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How to Write an Ice Cream Shop Business Plan

Tyler Martinez Author

Tyler Martinez

Business Plan for Ice Cream Shops Guide

A la mode, in the US, means a dessert that is topped with ice cream, but the phrase is a French idiom that roughly translates to “fashionable.” Ice cream is one of life’s luxuries – only in recent history have we been able to maintain the freezing temperatures required to make and distribute ice cream. Aren't we lucky to get to live in this time of ice cream ubiquity?

Whether you're a Ben & Jerry's devotee or you've gotten familiar with the churning of a countertop ice cream maker, venturing into the world of ice cream is an exciting and delicious endeavor.

There are a variety of models of ice cream shops that find success – traditional ice cream parlors that revive a nostalgic aesthetic, more contemporary ice cream “laboratories” that experiment with flavors, toppings, and methods, gelato shops that serve up extra-rich, punchy flavors found in Italy, and shops that focus on Thai rolled ice cream, or any other specialty.

Even if an ice cream shop seems like a relatively low-risk venture – who doesn’t love ice cream? – it's crucial to build a business plan so that your shop can get started without setbacks and operate smoothly.

Why Build an Ice Cream Shop Business Plan?

There is simultaneously more and less competition in the ice cream market than one might expect. It seems easy to find an ice cream-focused fast food chain or parlor franchise like Dairy Queen, but those shops don’t dominate the market share.

Some customers are seeking an experience from another decade, whether they were there for it in the original or not. Ice cream parlors are one of those market niches where clinging to the past works – some of the busiest ice cream shops don’t have experimental flavors or nitrogen, they have charm and consistency.

Other customers want a specialized experience and are always seeking the next new trend. Ice cream shops that rely too heavily on a fad like liquid-nitrogen shakes often don’t have longevity. 

A business plan for your ice cream shop is crucial for helping you define if you want to interact with the classic ice cream parlor genre or define a sustainable new path that hops from trend to trend with the times.

How to Write an Ice Cream Shop Business Plan (Description, Examples, Proposals)

While the specifics of a business plan for an ice cream shop are unique, this restaurant business plan template is a helpful tool for imagining and executing your vision for an ice cream shop. Download a customizable version of the template below and read on to learn more about how to make it work for your shop.

Related Business Plan Resources

Ice Cream Shop Business Plan Executive Summary Ice Cream Shop Financial Plan Ice Cream Shop Operations Plan Ice Cream Shop Industry Market Analysis Ice Cream Shop Management Team

Restaurant Business Plan Template

No matter where you’re at in your restaurant ownership journey, a business plan will be your north star. Organize your vision and ensure that nothing is overlooked with this free template.

Elements of an Ice Cream Shop Business Plan

Executive summary.

As the first section of your business plan, the executive summary is your prime opportunity to make a good impression on your audience with a concise introduction to your concept and a summary of the operations of your ice cream shop. Drag your audience into your shop with vivid descriptions of your vision.

An executive summary introduces the key elements of your business plan – consider providing an overview of the budget, the shop’s mission and core values, and a coherent vision for your shop’s brand. Write your executive summary with the audience in mind, thinking about how you can grab the attention of potential investors and convince them to keep reading. With self-serve frozen yogurt in every strip mall, how will your ice cream shop excite customers (and investors)?

Company Overview

The company overview compliments the executive summary to provide a quick look at your ice cream shop’s business model, but this section is more practical than attention-grabbing. Provide readers with glossary to the rest of your plan with descriptions of your ice cream making process, information about ownership and management, and a walkthrough of the customer experience.

When people think of ice cream, they probably don’t see dollar signs – making an ice cream shop business plan attractive to investors with lots of portfolio options is a unique challenge that a detailed and attractive business plan can help you to meet. 

Team and Management

First, place yourself in the ice cream shop – are you a distant owner, the store’s general manager, research and development team or some combination of ice cream confectioner and financier? Then, provide information about the roles you will need to fill and how you will fill and organize those workers. 

It’s likely that you will have a relatively small team at your ice cream shop, even if you expand beyond just ice cream and other frozen treats. Consider writing about the employees you will hire and what kind of jobs you will be providing.

Sample Menu

Ice cream, shakes, frozen yogurt, gelato, sorbet, sundaes, ice cream cakes – ice cream shops offer a wide range of sweet frozen treats, and the range of desserts and flavors that you will offer in your shop is your opportunity to showcase your creativity.

You might include information about whether you will sell ice cream from a local vendor or make your own, and what kind of traditional or experimental flavors and serving methods you will feature. Is there a consistent theme for your menu or iconic custom flavors that you will offer seasonally? Will you offer drinks like Italian soda, or even some savory snacks for those without a sweet tooth?

A sample menu is one of the greatest assets of your business plan and building a menu is a productive exercise for ensuring that your plan is airtight before presenting it to potential clients or investors.

Restaurant Menu Templates

Use these menu templates as a starting point for your menu design or to give your menus a refresh.

