 10 PM. We laughed, decided to grab a table, and ended up chatting for hours. Now we have a little tradition—whenever life gets hectic, we meet here for late-night churros. It’s weird how a dessert can break years of tension."
– Nina, 26

Sometimes all it takes is dessert and an open mind.

We’re so grateful for every moment you’ve shared with us—joyful, heartbreaking, hopeful, and everything in between. It’s proof that dessert is never just about sugar; it’s about connection, emotion, and real-life stories told between bites.

Do you have a confession, story, or memory made at Drizzl’d?

We’d love to hear it. Send it to hello@drizzld.com.au with the subject line: Drizzl’d Stories, and we may feature it in a future blog. Because the sweetest stories are the ones we share.

Don’t worry, your secret is safe with us! We keep all stories anonymous! All names have been changed to respect the privacy of our customers!

DESSERT TOURISM

When most people think of travel, they imagine sightseeing, shopping, or exploring famous landmarks. But there’s a growing movement of people who travel for something far more delicious—desserts. All around the world, food lovers are carving out time during their trips to hunt down iconic dessert spots. Here at Drizzl’d, we’re incredibly humbled and grateful to say that we’ve become one of those destinations for many.

The sweetest trip

Every week, we meet guests who have discovered us through a simple online search like "desserts near me," "late-night desserts Melbourne," or "best dessert cafes open now." Some are visitors from interstate, others are international travellers looking to experience Melbourne’s sweeter side. And just as often, we see locals making the trek—from the other side of the city—driving 30, 40, sometimes even 50 minutes, just to sit in our humble Moonee Ponds store and indulge in a plate of churros, hot ball doughnuts, or a perfectly loaded waffle.

It’s something we never take lightly. The fact that someone would spend part of their night, or even plan a special trip, just to visit us is truly moving. It’s not just about the dessert itself—it’s about the feeling. It’s the quiet excitement of hopping in the car for a late-night adventure. It’s the laughter along the drive, the buzzing anticipation of that first sweet bite after a long day. It’s arriving at a warm, welcoming place that feels like a reward for making the journey.

There’s a special kind of satisfaction that comes with travelling for food. It’s the satisfaction of knowing you earned it. Every kilometre travelled somehow makes that first mouthful of a warm, gooey churro or that spoonful of melting ice cream on a waffle taste even sweeter. It’s an experience that lingers long after the plate is empty—a memory made from a simple decision to chase a craving and turn it into a moment.

We feel genuinely honoured to be a small part of these memories. Every person who chooses to travel to Drizzl’d brings a bit of their story with them, and leaves with a piece of ours. Whether you’re visiting from far away or just discovering us from across town, we see you, we appreciate you, and we are so grateful for you.

So if you’re ever looking up "desserts near me," "restaurants near me," or "late-night desserts Melbourne," know that there’s a little store in Moonee Ponds waiting for you with warm treats, good vibes, and an even bigger smile. Because sometimes, the sweetest part of dessert isn’t just the taste—it’s the journey you took to get there.

THE COST OF FRANCHISING

If you're considering stepping into business ownership by buying a franchise, one of the most important steps is understanding the financial commitment involved. Franchising is a powerful way to own and operate your own business while leveraging the strength of an established brand—but like any business venture, it requires a well-considered investment of both time and capital.

Transparency - You deserve it!

At Drizzl’d, we’re passionate about doing things the right way. That includes being upfront with prospective franchise partners about what’s involved financially—so they can make informed, confident decisions from day one. While we don’t publish exact figures online, we do provide a clear, detailed breakdown of costs and timelines once you're engaged with us. Our Franchise Information Pack outlines each stage, what you’re paying for, when payments are due, and what you receive in return. No fine print. No confusion.

So, what should you expect when investing in a franchise like Drizzl’d—and what should you look out for when comparing opportunities?

Getting Started: Early-Stage Costs and Commitments

The journey typically begins with an expression of interest and an introductory conversation from one of our team. Once you’ve had time to review the franchise information and are ready to move forward, the first financial step includes a refundable deposit. This is a show of genuine commitment and is held securely in a legal trust account. It gives both parties the confidence to proceed with due diligence and deeper planning. If you choose to continue, this deposit is applied toward your overall franchise fee.

