September 16, 2024 l Orange County - Shirley Shinn’s life has always been about exploration, passion, and the pursuit of beauty. For a decade, she soared through the skies as a flight attendant for Cathay Pacific, traveling the world and experiencing the richness of global cultures. It was during these years of endless horizons that Shirley discovered her love for life’s small but meaningful pleasures: a perfectly crafted drink, a scoop of creamy, inventive ice cream, and the way these delights could bring people together.
Shirley’s creative soul was also shaped by her education at a prestigious fashion school, where she honed her eye for aesthetics and design. With a unique blend of worldly experience and artistic vision, she began dreaming of creating something beautiful that would combine her passions: a place where people could enjoy exceptional treats in an atmosphere that felt both innovative and welcoming.
In 2020, during the challenging early days of the global pandemic, Shirley turned her dream into reality by opening the first Nobibi in Chino Hills, California. Despite the uncertainty of the time, Nobibi quickly became a beacon of joy, offering artfully crafted ice cream and drinks that delighted customers with their unique flavors and Instagram-worthy presentation. Shirley’s vision was to create not just desserts but experiences, where every detail — from the whimsical packaging to the quality of the ingredients — was a reflection of her dedication to excellence.
By 2023, Shirley’s hard work and Nobibi’s growing popularity caught the attention of OneV Capital Partners, a private equity firm focusing on commercial real estate and the F&B industry. With their partnership, Nobibi began an ambitious expansion. In just 12 months, Nobibi emerged as one of the fastest-growing franchises in its category, with nearly 20 stores opened or in development. Starting in the U.S., Nobibi rapidly expanded internationally. The vibrant district of Polanco in Mexico City welcomed its playful and premium creations, while Medan, Indonesia, embraced the brand’s unique blend of innovation and quality, resonating with the region’s diverse culinary culture.
These rapid developments demonstrated the universal appeal of Nobibi’s concept and the strength of Shirley’s vision. Each new store became a reflection of her dedication to creating not just desserts, but moments of joy and connection for customers around the world.
Shirley Shinn’s journey from the skies to the world of desserts is a testament to the power of following one’s passions. Through Nobibi, she has created a brand that satisfies cravings, inspires smiles, and brings people together. With its remarkable growth and global presence, Shirley’s dream of sharing beauty and happiness with the world continues to soar higher than ever.