Market Analysis

The market for ice cream is busy, and competition between self-serve frozen yogurt, nostalgic ice cream parlors, and contemporary frozen treat laboratories is intense. A strong, memorable, and coherent brand that fills a need in your local market is important for the success of your shop. 

Evaluate the local market. In your town, what opening is there for an ice cream shop and, furthermore, does that overlap with your vision? Is there more demand than the current market can meet? Or, how might you shift your vision to meet a market opening?

Explain to your potential investors or partners that you’ve considered a path to success for your business in the area you’re in, identify a potential base of customers, and planned to capture that market.

Marketing and Publicity

Finding an opening in the local market for ice cream shops is the first step but spreading the word about your business is the only way to get customers into your doors. Consider planning a grand opening to generate some intrigue for your store and detail how you’ll convince those new customers to become regulars.

Social media , print advertising, loyalty programs – these are all good strategies for marketing your ice cream shop but what will make them great is how they target your potential customers and convince them to visit your shop.

Branded Graphics

One of the most exciting aspects of building a cohesive brand across your business plan is creating branded graphics that convey your brand’s concept to both potential investors and customers. Think about how you might represent the ethos of your ice cream shop and the experiences that you plan to offer your customers through branded graphics and the design of the documents in your business plan.

Have fun with your ice cream shop’s branding – marketing to the inner child in us all is a solid strategy for a whimsical luxury like ice cream. 

Restaurant Marketing Plan

Create a marketing plan that'll drive repeat business with this customizable marketing playbook template and interactive calendar.

Business Operations

The business operations section of a business plan includes information about the client experience, sales and inventory, accounting, management structure, and the supply chain for the frozen treats on your menu. Consider and define the role you plan to play in your business as well. 

An ice cream shop might seem like a simple business model, but this section is your ultimate opportunity to plan for your business but building an outline of how it will run from the daily to the quarterly. A detailed business operations section also helps you prepare for sales and expense projections. 

Restaurant POS Comparison Tool

A free, customizable Restaurant POS Comparison Tool to research and compare point of sale systems in one Excel spreadsheet or editable PDF.

Sales Forecasts and Operating Expenses

The operating expenses for an ice cream shop include the costs of labor, insurance, products, equipment, rent, marketing, etc. which should all be balanced against sales forecasts in this section of your business plan. 

Business plans commonly include a break-even analysis, which compares the sales required to break even with the cost of expenses each month. Investors will be interested in the potential for profit and loss in order to assess the risk of contributing to your business, but a profit and loss statement for a business that isn’t open yet requires some educated projections.

A cash flow analysis shows investors that the company can support itself without additional investments by detailing planned spending on labor, supplies, and operations. Consider how the costs unique to running an ice cream shop, such as having a freezer repair technician on retainer, balance at the end of each fiscal quarter. 

Financing and Loans

Perhaps you’ve decided on an ice cream shop because it both fills a market need and is easier on your personal finances than a full-service restaurant. Even so, it's crucial to carefully consider your finances and prepare to apply for any necessary lines of credit or loans.

This financing guide is a valuable resource for figuring out your funding options – it goes into detail about loan options from brick-and-mortar banks, alternative loans, Small Business Association (SBA) loans, merchant cash advances, business lines of credit, crowdfunding, asking family or friends, commercial real estate loans, equipment financing, and purchase order funding.

Once you have a plan to fund your ice cream shop, provide potential investors with information about other investors and detailed financial plans with projections of profit and expenses of your business.

Read this next

The complete guide to restaurant financing and loans.

Whether you’re opening a new restaurant, expanding your concept, or renovating within your existing four-walls, you’re going to need capital to make it all happen.

How to Present an Ice Cream Shop Business Plan

There are a few ways to prepare to talk to investors about your business plan and get them interested in your dream business. As you write and edit your plan, you’ll need to know it inside and out, and remember that the way you talk about your business should be tailored to the situation you find yourself in. For example, if you're at a networking event, you might want to have a 30-second elevator pitch prepared so that you can communicate everything you need to about your plan for an ice cream shop quickly. Be sure to include something exciting or make an opportunity for questions to keep people talking.

You can also send your business plan to investors and banks far and wide – put your concept and plan in the hands and minds of as many potential investors as possible. 

Once you secure a meeting with a potential investor or partner, you’ll want a more detailed presentation that presents all the key elements of your business plan – for an ice cream shop, that will likely include the focus of your ice cream menu and what kind of experiences you hope to provide.

It’s good to anticipate potential questions and prepare answers for questions you encounter for the first time. When networking, be honest and genuine, even if you don’t have a ready answer for each question that comes your way – investors will be interested in your charisma and savvy just as much as your ability to build a detailed plan. 

Related Ice Cream Resources

• Ice Cream Shop Name Ideas
• How to Open an Ice Cream Shop
• Ice Cream Shop Ideas and Concepts
• Ice Cream Shop Menu Ideas
• Ice Cream Shop Licenses and Permits
• Ice Cream Shop Design Ideas
• Ice Cream Shop Floor Plans

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How to Write an Ice Cream Shop Business Plan

• January 3, 2023
• Food & Beverage

Whether you’re looking to raise funding from private investors or to get a loan from a bank (like a SBA loan) for your ice cream shop, you will need to prepare a solid business plan.