You’ll also incur legal fees, which are a standard part of any franchise transaction. These cover legal advice, contract drafting, and negotiations to ensure the terms of the agreement are fair, transparent, and clearly understood. At this point, you're not locked into anything—you’re simply making sure your rights are protected and you have a solid grasp of the expectations ahead.

The Build Phase: Setting Up Your Store

Once you’re officially onboard, the real excitement begins—location search, store design, and fit-out. This is where the bulk of the investment comes in.

You can expect:

• A franchise fee, which gives you the right to operate under the Drizzl’d brand and access to our proven systems and support network.

• Specialised equipment purchases, which vary depending on store layout and needs (some of which may need to be imported).

• Design and construction costs, which can vary based on your site’s condition, size, and location. Construction costs are generally estimated per square metre, and our team will work with you and experienced builders to provide an accurate forecast.

• A rental bond, typically equivalent to three months' rent, paid directly to your property manager.

• Working capital, which is highly recommended to help cover operational costs in the initial weeks and months after opening.

All of these costs are carefully itemised and explained in our internal documentation and discussed thoroughly with you before any payments are made. We also offer guidance in budgeting and forecasting, ensuring you’re financially prepared for each stage.

Preparing to Launch: Marketing, Training & Support

As you approach launch, you'll encounter training fees, a marketing fee for your grand opening, and a refundable retention bond held until the end of your franchise term. These ensure you're fully equipped to open with confidence, that your store is marketed effectively from day one, and that your staff is trained to uphold the Drizzl’d standard of service and quality.

This stage is about ensuring everything is in place—not just physically, but operationally. It’s our goal to set you up for a strong opening and ongoing success. That’s why we’ve structured our payment timeline and onboarding support to match each milestone.

What You Should Always Ask Before Buying a Franchise

If you're exploring franchise opportunities—whether with Drizzl’d or elsewhere—it’s important to ask the right questions:

• What’s included in the franchise and setup fees?

• Are there any hidden costs or variable charges I should know about?

• What ongoing fees or royalties are payable, and what do they cover?

• How much working capital is recommended beyond initial setup?

• How flexible is the model if market conditions change?

• Who is the owner? Do they have experiencing in leading teams, running businesses or management? Can I see us working together?

• And the most important question in our eyes, what level of involvement is required from the owner? Are you just buying a job or will this opportunity allow me to spend more time where it means this most?

These aren’t just technical questions—they’re key to understanding whether a franchise is a good fit for your lifestyle, goals, and financial situation.

Why Drizzl’d?

What sets Drizzl’d apart is the strength of our tested business model and our commitment to long-term franchise success. We didn’t rush into franchising. We waited, tested, adapted through tough economic conditions, and refined our systems—ensuring we were offering a resilient and scalable model that works even in challenging climates.

Whether you’re a first-time business owner or an experienced operator looking to join a fresh, dynamic brand, Drizzl’d offers a clear path forward. And we’re here to walk with you every step of the way.

If you're ready to explore franchising with Drizzl’d, submit your interest today. Our team will reach out to you, answer any initial questions, provide you with a detailed cost breakdown and help guide you through the process from initial enquiry to grand opening.

We look forward to working with you soon!

WHAT TOOK SO LONG?

From the very beginning, we built Drizzl’d with one goal in mind—growth through strength and stability. Long before we served our first hot ball doughnuts, our planning was centred around a growth mindset. Every decision, from branding to operations, was made not just for the present, but with a clear vision for the future. Scalability wasn’t an afterthought—it was the very foundation we built upon.

The sweetest dream you deserve!

Too often, businesses shift into growth mode only after they’ve launched. But by that stage, it becomes significantly harder. Retrofitting systems, reshaping mindset, and restructuring processes can be a costly and time-consuming challenge. We were determined not to fall into that trap. From day one, our business structure was intentionally crafted for both scalability and long-term sustainability.

