The founders of the store can even be seen working there for at least a couple of hours every week.
“Berryline is a place where people know your name,” says Hwang.
New to Cambridge, Pinkberry’s mission focuses more on its nationally-acclaimed product, according to Vice President of Brand Marketing Suzanne Ginestro.
But Pinkberry has also tried to enhance its community presence in Harvard Square. Before opening its doors, the store established a connection with Her Campus, reached out to the student population, and forged ties with local businesses.
In the first few weeks of Pinkberry’s debut, the turnout remained high.
“The Harvard Square community has really embraced us and we couldn’t be happier to be a part of it,” says Ginestro.
Well located, at the entrance to the Harvard T stop, and secure in the quality of its unique brand, Pinkberry representatives say they are not worried about competition from Berryline.
“We do not like to think in terms of having an advantage or disadvantage compared to another company, we simply continuously strive to offer the best product and experience to our patrons,” says Ginestro.
Berryline’s owners echo these sentiments.
“We’re obviously curious to see if we’re going to take a hit because of the other frozen yogurt shop,” Wallace says, “But we’re keeping true to what we’ve always done—staying a part of the community and preserving that local feel.”
CHOOSING SIDES
The presence of the two frozen yogurt chains has drawn the attention of the Harvard Square community and caused many students and Cambridge residents to passionately defend their preference.
Students say that taste, variety, and the general comfort level provided by the different stores are factors in determining whether they prefer Pinkberry or Berryline.
“The reason I like Pinkberry is because they’re open at 9 a.m. and they have a lot of options,” says Elizabeth C. Ahern ’12. “They’re a little cheaper because they give you more toppings, and they don’t charge per topping. They have better flavors than Berryline,” she adds.
Some students note that Pinkberry is more conveniently located.
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