In this article we go through, step-by-step, all the different sections you need in the business plan of your ice cream shop . Use this template to create a complete, clear and solid business plan that get you funded.

1. Executive Summary

The executive summary distills the details of your business plan into major points potential funders can easily grasp within a few minutes. It usually contains a brief description of your product, financial growth plans, vision and mission statement, target market , marketing strategy , funding ask, and your team.

Though the executive summary is the first and the most important section, it should normally be the last section you write because it will have the summary of different sections included in your business plan below.

Why do you need a business plan for an ice cream shop?

The purpose of a business plan is to secure funding through one of the following channels:

• Obtain bank financing or secure a loan from other lenders (such as a SBA loan )
• Obtain private investments from investment funds, angel investors, etc.
• Obtain a public or a private grant

How to write your ice cream shop’s executive summary?

Your executive summary shouldn’t be more than two pages and should grab and sustain the attention of whoever reads it. In most cases, how you present the information here determines how feasible your business appears to potential funders and if they will bother about the remaining pages. Remember, first impressions matter! Here are the major parts your executive summary should contain:

• Business Overview : here, you explain your business vision and goals, your products and pricing strategy . Also mention where your store is located, how big it is, whether it’s a sit-in or takeaway-only ice cream shop, etc.
• Market & competitive overview : here you must go in depth about the ice cream industry in your area (the city you intend to open your shop for example), the level of competition from other ice cream shops, and the demography of your target market (age, income level, gender, ethnicity, education, religion)
• Sales & marketing strategy : how will you reach your target market? What marketing channels will you use? What is your marketing budget?
• Management & people : what are the roles and responsibilities of every team member? What are their experiences? Who manages the team?
• Financial plan: how much profit and revenue do you expect in the next 5 years? When will you reach the break-even point and start making profits? You can include here a chart with your key financials (revenue, gross profit, net profit )
• Funding ask : what loan/investment/grant are you seeking? How much do you need? How long will this last?

Ice Cream Shop Financial Model

Download an expert-built 5-year Excel financial model for your business plan

2. Business Overview

Here, you shed more light on your ice cream shop concept while answering questions potential funders will likely ask. For instance:

• Why did you decide to open an ice cream shop today?
• Where is your shop located? Why did you choose that location?
• What is your business model: sit-in, takeaway ice cream shop or food truck?
• How many employees will you hire to run your shop?
• Will you specialize in a specific ice cream specialty? Will you offer other products (e.g. coffee, drinks, etc.)?
• What legal structure will you adopt for your business?

History of the project

Any business overview must start with explaining the history of the project. There are 2 components here:

• Passion & experience of the business owner
• Rationale behind starting a ice cream shop today

Passion & experience

You may or may not have prior experience. If you have experience, speak about it and how it will help you to run your business. For instance, you may have worked as a manager in one of the leading ice cream franchises in the country and you want to start your own.

Is there a certain problem (or perhaps, a set of problems) that your ice cream shop will try to solve? For example, the area where you want to operate may not have a full-service ice cream shop despite being located in a busy summer vacation area next to the shore.

But that’s not all! The market must be suitable for a business to exist and thrive. For instance, if you are trying to open a gelato foodtruck next to an already very successful and longstanding gelato ice cream shop, the business may not succeed. 

b) Business model

This section of the Business Overview should explain the model you want to adopt for your ice cream shop. For example:

• Will it be an independent or a franchise ice cream shop?
• Is this a seasonal or year-round business?
• Will it be a food truck or a brick-and-mortar location?
• Will you buy and remodel an existing ice cream shop, or will you have one built from the scratch?

c) Products

What ice cream products will you sell (Italian gelato vs. different flavors )? What additional products will you offer your customers to beat the competition (Milkshakes, sundaes, yogurt, etc.)? Will you have unique services ( custom-themed ice cream for events, outdoor catering, etc.)?

d) Target market

You need to define your target market to be able to sell to them. In other words: who is your ideal customer?

A few questions you must ask yourself is:

• How old are they?
• Are they families?
• Are they tourists or residents?

e) Pricing strategy

Your pricing strategy influences your key financials, so you must get it right. You don’t want to set prices so low that you almost run at a loss or so high that you alienate your target market.

We strongly recommend you include a pricing list here. While it may not be possible to provide a proper pricing table for all products that you will offer, it is still a great idea to provide a table that gives an overview of your pricing structure.

For example, you can provide an average price based on categories like shown below:

However, don’t go into extreme details here as you might lose investors’ interest. They just need the big picture to assess your business profitability: they will tie your pricing strategy with your financial projections later on. Keep details for the appendix instead.

f) Legal structure

Finally, your business overview section should specify what type of business structure you want. Is this a corporation or a partnership (LLC)? Who are the investors? How much equity percentage do they own? Is there a Board of Directors? If so, whom? Do they have experience in the industry?

