Top Leading and Profitable Ice Cream Shop Franchises in US in 2024

Discover the cream of the crop with our guide to the Top Ice Cream Shop Franchises in 2024. From classic flavors to innovative creations, these franchises offer delightful opportunities for entrepreneurs eager to dip into the sweet world of ice cream. Whether you're looking to invest or simply indulge, explore which brands are making waves in the industry this year.

Top Ice Cream Shop Franchises with Low Investment Cost

These top ice cream shop franchises are ideal for aspiring entrepreneurs on a budget and offer low initial investment requirements. They provide an excellent entry point into the franchise market without compromising quality or potential profitability. These options are perfect for starting a business with minimal financial risk.

RITA'S ITALIAN ICE

Founded in: 1984
Franchising since: 1989
Franchise Units: 533
Initial investment range: $293,233 - $672,995
Initial Franchise Fee: $35,000
Royalty: 6.5%

Rita's Italian Ice offers a refreshing franchise opportunity in the frozen dessert industry, backed by a business model designed for efficiency and customer engagement. Known for its cult-like fan base and popular limited-time menu items, Rita's combines a strong brand presence with a streamlined operational model. Franchisees benefit from comprehensive support, low food costs, and simple preparation processes, making it an attractive investment for those looking to enter the frozen dessert market.

Unique Benefits for Franchisees:

• Cult-Like Fan Base: Benefit from a dedicated customer base and strong brand loyalty.
• Efficient Operations: Minimal staff requirements, typically just two to three people per shift, and low food costs with minimal spoilage.
• Comprehensive Support: Assistance with location evaluation, initial training, and ongoing operational support to help franchisees succeed.
• Innovative Marketing: Strong marketing strategies, including social media activity and limited-time-only menu items that keep customers engaged.
• Proven Systems: Leverage decades of refined systems and the collective wisdom of hundreds of existing franchisees.

Ideal Candidate for Rita's Italian Ice Franchise: The ideal candidate for a Rita's Italian Ice franchise is someone with a passion for customer service and a drive to succeed. Key qualities include:

• Customer-Centric: Dedicated to creating enjoyable experiences for customers and fostering brand loyalty.
• Operational Efficiency: Strong management skills to run a streamlined and efficient operation.
• Marketing Savvy: Ability to leverage innovative marketing strategies to attract and retain customers.
• Financial Readiness: Adequate capital to invest in the franchise, with a minimum of $100,000 available and a net worth of $300,000.
• Community Engagement: Eager to become an active and positive presence in the local community.

Rita's Italian Ice offers a compelling franchise opportunity with strong brand recognition, efficient operations, and comprehensive support. This makes it an ideal choice for entrepreneurs looking to invest in a popular and profitable frozen dessert franchise.

Top Ice Cream Franchises with High Market Demand

These ice cream shop franchises are positioned in markets with high consumer demand, ensuring a steady flow of customers. They leverage popular trends and preferences, making them a lucrative franchise choice. High market demand translates to higher potential revenue and growth opportunities.

ANDY'S FROZEN CUSTARD

Founded in: 1986
Franchising since: 2003
Franchise Units: 25
Initial investment range: $528,500 - $1,387,500
Initial Franchise Fee: $32,000
Royalty: 6%

Andy’s Frozen Custard offers a premium franchise opportunity in the frozen dessert industry, known for its high-quality, freshly made custard. Established with a focus on using only the finest and freshest ingredients, Andy’s provides a unique and memorable experience for customers. The franchise model is designed to deliver fast, efficient service through drive-thru and walk-up windows, ensuring quick customer turnaround and satisfaction.

Unique Benefits for Franchisees:

• Premium Product: Uses proprietary “mix” from a single dairy in the Midwest, prepared hourly on hand-built custard machines to ensure unmatched quality.
• Efficient Operations: Drive-thru and walk-up ordering windows for quick service, reducing wait times and increasing customer throughput.
• Comprehensive Support: Extensive training and ongoing support to replicate the proven success of Andy’s Frozen Custard at every location.
• Community Engagement: Friendly and fun environment that fosters a sense of community, enhanced by award-winning architecture.
• Diverse Offerings: Includes options for enjoying custard at home with Andy’s Anywhere treats, catering to various customer needs.

Ideal Candidate for Andy's Frozen Custard Franchise: The ideal candidate for an Andy’s Frozen Custard franchise is someone with a passion for high-quality food service and customer satisfaction. Key qualities include:

• Commitment to Quality: Dedication to maintaining the high standards of product quality and freshness that Andy’s is known for.
• Operational Efficiency: Strong management skills to ensure efficient and effective business operations.
• Customer Service Excellence: Focus on providing a friendly, fun, and memorable experience for every customer.
• Community Orientation: Eager to engage with the local community and create a welcoming environment.
• Financial Readiness: Adequate capital to invest in the franchise and support its growth.

