The ice cream franchise industry has experienced significant growth in recent years, driven by an increasing demand for sweet treats and innovative dessert concepts. With the rising popularity of frozen desserts, the market has become more diverse, offering opportunities for entrepreneurs to invest in profitable and well-established franchises. If you’re looking to start your own business in the food and beverage sector but have a limited budget, you’re in luck. There are numerous ice cream franchise opportunities available for under $190,000. This article will provide you with a detailed overview of 5 top ice cream franchise options under $190,000, highlighting their initial investment requirements, benefits, and key features. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or a first-time investor, these franchises offer a great opportunity to enter a lucrative and growing market.
1. Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt
Overview
Menchie’s is a popular frozen yogurt franchise known for its self-serve model, where customers can customize their frozen yogurt creations with a wide variety of flavors and toppings. Since its inception in 2007, Menchie’s has expanded to numerous locations worldwide, providing a consistent and well-loved product that has attracted a loyal customer base. The company focuses on creating a fun and interactive environment, appealing to families, young professionals, and health-conscious individuals alike.
Initial Investment
The total initial investment for a Menchie’s franchise typically ranges from $100,000 to $190,000. This includes the franchise fee, which is between $35,000 and $50,000, as well as the costs of construction, equipment, signage, and initial inventory. Menchie’s also provides comprehensive training, ongoing support, and marketing resources to help franchisees succeed. The franchise offers flexible store formats, including standalone stores, inline units, and even kiosk locations, making it easier for investors to find a suitable location.
Why Choose Menchie’s?
Menchie’s has built a strong brand around its customer-centric approach and high-quality frozen yogurt. Franchisees benefit from a proven business model, a well-known brand, and a straightforward operational system. Additionally, the relatively low startup costs make it a great option for first-time investors who want to enter the foodservice industry without risking excessive capital. The company also places a strong emphasis on sustainability, with eco-friendly packaging and energy-efficient store designs. This aligns well with the growing consumer demand for environmentally conscious brands.
2. Cold Stone Creamery
Overview
Cold Stone Creamery is one of the most well-known ice cream franchises in the world, offering premium ice cream that is made fresh in-store. Their signature “mix-ins” allow customers to create customized ice cream combinations by choosing from a variety of ingredients that are mixed on a cold stone slab. Cold Stone’s rich and creamy ice cream, combined with its unique preparation style, has made it a favorite among ice cream lovers.
Initial Investment
The total initial investment for a Cold Stone Creamery franchise ranges from $135,000 to $180,000. This includes a franchise fee of $30,000 to $35,000, as well as the costs for equipment, signage, build-out, inventory, and marketing. Cold Stone Creamery offers several flexible store formats, from traditional mall kiosks to full-scale storefronts, which allows franchisees to choose the best location to suit their budget and business goals. The brand provides franchisees with comprehensive training and ongoing support, including marketing assistance and operational guidance.
Why Choose Cold Stone Creamery?
Cold Stone Creamery’s popularity is bolstered by its brand recognition and commitment to quality. With a proven business model, strong customer loyalty, and a diverse menu that caters to all tastes, franchisees have the opportunity to tap into a broad customer base. Cold Stone’s emphasis on fresh, hand-crafted ice cream and innovative flavor combinations gives it a competitive edge in the marketplace. Additionally, Cold Stone has a robust customer rewards program, which helps drive repeat business and build customer retention. For franchisees, this translates into a potentially high return on investment and a successful, profitable business.
3. Baskin-Robbins
Overview
Baskin-Robbins is arguably the most iconic ice cream brand globally, known for its “31 flavors,” which promise a different flavor for every day of the month. Founded in 1945, Baskin-Robbins has become synonymous with ice cream and is one of the most recognized names in the dessert industry. The brand is part of Dunkin’ Brands, which also operates Dunkin’ Donuts, further enhancing its reach and customer base.
Initial Investment
Baskin-Robbins offers a franchise opportunity with an initial investment requirement ranging from $95,000 to $190,000. The franchise fee is typically around $25,000, and additional costs for store build-out, equipment, and inventory will vary based on location. Baskin-Robbins provides extensive support for franchisees, including site selection, training, and marketing campaigns. With its established brand presence and loyal customer following, Baskin-Robbins offers a low-risk franchise opportunity for those looking to invest in the ice cream industry.