3. Market Overview

A complete understanding of the market where you want to operate is important for the success of your business. That’s also something you must showcase in your business plan.

You must cover here 3 important areas:

• Industry size & growth : how big is the ice cream industry in your area? What is its growth rate (or decline rate) and what are the factors contributing to its growth or decline?
• Competition overview : how many competitors are there? How do they compare vs. your business? How can you differentiate yourself from them?
• Customer analysis : who is your target audience ? What type of ice creams do they prefer? What is their average spend per order? How frequently do they visit an ice cream shop?

a) Industry size & growth

How big is the ice cream industry in the us.

The overall US ice cream market was valued at $13.3 billion in 2020 , and is projected to be $15.8 billion by 2027 . This includes ice cream shops, yet the biggest part is retail ice cream (the ice cream you buy in a store).

Within the overall US ice cream market, ice cream shops represents $5.1 billion in 2022 (so approximately 1/3 of the overall ice cream industry).

Moreover, there were approximately 11,000 ice cream shops in the US in 2022: that’s an average annual turnover of $430,000 per shop..!

How big is the ice cream shop industry in your area?

After getting a clear picture of the ice cream shop industry in the US as a whole, narrow down to your location. It’s very likely that you won’t find the number anywhere (at least not for free). In that case, you can use our guide to estimate the TAM, SAM, and SOM for your business.

Here is an example of how to do it:

We already know the average annual turnover per ice cream shop is $430,000. Therefore, if the location where you will operate has a total of 15 ice cream shops, the ice cream shop industry in the area is worth about $6.5 million.

Yet, be careful with averages too: for example, Minnesota is ranked one of the least US states where ice cream consumption is low . You can’t compare the sales you’ll make in a city in Minnesota to a city in California, the US state that consumes the largest amount of ice cream.  

How fast is the ice cream shop industry growing in your area?

We know the US ice cream shop industry has increased by 0.6% from 2017 to 2022 . But what about the area where you want to open your shop?

US national averages are a great addition to your business plan, yet they don’t necessarily help to assess the ice cream shop industry where you want to open your store.

As you likely won’t find this information online, you can instead rely on the number of ice cream shops in the location as a proxy for market growth.

For example, if your city had only 14 ice cream shops in 2019 and 15 in 2022, you can assume that the average annual growth rate of the industry is about 2%.

b) Competition Overview

You’ll learn a lot of business practices if you study your competition : How do they acquire and retain customers? Where are they located? What type of ice cream do they sell? Etc.

For a better understanding, you can use a SWOT analysis to compare your risks and rewards with the competition. Here’s an example :

c) Customer Overview

Here, you need to show whoever looks through your business plan that you understand your target audience’s needs and preferences.

For example, here are a few questions you must ask yourself:

• Who is your target audience (age, demographics, etc.)?
• How do they prefer to consume ice cream (on-the-go vs. sit-in)? What do they complement ice cream with (drinks, cakes, cookies, etc.)?
• What ice cream flavors they want the most?

4. Sales & Marketing Strategy

This is the section of your business plan where you outline your customer acquisition strategy. Try to answer here the following questions:

• What is your Unique Selling Proposition (USP)?
• What are the different marketing strategies you will use?
• How do you intend to track the success of your marketing strategy?
• What is your CAC or customer acquisition cost?
• What is your marketing budget?
• What introductory promos and offers do you intend to provide for attracting new customers?

What marketing channels do ice cream shops use?

Even though ice cream sells itself, you still need to invest in marketing channels to increase sales. The standard marketing channels include:

• Billboards & signage
• Social media 
• Referral programs
• Partnerships with stores and restaurants
• Getting an ice cream truck to go to food festivals and public events
• Traditional media (radio and television) for franchises and chains

5. Management & People

You must address 2 things here:

• The management team and their experience/track record
• The organizational structure : different team members and who reports to whom?

Small businesses often fail because of managerial weaknesses. Thus, having a strong management team is vital. Highlight the experience and education of senior managers that you intend to hire to oversee your ice cream parlor.

Describe their duties, responsibilities, and roles. Also, highlight their previous experience and explain how they succeeded in their previous roles.

Organization Structure

Even if you haven’t already hired a pastry chef, bakery managers, shift leaders, serving staff, cooks, bakers, cashiers, and other relevant staff members, you must provide a chart of the organizational structure defining hierarchy and reporting lines.

Of course, the number of employees and their roles will vary greatly depending on the number of shops you operate, whether your ice cream parlor is independent of part of a franchise, and the concept (sit-in vs. takeaway vs. food truck).

6. Financial Plan

The financial plan is perhaps, with the executive summary, the most important section of any business plan for an ice cream shop.

Indeed, a solid financial plan tells lenders that your business is viable and can repay the loan you need from them. If you’re looking to raise equity from private investors, a solid financial plan will prove them your ice cream shop is an attractive investment.

