Investing in an ice cream franchise can be a sweet way to enter the business world, especially if you’re looking for something fun and profitable. If you’re considering this type of investment, but don’t have a huge budget, you might be interested in ice cream franchises that cost less than $170,000. These franchises offer a variety of business models, including mobile units, kiosks, and brick-and-mortar stores, making it possible to find an option that fits your goals, location, and available capital. Here are ten ice cream franchise opportunities you can invest in for less than $170,000, along with details about what each franchise offers and how they stand out in the competitive ice cream industry.
Why Choose an Ice Cream Franchise?
Franchising offers a proven business model with the support of a larger brand behind it. This makes it less risky than starting your own business from scratch. With the right investment, you can tap into an established brand, benefit from marketing support, and receive training on running a successful operation. Ice cream franchises are particularly appealing because of their low startup costs, seasonal demand, and customer loyalty. People love ice cream, and it’s a treat that appeals to a wide range of customers. Whether it’s a hot summer day or a cold winter night, ice cream remains a favorite dessert, ensuring that franchises in this industry can experience consistent demand. Additionally, many ice cream franchise brands offer the option of operating smaller locations or mobile units, reducing overhead costs and expanding potential locations.
Top 10 Ice Cream Franchises Under $170,000
1. Sweet Frog Frozen Yogurt
Sweet Frog is a frozen yogurt franchise that allows customers to create their own froyo creations. The initial investment for this franchise is between $115,000 and $169,000, depending on location and size of the store. The franchise is known for its strong brand and customer loyalty. Sweet Frog offers a low-cost entry into the frozen yogurt industry with ongoing training and marketing support.
2. Baskin-Robbins
Baskin-Robbins is one of the most well-known ice cream brands in the world. For an initial investment between $93,000 and $169,000, you can open a Baskin-Robbins store. The brand is famous for its 31 flavors and offers significant brand recognition, which is a powerful tool in attracting customers. Baskin-Robbins also offers flexible options such as kiosk and store formats, providing the opportunity to suit your investment and space needs.
3. Dippin’ Dots
Known as the “ice cream of the future,” Dippin’ Dots offers a unique product with a fun, futuristic twist. The cost to open a Dippin’ Dots franchise is between $125,000 and $150,000. With its unique frozen bead ice cream and established brand, Dippin’ Dots stands out in the ice cream market. The brand has a loyal following, especially in amusement parks, malls, and entertainment venues.
4. Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt
Menchie’s offers frozen yogurt in a fun, self-serve format. The initial franchise investment ranges from $145,000 to $175,000. Menchie’s is known for its vibrant store atmosphere and commitment to quality. The franchise also has a low royalty rate, making it an attractive option for franchisees looking to keep operational costs down.
5. Rita’s Italian Ice
Rita’s Italian Ice combines a variety of frozen treats, including Italian ice, custard, and gelati, into one business model. The initial investment for a Rita’s franchise typically ranges from $124,000 to $170,000. The franchise offers a flexible model, with options to open a cart, kiosk, or full store. Rita’s is well-known for its quality products and offers franchisees a comprehensive support system.
6. Cold Stone Creamery
Cold Stone Creamery is one of the leading premium ice cream franchises, offering made-to-order ice cream creations. The franchise cost is between $121,000 and $167,000, making it a relatively affordable investment in the premium ice cream space. Cold Stone is known for its high-quality ingredients and customer engagement. The brand also has strong marketing and training support, ensuring franchisees have the tools needed to succeed.
7. The Cow and The Moon
This Australian-based ice cream brand has expanded into the U.S. with a unique offering of handmade, premium ice cream. The franchise investment ranges between $100,000 and $170,000, offering a lower-cost option for those looking to get into the market with a trendy brand. The Cow and The Moon stands out with its focus on unique, high-quality ice cream flavors made from local ingredients.
8. Yogurtland
Yogurtland is another popular frozen yogurt brand that offers a self-serve model, making it a cost-effective choice for franchisees. The investment required to open a Yogurtland franchise typically ranges from $170,000 to $175,000, depending on location and other factors. Yogurtland has a strong customer base, offering an ever-changing menu of yogurt and topping options. The self-serve model helps keep costs low, and the brand offers robust franchise support.
9. Scooter’s Frozen Custard
Scooter’s Frozen Custard offers a unique twist on traditional ice cream, featuring frozen custard made with fresh ingredients. The initial franchise investment is between $130,000 and $165,000. With its growing popularity and customer base, Scooter’s presents a great opportunity for franchisees looking to enter a business with a unique offering. The brand focuses on high-quality custard and customer service, which keeps customers coming back.
10. Ice Cream Shoppe
The Ice Cream Shoppe is a classic ice cream franchise that offers a variety of frozen desserts in a traditional ice cream parlor setting. The initial investment for an Ice Cream Shoppe franchise ranges from $110,000 to $150,000. This franchise offers a low-cost entry into the ice cream business, with a focus on serving high-quality, traditional ice cream in a family-friendly atmosphere.
See Also: 10 Ice Cream Franchise Opportunities Under $110,000: A Guide to Success
Why Choose a Low-Cost Ice Cream Franchise?
Opting for a low-cost ice cream franchise under $170,000 allows you to enter the industry with less financial risk. These franchises generally have a lower barrier to entry compared to other businesses that may require a higher initial investment. With a lower upfront cost, you have a greater chance of recovering your investment more quickly and starting your business with a manageable budget. Additionally, ice cream franchises often have established brand recognition, which helps attract customers and generate sales from day one.
Many of these brands also offer flexible business models that make them appealing to a wide range of entrepreneurs. For example, some franchises allow you to open a smaller location or even operate a mobile unit, meaning you don’t have to rent or purchase an expensive storefront. The lower overhead costs can increase profitability, especially if you can secure high-traffic locations such as shopping malls, theme parks, or tourist areas. Moreover, the ongoing support and training provided by these ice cream brands can ensure that you have the knowledge and tools necessary to succeed.
conclusion
Investing in an ice cream franchise under $170,000 is a fantastic opportunity for anyone looking to enter the business world with a proven model. The ice cream industry is consistently popular, and many of these franchises offer flexible options that cater to different locations and budgets. Whether you choose a well-established brand like Baskin-Robbins or a trendy option like The Cow and The Moon, you’ll be part of a growing industry with a loyal customer base. The key is to research each franchise, evaluate your financial situation, and find the right fit for your goals and lifestyle.
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