Of course, a strong foundation means little unless it’s tested. And over the past few years, we’ve been put to the test. With rising costs of living, fluctuating consumer confidence, and broader economic instability, the post-COVID business landscape has challenged small businesses like never before. For us, this wasn’t just a hurdle—it was a proving ground.

Although we received franchising interest early on, we made a deliberate decision to hold off. We wanted to observe how the business would perform under pressure. We weren’t building Drizzl’d for quick wins—we were building it to last. And we knew we couldn’t confidently offer franchises until we’d seen how our systems held up in the most challenging of times.

Now, as we settle into 2025 and see early signs of economic recovery, we can proudly say that Drizzl’d not only survived, but adapted and thrived. While many businesses scaled back or closed their doors, we remained open, refined our operations, and continued to grow stronger. We’ve learned, evolved, and reinforced our commitment to excellence.

What we’ve learned is this: our model is not only profitable, it’s resilient. It’s designed to withstand change, to scale up confidently, and to operate without requiring the owner to be in-store every day. For prospective franchisees, this is a key consideration—can the business succeed without constant oversight? At Drizzl’d, the answer is a confident yes.

Now, with the foundation tested and proven, we’re opening the doors to franchising—not with blind optimism, but with clarity, confidence, and years of preparation behind us. We’ve taken the long route for good reason, and we’re now ready to welcome the right partners who want to be part of something truly special.

If you’re interested in joining our brand, we invite you to submit your interest here. Our team will be in touch to guide you through every step of the franchising process and answer any questions you may have. No question is a silly one—we’re here to support you and help you explore whether Drizzl’d is the right fit for your future.

DRIZZL’D, DESSERTS & DOPAMINE

There’s no denying the joy of biting into a warm, chocolate-drizzl’d churro or the comfort of a perfectly crispy hot-ball doughnut with some ice cream. But have you ever wondered why desserts have such an instant mood-boosting effect? It turns out that our love for sweets isn’t just about taste—it’s deeply rooted in science, psychology, and even evolution.

The three D’s: Drizzl’d, Desserts & a Dopamine hit.

At the heart of it all is dopamine, the brain’s “feel-good” chemical. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays a key role in pleasure and reward. When we eat something sweet, our brain releases dopamine, triggering a sense of happiness and satisfaction. This is the same chemical reaction that occurs when we accomplish a goal, listen to our favourite song, or experience something exciting. Essentially, dessert gives us a built-in happiness boost.

Our preference for sweet foods isn’t just psychological; it’s biological. From an evolutionary perspective, humans are naturally wired to crave sugar. In ancient times, sweet foods like fruits and honey were energy-rich and crucial for survival, so our brains developed a reward system that encourages us to seek them out. While today we no longer need to hunt for honeycombs or forage for berries, our love for sweetness has remained just as strong.

Beyond the science, desserts also trigger positive emotions and nostalgia. The scent of our warm cinnamon coated hot-ball doughnuts might transport you back to childhood, or the taste of creamy, melted chocolate could remind you of a special celebration. Food is deeply connected to our emotions, and desserts, in particular, hold a special place in many of our happiest memories. Whether it’s birthday cake, ice cream on a hot summer day, or a late-night hot-ball doughnut run with friends, sweet treats are often tied to joyful experiences.

There’s also something about the ritual of dessert that makes it so enjoyable. Unlike a rushed meal, dessert is usually savoured—whether it’s a casual café outing, a date night, or a catch-up with friends over something sweet. The experience itself adds to the happiness factor, making dessert more than just a food but a moment of pure indulgence and relaxation.

At Drizzl’d, we believe that dessert isn’t just about satisfying a craving—it’s about celebrating the small joys in life. Whether you’re treating yourself after a long day, sharing a couple trays of churros with mates, or simply enjoying a solo moment of indulgence, every bite is a reminder to enjoy the sweeter moments. So next time you’re in need of a mood boost, don’t underestimate the power of dessert—it’s happiness on a plate. 🍩🍫✨