There should be 2 sections to your financial plan section:

• The startup costs of your project (if you plan to start a new store, add a new location to your ice cream shop chain, etc.)
• The 5-year financial projections of your ice cream shop(s)

a) Startup Costs

Before we expand on 5-year financial projections in the following section, it’s always best practice to start with listing the startup costs of your project. For an ice cream shop, startup costs are all the expenses you incur before you start making sales. These expenses typically are:

• The acquisition of the real estate (if you buy)
• The lease deposit (if you rent)
• The renovation and equipment costs
• License & permits, business insurance, etc.

Of course, the startup costs depend on a number of factors, like the number of stores you plan to open, their size, the quality of the design and equipment, etc.

b) Financial Projections

In addition to startup costs, you will also need to build a solid 5-year financial model in the business plan of your ice cream shop.

Note that your financial projections should be built using a spreadsheet (e.g. Excel or Google Sheets) and presented in the form of tables and charts in your business plan.

As usual, keep it concise here and save details (for example detailed financial statements, financial metrics, key assumptions used for the projections) for the appendix instead.

Your financial projections should answer at least the following questions:

• How much revenue do you expect to generate over the next 5 years?
• When do you expect to break even?
• How much cash will you burn until you get there?
• What’s the impact of a change in pricing (say 10%) on your margins?
• What is your average customer acquisition cost?

You should include here your 3 financial statements (income statement, balance sheet and cash flow statement). This means you must forecast:

• The number of customers / orders over time ;
• Your expected revenue ;
• Operating costs to run the business ;
• Capex (cost to renovate / build your ice cream parlor, furniture and equipment, etc.)

When projecting your financials, make sure to sensitize sales volume (customers), pricing as well as the expenses (inventory, salaries, etc.). Indeed, a small change in these assumptions may have a significant impact on your revenues, and most importantly, your profits.

7. Use of Funds

This is the last section of the business plan of your ice cream shop. Now that we have explained what your business model is, what type of products you sell, how you get customers, etc., this section must now answer the following questions:

• How much funding do you need?
• What financial instrument(s) do you need: is this equity or debt, or even a free-money public grant?
• How long will this funding last?
• Where else does the money come from? If you apply for a SBA loan for example, where does the other part of the investment come from (your own capital, private investors?)

If you raise debt:

• What percentage of the total funding the loan represents?
• What is the corresponding Debt Service Coverage Ratio ?

If you raise equity

• What percentage ownership are you selling as part of this funding round?
• What is the corresponding valuation of your business?

Use of Funds

Any business plan for an ice cream shop should include a clear use of funds section. This is where you explain how the money will be spent.

Will you spend most of the loan / investment in paying your employees’ salaries and the COGS (inventory)? Or will it cover mostly the cost for acquiring the real estate and renovations?

For the use of funds, we also recommend using a pie chart like the one we have in our financial model template where we outline the main expenses categories as shown below.

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Ice Cream Shop Business Plan

Ever dreamed of owning an ice cream shop?

If yes, you’ve stumbled upon the coolest business idea. It’s time to elevate your entrepreneurial journey from sugary dreams to scoopable reality!

But before you start, there’s an important step to sweet success: drafting your business plan. Also, it requires careful planning, a keen idea about your market size, and sprinkles of creativity.

Not to worry; we’re here to help you with our ice cream shop business plan ! It is a strategic roadmap guiding you toward the vibrant, bustling ice cream parlor that you’ve always imagined.

In this guide, you can explore the essential elements you need to know for a well-crafted business plan that’s bringing your very own ice cream shop to life.

So, lace up your apron, and let’s delve into the art of crafting your ice cream shop business plan.

Key Takeaways

• Create an interesting executive summary that highlights your goals, marketing plan, and team expertise to draw potential investors.
• Conduct thorough market research and competitive analysis to better understand industry trends and customer needs.
• Mention your ice cream shop business descriptions to advertise your business and reach a wider audience.
• Build a strong online presence and an effective marketing plan to attract more customers.
• Keep a realistic and strategic financial plan to assess startup costs and secure funding resources for an ice cream business.
• Develop a delightful sample menu that represents unique ice cream offerings and encourages customers to explore different flavors.
• Use SWOT analysis tools to evaluate your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats for informed decision-making.

Ice Cream Industry Outlook

Before diving right into the guide to ice cream business plan, let’s go through some ice cream industry statistics and trends:

• The ice cream market revenue amounts to $19.13 billion in 2023, and the market is projected to rise annually by 3.64% (CAGR 2023-2028).
• The U.S. ice cream makers churned out 1.38 billion gallons of ice cream in 2022. The average American consumes roughly 20 pounds of ice cream or about 4 gallons, each year.
• For the ice cream market, volume is estimated to be 4.16 billion kg by 2028. It is expected to show a volume growth of 1.1% in 2024.
• The North American ice cream market size is projected at $22.63 billion in 2023; and is estimated to reach $26.52 billion by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 2.68% during the forecast period (2023-2029).
• The global ice cream market will reach $104.96 billion in 2029, up from $71.52 billion in 2021 due to the increasing cravings for ice cream.
• Chocolate, Cookies & cream, Vanilla, Strawberry, Buttered Pecan, and Chocolate Chip are the top ice cream flavors in the U.S.
• Non-dairy ice creams, plant-based ingredients, and low-calorie or no-sugar ice creams have gained popularity among health-conscious consumers compared to regular ice creams.