Why Choose Baskin-Robbins?
Baskin-Robbins’ long-standing reputation and brand recognition make it an attractive investment opportunity. The company’s menu offers a wide variety of flavors and products, including ice cream cakes and beverages, ensuring there is something for every customer. Franchisees benefit from a proven operational system and an extensive network of support. Moreover, Baskin-Robbins’ affiliation with Dunkin’ Brands provides additional marketing exposure and potential cross-promotional opportunities. For entrepreneurs looking for a well-established brand with a high rate of customer retention, Baskin-Robbins is a great choice.
4. Dippin’ Dots
Overview
Dippin’ Dots is a unique ice cream brand known for its “flash-frozen” ice cream beads, offering a distinct texture and presentation compared to traditional ice cream. The company was founded in 1988 and quickly gained attention for its innovative approach to ice cream, which is created by flash-freezing the ingredients with liquid nitrogen. Dippin’ Dots is especially popular in amusement parks, stadiums, and other entertainment venues, but its franchise model allows for a variety of locations, including standalone shops, kiosks, and mobile units.
Initial Investment
The initial investment for a Dippin’ Dots franchise typically ranges from $120,000 to $185,000. This includes the franchise fee, which is around $30,000, as well as costs for equipment, build-out, and initial inventory. Dippin’ Dots provides franchisees with thorough training, site selection assistance, and marketing support. The brand’s focus on innovation and its unique product offering have made it a popular choice for consumers seeking a fun and unconventional ice cream experience.
Why Choose Dippin’ Dots?
Dippin’ Dots offers a distinctive product that stands out in a crowded market. Its flash-frozen ice cream is a conversation starter and appeals to a wide range of customers, from children to adults looking for something different. The franchise model offers flexibility in terms of location and store format, making it suitable for a variety of business settings. The company’s strong presence in entertainment venues also provides franchisees with an opportunity to tap into a high-traffic market, potentially driving high sales volume. For investors looking to differentiate themselves in the ice cream space, Dippin’ Dots provides an exciting and unique opportunity.
See Also: 10 Ice Cream Franchise Opportunities Under $170,000 to Consider in 2024
5. Bruster’s Real Ice Cream
Overview
Bruster’s Real Ice Cream is an ice cream franchise that focuses on providing high-quality, hand-crafted ice cream made fresh daily. The brand has been serving delicious frozen treats since 1989, and it has grown to become a favorite among ice cream enthusiasts. Bruster’s offers a wide variety of ice cream flavors, cakes, sundaes, and milkshakes. Their commitment to freshness and quality has helped them maintain a loyal customer base.
Initial Investment
The total investment for a Bruster’s Real Ice Cream franchise typically ranges from $150,000 to $190,000. The franchise fee is approximately $30,000, with additional costs for equipment, signage, and build-out. Bruster’s offers both traditional storefronts and drive-thru locations, making it a flexible investment opportunity. The company provides franchisees with comprehensive support, including training, marketing, and site selection assistance.
Why Choose Bruster’s Real Ice Cream?
Bruster’s emphasis on fresh, high-quality ice cream gives it a competitive edge in the marketplace. The brand’s commitment to using real ingredients and crafting its ice cream on-site appeals to consumers who prioritize quality over convenience. Franchisees benefit from a proven business model, a loyal customer base, and a straightforward operational system. Bruster’s also offers a drive-thru model, which can be particularly beneficial for locations with high foot traffic or limited space. For those looking to invest in a brand with a reputation for quality and customer satisfaction, Bruster’s Real Ice Cream is an excellent choice.
Conclusion
Investing in an ice cream franchise can be a rewarding and profitable venture, especially in a market that continues to grow and evolve. For those with a budget of under $190,000, the five franchises discussed in this article—Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt, Cold Stone Creamery, Baskin-Robbins, Dippin’ Dots, and Bruster’s Real Ice Cream—offer excellent opportunities for entrepreneurs to enter the industry. Each brand has its own unique strengths, whether it’s a focus on customization, innovation, or high-quality products, ensuring that investors can find a franchise that aligns with their goals and preferences. With the right location, management, and customer service, owning an ice cream franchise can lead to long-term success and a thriving business in this sweet industry.
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