MilkShake Factory to Celebrate Grand Opening of Old Town Fort Collins Location on Saturday, August 15

To celebrate, the Old Town Fort Collins MilkShake Factory will host a grand opening event on Saturday, August 15, from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m., featuring a buy one, get one free offer on shakes, sundaes and molten cups, free MilkShake Factory T-shirts for the first 100 customers, and festive giveaways throughout the afternoon.

Owned and operated by local franchisee Zaki Kamandy, the new MilkShake Factory is located in the same building where his parents opened a restaurant more than 45 years ago. The historic Old Town property dates back to 1890, and Kamandy and his brother spent much of their childhood around the family’s restaurant business. The renovated space retains much of its original character, including tall ceilings, exposed brick and large skylights.

“Opening MilkShake Factory in Old Town Fort Collins really is a dream come true,” said Kamandy. “I grew up in this building and around my family’s restaurants, so hospitality has always been part of my life. After more than 20 years in New York, coming home to open my first business in the same place where my father got his start more than 45 years ago feels incredibly special. MilkShake Factory immediately stood out to me because of its thoughtful design, quality products and fun, welcoming concept, and I’m excited to bring it to a place that means so much to my family.”

The location brings together two brands rooted in family tradition. MilkShake Factory traces its history to 1914, when Charlie and Orania Edwards opened a small soda fountain and chocolate shop in Pittsburgh. More than a century later, the fourth-generation family business continues that legacy through its handcrafted milkshakes, housemade ice cream and premium chocolates while expanding into communities across the country.

“Zaki’s story and connection to this building make Old Town Fort Collins an especially meaningful place for MilkShake Factory,” said Dana Edwards Manatos, Founder & CEO of MilkShake Factory. “Our own brand was built through generations of family, hospitality and a love of bringing people together, so there is something incredibly fitting about Zaki beginning his next chapter in a place that has been part of his family’s story for decades. We’re thrilled to welcome him to the MilkShake Factory family and become part of the Old Town community.”

The menu includes milkshake flavors such as Chocolate Dipped Strawberry and Campfire S’mores, alongside handcrafted sundaes, molten chocolate cups and housemade chocolate treats, prepared in-store daily using a family recipe.

Located in Old Town, the store sits in a district with dining, shopping and entertainment options. Kamandy noted the neighborhood's historic charm and its role as a gathering place for families, students, residents and visitors, with festivals, concerts and seasonal events bringing people downtown throughout the year.