Key Components of an Ice Cream Business Plan

• Executive Summary
• Business Overview
• Market and Competitor Analysis
• Ice cream Menu
• Marketing Strategy
• Management Team
• Operational Plan
• Financial Plan

1. Executive Summary

An executive summary is a quick overview of your entire business plan. It should be clear, concise, and compelling as it attracts investors to delve further into your plan.

Start your summary with a brief description of your ice cream shop concept including the name, location, and type of ice cream shop you are running.

After that, try to outline a few important topics, from objectives and core values to a coherent vision for your brand, that will be explored in greater detail within the plan.

Clearly state your business’s unique selling proposition(USP), market opportunity, and target customers. Don’t forget to mention all the key members and financial projections of your ice cream parlor.

You can also add a 3-year profit forecast to emphasize the potential for profitability.

Lastly, conclude this section with an effective call to action for inviting potential investors or readers if they are curious about your ice cream shop.

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2. Business Overview

The business overview section compliments the executive summary and provides a quick look at your ice cream shop. Draft specific details about your business here.

First, introduce the ice cream shop’s business model, including ownership, legal structure(S-Corp, LLC or a sole proprietorship), and shop location.

Also, mention what type of business you are operating; for instance, it will be one of the below types of ice cream shop businesses:

• Self-service ice cream shop: Allows customers to fill their own containers with desired ice cream flavors and toppings.
• Ice cream truck: An easy way to reach more customers in different areas.
• Gourmet ice cream shop: Caters to customers seeking premium frozen desserts and high-quality experience.
• Franchise ice cream shop: Operates under the esteemed brand and follows the meticulous operational standards set by the franchisor.

Don’t forget to add a mission statement in this section, as it is a brief of your ice cream shop’s guiding principles. Here is an example of the mission statement for an ice cream store using Upmetrics:

Next, discuss a little bit more about your business background and how your ice cream shop works. Try to give answers for when you start your business and what are the long-term goals of your brand.

In addition, highlight any milestones you have accomplished, such as the number of customers served, positive reviews, new ice cream parlor openings, etc.

3. Market and Competitor Analysis

Launching an ice cream shop business demands a strategic roadmap and an ice cream shop industry analysis. So, take some time to go further and perform careful market research in your area.

Start this section by presenting a quick summary of the ice cream shop industry and define the local market size (in dollars), historical background, and growth potential.

With proper market research and industry analysis, you can assess that the market for ice cream shops is bustling with competition, going from self-serve frozen yogurt zones to dreamy ice cream parlors.

So, identify your target market demographics, including age, gender, income level, and preferences. Want help creating a buyer persona for your ice cream shop business?

Employ Upmetrics’ AI-powered Assistance now and write brief sections of your business plans. Follow the given prompt or revise it to make a bunch of buyer persona profiles for your target customers:

Explore the current landscape and assess key players to understand their strengths and weaknesses. Perform a thorough ice cream industry analysis to recognize direct and indirect competitors.

Direct competitors can be other ice cream shops, while frozen yogurt shops or dessert cafes can be indirect competitors.

Monitor their product offerings, pricing plan, and customer engagement approach. So, you need a strong, memorable, and coherent ice cream brand that addresses gaps in the market.

Conduct a SWOT analysis to find internal strengths & weaknesses of your ice cream shop and external opportunities & threats in the ice cream market. Based on that, outline unique selling points and competitive edge.

Not only that, you can also explain local government regulatory rules and emerging market trends that might impact the ice cream shop industry.

4. Ice cream Menu

Designing a sample ice cream menu is the most important asset for writing an ice cream shop business plan. It is a productive step in presenting your business plan to potential clients and investors.

Summarize the uniqueness of your offerings that set your brand apart from other ice cream shops. Start by listing all the flavors of ice creams, toppings, and specialty items your shop will offer. That might be:

• Classic flavors(Vanilla, Chocolate, Strawberry, Cookies and Cream, Butter Pecan, etc.)
• Signature flavors (Hazelnut Delight, Caramel Sensation, Cheesecake Bliss, Espresso Crunch, etc.)
• Seasonal Specials(Pumpkin Spice Delight, Apple Cinnamon Harvest, Lemonade Fizz Fling, etc.)
• Creative Cones(Bubblegum Burst Cone, Cinnamon Sugar Twist Cone)
• Ice cream floats
• frozen yogurt selections
• Customizable ice cream flights
• Ice cream cakes
• Sorbet and Sherbet options

Showcase that your ice cream products cater to a diverse customer base and ensure that there’s something for everyone. Clearly emphasize innovative flavors and unique combinations to grab customer attention.