Andy’s Frozen Custard offers a distinctive franchise opportunity with a focus on premium products, efficient operations, and strong community engagement. This makes it an ideal investment for those looking to enter the frozen dessert market with a trusted and beloved brand.

HANDEL'S HOMEMADE ICE CREAM

Founded in: 1945
Franchising since: 1989
Franchise Units: 111
Initial investment range: $311,000 - $936,000
Initial Franchise Fee: $50,000
Royalty: 6%

Handel's Homemade Ice Cream offers a unique franchise opportunity in the premium ice cream industry, known for its rich, creamy texture and wide variety of flavors. Established in 1945, Handel's has built a strong reputation for quality and customer loyalty. The franchise model is designed to provide franchisees with the tools and support needed to succeed in the competitive ice cream market.

Unique Benefits for Franchisees:

• Premium Quality: Handel's uses only the finest ingredients to create its homemade ice cream, ensuring a superior product that customers love.
• Wide Variety: Over 100 flavors of ice cream, sherbet, ices, and yogurt to attract and retain a diverse customer base.
• Proven Success: Established brand with a loyal following and a history of success in various markets.
• Comprehensive Training: Extensive training programs and ongoing support to ensure franchisee success.
• Marketing and Branding Support: Access to a strong marketing strategy and brand recognition to drive customer traffic and sales.

Ideal Candidate for Handel's Homemade Ice Cream Franchise: The ideal candidate for a Handel's Homemade Ice Cream franchise is someone who is passionate about delivering high-quality products and exceptional customer service. Key qualities include:

• Commitment to Quality: Dedication to maintaining the high standards of product quality that Handel's is known for.
• Customer-Centric: Focus on creating an enjoyable and memorable experience for every customer.
• Operational Efficiency: Strong management and organizational skills to ensure smooth and efficient operations.
• Community Involvement: Eager to engage with the local community and build strong relationships.
• Financial Stability: Adequate capital to invest in the franchise and support its growth.

Handel's Homemade Ice Cream offers a compelling franchise opportunity with its premium products, strong brand recognition, and comprehensive support. This makes it an ideal choice for entrepreneurs looking to invest in a successful and beloved ice cream brand.

Top Ice Cream Franchises with Strong Brand Recognition

Franchises in this category benefit from strong brand recognition, significantly boosting their market presence and customer trust. Established names in the ice cream industry attract loyal customers and offer a proven business model. Strong brand recognition can lead to quicker success and a competitive edge in the market.

BASKIN-ROBBINS

Founded in: 1945
Franchising since: 1948
Franchise Units: 7,682
Initial investment range: $293,840 - $642,360
Initial Franchise Fee: $25,000
Royalty: 5.9%

Baskin-Robbins offers an exceptional franchise opportunity in the ice cream industry, known for its iconic 31 flavors and innovative product offerings. Established in 1945, Baskin-Robbins has built a globally recognized brand with a loyal customer base. The franchise model is designed to provide franchisees with comprehensive support, innovative marketing strategies, and access to a wide range of high-quality products, ensuring a successful and profitable business venture.

Unique Benefits for Franchisees:

• Global Brand Recognition: Leverage the strong brand presence and trust built over decades, with over 8,000 locations worldwide.
• Innovative Product Line: Access to a wide variety of unique and seasonal flavors, as well as creative frozen desserts and beverages.
• Comprehensive Support: Extensive training programs, marketing assistance, and operational support to help franchisees succeed.
• Marketing Expertise: Benefit from national and local marketing campaigns, digital marketing strategies, and promotional activities that drive customer traffic and sales.
• Proven Business Model: A time-tested business model with a history of success and adaptability in various markets.

Ideal Candidate for Baskin-Robbins Franchise: The ideal candidate for a Baskin-Robbins franchise is someone who is passionate about delivering high-quality frozen desserts and creating enjoyable customer experiences. Key qualities include:

• Brand Alignment: Commitment to upholding the values and standards of the Baskin-Robbins brand.
• Operational Excellence: Strong management skills and focus on efficient and effective business operations.
• Customer Service Focused: Dedication to providing exceptional service and creating a welcoming environment for customers.
• Entrepreneurial Spirit: Motivated to grow and expand the business within the franchise system.
• Financial Capability: Adequate capital to invest in the franchise and support its growth.

Baskin-Robbins offers a robust and reliable franchise opportunity with its strong brand recognition, innovative products, and comprehensive support. This makes it an ideal choice for entrepreneurs looking to invest in a successful and globally recognized ice cream franchise.

