Judy Kim’s journey to becoming a successful Bruster’s Real Ice Cream franchisee in Aurora, Illinois, exemplifies her entrepreneurial drive and passion for quality desserts. Bruster’s, a Pittsburgh-based brand, is renowned for its signature hand-crafted ice cream, offering at least 24 fresh flavors daily at its locations.
Although Kim originally worked as an educational research consultant, her family’s history of owning a dry-cleaning business taught her the value of building a company from the ground up. While her consulting career was thriving, she sought a new challenge and an opportunity to diversify her interests. Franchising, she found, offered a perfect fit.
Kim considered several franchise opportunities but found Bruster’s to be the only one she wanted to pursue. “My work ethic requires me to believe in what I do, as well as the products I sell,” she said. Having previously enjoyed Bruster’s ice cream while living in Maryland, Kim was disappointed by the lack of comparable options when she moved to the Chicago area. That’s when the idea struck: “Why don’t I bring Bruster’s here?”
Her decision to reach out to Bruster’s was met with enthusiasm from the brand, which Kim found immediately appealing. She was already a fan of the product, but it was Bruster’s commitment to quality and its supportive, close-knit franchise network that truly won her over. Eager to learn more, Kim and her business partner, Tony Ford, visited Bruster’s locations across the country, speaking with franchisees who shared their positive experiences. The strong community of franchisees cemented their decision to move forward, and in March 2024, they opened their first Bruster’s location in Aurora.
The grand opening exceeded all of Kim’s expectations. The early demand was overwhelming, but the support from the Bruster’s corporate team proved vital to her success. “They always answer or immediately call back and take time to have a conversation with me,” she said.
Kim’s success with Bruster’s has been both personally and professionally rewarding. She’s fulfilled her passion for exceptional ice cream, built meaningful relationships within the Aurora community, and found joy in her daily work. “I get to be a part of the Aurora family and the Bruster’s family,” she explained. “I get to eat the best ice cream every day, interact with staff and customers, and go home smelling like sweet waffle cones.” This sense of accomplishment drives her every day.
Looking toward the future, Kim plans to open two additional Bruster’s locations, continuing her growth and journey with the brand. With her perseverance, passion, and the backing of Bruster’s franchise community, Kim’s story is a reminder that success can take many forms—especially when it’s served in a cone.
Bruster’s Real Ice Cream, known for its more than 150 premium handcrafted flavors, including non-dairy oat milk options, sherbet, Italian ice, and sorbet, has over 200 independently owned locations across 22 states and Guyana. Each Bruster’s location crafts at least 24 fresh flavors daily with its proprietary home-style mix delivered directly from the dairy.
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