Add creative names and descriptions to enhance the overall appeal of your menu. Use vibrant language to portray delightful flavors, the aroma of freshly made waffle cones, and any special features.

Implement a transparent and strategic pricing structure for delightful explorations that reflect the quality and craftsmanship behind each product.

Check the below example from Upmetrics to draft your ice cream shop product offerings:

You might enclose details about whether you will sell ice cream cakes from a local vendor or make your own, and what kind of ingredients, dairy products, flavorings, and serving methods you will feature.

If applicable, consider including any interactive elements into the menu, such as QR codes for online videos revealing the making process of irresistible offerings or customer testimonials.

5. Marketing Strategy

Demonstrate a comprehensive marketing plan to attract a diverse customer base. Develop a multifaceted approach for brand promotion and customer engagement.

Think about the key elements mentioned below to add in your sales and marketing plan:

Establish a unique personality of an ice cream store via a professional website and brand logo. Highlight your shop atmosphere, ice cream offerings, artisanal flavors,  customer reviews, and locally sourced ingredients.

Social Media platforms

Use the power of social media(Instagram, Facebook, Twitter) to present your ice cream creations. Regularly publish visually appealing content, such as high-quality images, catchy captions, and promotional activities to maximize reach.

Offline Advertising

Effectively reach your target audience using offline channels. Use traditional advertising methods like brochures, newspapers, and social gatherings. Also, get in touch with the local community through outreach initiatives.

Events and influencer collaborations

Participate in local events or carnivals to raise brand visibility. Collaborate with influencers who align with your brand value and attract their followers to your ice cream shop.

Promotions and loyalty programs

Involve special discounts, buy one get one free offer or seasonal promotions to draw new customers and retain existing ones. Also, introduce loyalty programs to offer rewards for frequent patrons.

Take a reference from the below example written using our AI assistant, describing marketing strategy for ice cream shops:

Pence’s Frozen Custard will use multiple methods to approach its target markets. Since our most difficult task will be attracting customers for that first tasting, we have a two-tiered approach. First, a mass mailing campaign will create customer awareness and generate trials. This will include coupons and our “Grand Opening” offer: with a coupon, your first dessert at Pence’s in April or May is free. The initial cost of this offer will be more than offset by repeat sales later. After this initial campaign, our marketing strategy will focus on our two target markets separately.

For 18-24-year-olds, Pence’s will distribute flyers on campus and at the bus station. We will also seek permission to place fliers on the doors of apartment rentals and apartment complexes. To further reach the “Town and Gown” niche of this market, we will purchase radio ads on specific radio stations that feature R&B music.

To reach the “first families” more effectively, we plan to sponsor events and help out with local elementary schools and after-school activities. Such plans include: sponsoring a little league team; offering a tour of the shop to elementary school students; and giving coupons and promotional information to the children to bring their families in.

All of these marketing campaigns will be supplemented by ongoing “brand awareness” campaigns, with advertisements in the local paper, interviews with the college newspaper (as the owner is a graduate), and fliers posted at popular local events. We will highlight our community service involvement as part of our “good neighbor” approach to doing business in this area.

6. Management Team

Allowing your readers or investors to know about your management team will help them have a clear idea of who is operating your ice cream shop.

So, mention the ice cream shop’s general manager, marketing team, or some combination of ice cream confectioner and financier in this section. Here is an illustration of a strong management team with the help of Upmetrics:

Highlight each individual’s specific roles and responsibilities, including their skills and prior experience relevant to ice cream businesses. If so, mention those experiences in your business plan to show their ability.

Doing so is very important to prevent any misunderstandings once the business is up and running.

Next, describe the compensation plan or salary structure in this section. This can help key stakeholders to ascertain how much percentage of the revenues is allocated to salaries. Refer to below as an example:

Not only that, you can also state advisory board members by including 2 -3 individuals who act like mentors to your business. They would direct you with strategic guidance and add credibility to your business idea.

7. Operational Plan

As specific information on day-to-day operations is a map for achieving business objectives and customer satisfaction, it’s time to emphasize a precise operational plan for an ice cream shop business.

Begin with a quick intro that summarizes the pivotal role of everyday operations and the supply chain for the frozen treats on your menu. Then, give a detailed overview of daily activities that navigate your business.

Specify the staffing requirements for your shop, defining the number of front-of-house and back-of-house associates. From scoopers to kitchen staff and cashiers, mention their roles and responsibilities.

Consider some factors like peak hours and seasonal variations to determine staffing levels. Here is an example from Upmetrics depicting the personnel plan for ice cream shops:

Facility Management

To ensure a smooth operation, discuss the daily facility management tasks such as opening and closing routines, maintaining schedules for equipment & fixtures, and making ice cream and serving customers.

Technology/software

Leverage technology/software for daily operations, including point-of-sale systems for order processing, inventory management for ingredient level tracking, and CRM tools for personalized communication or feedback.