DAIRY QUEEN

Founded in: 1940
Franchising since: 1940
Franchise Units: 7,397
Initial investment range: $1,511,200 - $2,531,250
Initial Franchise Fee: $45,000
Royalty: 4%

Dairy Queen (DQ) offers a timeless franchise opportunity in the fast-food and frozen treat industry. Since its inception in 1938, Dairy Queen has grown into a globally recognized brand with over 7,500 locations in 20 countries. Known for its iconic Blizzard treats, soft-serve ice cream, and a variety of fast-food items, Dairy Queen combines tradition with innovation to deliver a unique customer experience. The franchise model is designed to provide comprehensive support and resources, ensuring the success of franchisees in various markets.

Unique Benefits for Franchisees:

• Strong Brand Recognition: Leverage the established and trusted Dairy Queen brand with a loyal customer base.
• Diverse Menu Offerings: Includes a wide range of products from Blizzard treats and soft-serve ice cream to burgers, sandwiches, and more.
• Comprehensive Support: Receive extensive training, marketing assistance, and operational support from the Dairy Queen team.
• Proven Business Model: Benefit from a time-tested business model with a history of success and adaptability in various markets.
• Community Engagement: Opportunities to play a significant role in the community by creating great customer experiences and a welcoming environment.

Ideal Candidate for Dairy Queen Franchise: The ideal candidate for a Dairy Queen franchise is someone who is passionate about delivering high-quality food and exceptional customer service. Key qualities include:

• Customer Service Focused: Dedicated to providing an enjoyable and memorable experience for every customer.
• Operational Excellence: Strong management and organizational skills to ensure efficient business operations.
• Community-Oriented: Eager to engage with the local community and build strong relationships.
• Entrepreneurial Spirit: Motivated to grow and expand the business within the Dairy Queen franchise system.
• Financial Capability: Adequate capital to invest in the franchise and support its growth.

Dairy Queen offers a robust and reliable franchise opportunity with its strong brand recognition, diverse menu offerings, and comprehensive support. This makes it an ideal choice for entrepreneurs looking to invest in a successful and globally recognized fast-food and frozen treat franchise.

BEN & JERRY'S

Founded in: 1978
Franchising since: 1981
Franchise Units: 558
Initial investment range: $155,900 - $549,300
Initial Franchise Fee: $18,000 - $39,500
Royalty: 3%

Ben & Jerry's offers a unique franchise opportunity in the premium ice cream market, known for its commitment to high-quality ingredients, innovative flavors, and strong social mission. Established in 1978, Ben & Jerry's has grown into a globally recognized brand with a loyal customer base. The franchise model is designed to provide comprehensive support and resources, ensuring the success of franchisees.

Unique Benefits for Franchisees:

• Strong Brand Recognition: Benefit from the well-established and globally recognized Ben & Jerry's brand.
• Innovative Flavors: Access to a wide variety of unique and creative ice cream flavors that attract and retain customers.
• Social Responsibility: Align with a brand committed to social and environmental causes, resonating with today's consumers.
• Comprehensive Support: Receive extensive training, marketing assistance, and ongoing operational support.
• Proven Success: Utilize a time-tested business model with a history of profitability and adaptability.

Ideal Candidate for Ben & Jerry's Franchise: 

The ideal candidate for a Ben & Jerry's franchise is passionate about high-quality food and social responsibility. Key qualities include:

• Alignment with Brand Values: Commitment to Ben & Jerry's mission of social and environmental responsibility.
• Customer Service Focused: Dedicated to providing exceptional service and creating a welcoming environment.
• Operational Excellence: Strong management and organizational skills to ensure efficient operations.
• Community Engagement: Eager to engage with the local community and build strong relationships.
• Financial Capability: Adequate capital to invest in the franchise and support its growth.

Ben & Jerry's offers a meaningful and profitable franchise opportunity with its strong brand recognition, unique product offerings, and commitment to social causes. This makes it an ideal choice for entrepreneurs looking to invest in a successful and ethically driven ice cream franchise.

Initial Investment And Opening Costs For Ice Cream Shop Franchises

Starting an ice cream shop franchise involves various costs that potential franchisees must consider before diving into the business. Here’s a breakdown of the typical initial investment and opening costs associated with ice cream shop franchises:

• Franchise Fee: This is the upfront cost paid to the franchisor for the rights to use the brand and its business model. Franchise fees for ice cream shops can range from $20,000 to $50,000, depending on the brand's market recognition and popularity.
• Leasehold Improvements and Equipment: Costs can vary significantly depending on the location and condition of the premises. This includes remodeling to fit the brand’s standard layout and purchasing equipment like freezers, ice cream machines, counters, and seating. The total cost might range from $100,000 to $250,000.
• Inventory: An initial stock of ice cream, toppings, cones, cups, and other serving materials is essential. This cost is relatively low compared to other expenses and might range between $5,000 and $15,000.
• Operating Capital: It's crucial to have operating capital to cover expenses until the business becomes self-sustaining. This should include funds for staffing, utilities, and other day-to-day operational costs, typically ranging from $20,000 to $50,000.
• Marketing and Grand Opening: Marketing expenses to promote the franchise's opening are vital for attracting initial customers. Promotional materials, local advertisements, and a grand opening event can total $10,000 to $25,000.
• Miscellaneous Fees: These include legal fees, insurance, business licenses, and other regulatory compliance costs, which could be around $10,000 to $20,000.

The initial investment for opening an ice cream shop franchise generally falls between $165,000 and $410,000. This wide range depends on the brand, location, size of the shop, and the extent of renovations required. Prospective franchisees should

Benefits Of Opening Ice Cream Shop Franchise

Opening an ice cream shop franchise comes with various benefits that can appeal to budding entrepreneurs and seasoned business owners alike. Here are some key advantages:

• Established Brand Recognition: One of the primary benefits of opening a franchise is the ability to operate under a brand already recognized and trusted by consumers. This can lead to quicker customer acquisition and loyalty, as people are more likely to visit a store they recognize and associate with positive experiences.
• Proven Business Model: Franchises offer a tried and tested business model, which reduces the risks associated with starting a new business from scratch. Franchisees receive a blueprint for operating their business, including best practices for day-to-day operations, staff management, and marketing strategies.
• Training and Support: Most ice cream shop franchises provide comprehensive training programs that help franchisees understand the business, from making ice cream to managing finances. Continuous support in the form of marketing, new product updates, and operational advice is also provided, ensuring that franchisees are not left to manage challenges on their own.
• Marketing Assistance: Franchisors often conduct national or regional marketing campaigns that can significantly boost local business visibility and customer footfall. Additionally, franchisees benefit from all franchise members' collective marketing fund contributions, enabling more substantial promotional efforts than what might be achievable individually.
• Economies of Scale: By being part of a larger franchise network, ice cream shop owners can benefit from lower inventory costs due to bulk purchasing agreements negotiated by the franchisor. This includes ingredients, equipment, and packaging, leading to better profit margins.
• Community and Networking: Being part of a franchise system provides a community of fellow franchisees who can offer advice based on their experiences. This network can be a valuable resource for solving common problems and sharing innovative ideas.
• Seasonal Popularity: Ice cream continues to be a popular treat during warm months, and having a business that peaks seasonally can provide substantial revenues that compensate for slower periods.

These benefits make opening an ice cream shop franchise attractive for those looking to enter a fun, rewarding, and potentially lucrative business.

What Points To Pay Attention To When Opening Ice Cream Shop Franchise

Opening an ice cream shop franchise is exciting, but several critical factors must be considered to ensure your business starts on the right foot and continues to thrive. Here are key points to pay attention to:

• Location: The success of an ice cream shop heavily depends on its location. Ideal locations are high-traffic areas such as shopping malls, tourist attractions, and nearby schools and parks. Ensure the location is visible and easily accessible to your target demographic.
• Local Market Research: Understand the local market and demographics. Analyze the demand for ice cream and related treats in the area and consider local preferences and potential competition. Knowing what flavors or products are popular locally can help tailor your offerings and marketing strategies.
• Franchise Agreement: Read and understand the franchise agreement thoroughly. Pay attention to terms regarding royalties, marketing fees, territory rights, and the duration of the franchise agreement. It's advisable to consult with a lawyer experienced in franchise law to clarify any points and ensure your interests are protected.
• Financial Planning: Accurate financial planning is crucial. Ensure you have a clear understanding of all initial costs and ongoing fees and adequate capital for operations until the business becomes profitable. Consider unexpected costs and have a buffer in your budget to handle them.
• Quality Control: Maintaining the quality of products and services is essential. Follow the franchisor's guidelines strictly to meet the brand standards that customers expect. Regular training for staff on the proper handling and preparation of products will help maintain quality and customer satisfaction.
• Staffing: Efficient, friendly staff can greatly enhance customer experience. Hiring employees who are not only skilled but also enjoy interacting with people can create a welcoming atmosphere that encourages repeat business.
• Seasonality: Ice cream sales can be seasonal in many locations, with demand peaking during warmer months. Plan for fluctuations in business volume, including financial management and staffing levels, to ensure stability throughout the year.
• Marketing and Promotion: While the franchisor may provide national or regional advertising, local marketing is also important. Engage with the community, participate in local events, and use social media to promote your location. Tailoring promotions to local holidays, events, and trends can also drive traffic.
• Compliance with Regulations: Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and business regulations. This includes obtaining necessary permits and health inspections. Regular training on hygiene practices is crucial, especially in a food service business.

By carefully considering these points, you can set a strong foundation for your ice cream shop franchise and increase your chances of success in this delightful industry.