Customer experience

Take specific steps to ensure a fun and safe customer experience. Involve staff training for a welcoming environment and cleaning protocols for food safety measures and contribute to a favorable customer experience.

8. Financial Plan

For a successful ice cream shop business, you will need a well-structured and in-depth financial plan with a realistic financial projection.

It is the most important section for investors as it offers a clear picture of the ice cream shop’s projected profitability, fiscal growth, and cash generation capacity.

While developing a financial plan, you can highlight the income statement, cash flow statement, balance sheet, break-even analysis, and funding needs for 3-5 years.

In this section, you need to make a few assumptions. it will greatly affect the financial forecasts of your business. Refer to Upmetrics’ template to make important assumptions for your ice cream shop business:

Define all the necessary components explained below in your business plan:

Income statement

An income statement is generally known as a profit and loss statement, or P&L, showing the net profit of your ice cream shop business by deducting expenses from total earnings.

Here is an example of a projected profit & loss statement for an ice cream shop business using Upmetrics:

Cash flow statement

This statement enables you to notice how much money you need to start or grow your ice cream shop business and ensure that you never run out of money.

Sometimes, you get profits but still face financial issues that could lead to bankruptcy. Thus, you will require suitable cash flow planning to avoid such cases.

Also, don’t forget to maintain this statement even for certain months before earning profits.

Balance sheet

The balance sheet indicates your ice cream shop business’s net worth at a specific point in time. It classifies all your ice cream shop’s financial data into three parts: assets, liabilities, and equity.

Typically, a balance sheet is prepared once a year. For your ice cream shop business plan, create a projected balance sheet that emphasizes the income statement and cash flow projections.

All the above financial factors can help you specify the break-even point and funding needs. Evaluate the funding resources, including bank loans, SBA-guaranteed loans, angel investors, and personal savings.

However, calculating all the financial statements from scratch can be challenging. But not to worry; here is a simple solution.

Use our robust financial forecasting tool to develop all financial aspects for launching your own ice cream shop business.

Get Your Free Ice Cream Parlor Business Plan Template

Are you ready to start writing an ice cream shop business plan? And want to get help with your business plan? Well, here you go. Download our free ice cream parlor business plan pdf now.

This expertly crafted template is designed with ice cream businesses in mind. With a step-by-step guide and example, this template assists you in simplifying your planning process and directs you with each crucial step.

Import data into your editor and start writing an ice cream shop business plan.

The Quickest Way to turn a Business Idea into a Business Plan

Fill-in-the-blanks and automatic financials make it easy.

Write Your Business Plan in Minutes with AI

Now, it’s time to craft a blueprint to turn your vision of owning an ice cream shop into reality. Launch your ice cream shop business confidently with the power of Upmetrics AI assistant .

Whether you are an experienced entrepreneur or a newbie to the business world, our innovative tools and customized business plan templates empower you to write your business plan in minutes.

Don’t let the complexity of business planning hold you back. Grab the opportunity and create a pathway for your sweet venture with Upmetrics!

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Frequently asked questions, what are the key components of an ice cream shop business plan.

Writing a professional business plan for an ice cream shop involves the following key components:

• Executive summary
• Company overview
• Market and industry analysis
• Competitor and customer analysis
• Sample menu for ice creams
• Sales and marketing plan
• Management team
• Operational plan
• Financial projections

Where can I find an ice cream shop business plan template?

There are various online platforms where you can find an ice cream shop business plan template. Consider reputable sources like Upmetrics, which offers 400+ customizable business plan templates for your specific needs.

How long should an ice cream shop business plan be?

Typically, the length of an ideal ice cream shop business plan is around 15-35 pages. It should be clear and concise yet comprehensive, covering all the essential elements of your business. The business plan length can vary based on the audience.

What should I do with my finished ice cream shop business plan?

Once your ice cream shop business plan is finished, use it as a live document. Send it to the potential investors and show your marketing & operational decisions. Regularly revisit and update it as your business grows.

What are some common mistakes made when writing an ice cream shop business plan?

Avoid below 7 common mistakes while writing an ice cream shop business plan:

• Lack of thorough ice cream shop industry and market research
• Overlooking financial projections
• Poor competition analysis
• Neglecting the importance of location
• Lack of differentiation in product offerings and menu
• Ignoring effective marketing strategies
• Avoid prioritizing customer satisfaction

About the Author

Vinay Kevadiya

Vinay Kevadiya is the founder and CEO of Upmetrics, the #1 business planning software. His ultimate goal with Upmetrics is to revolutionize how entrepreneurs create, manage, and execute their business plans. He enjoys sharing his insights on business planning and other relevant topics through his articles and blog posts. Read more

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Home » Blog » Small Business » How To Start An Ice Cream Shop In 9 Easy Steps

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How To Start An Ice Cream Shop In 9 Easy Steps

Want to open an ice cream business? Learn how much it might cost, the steps you should take, and everything else you might need to know to start your ice cream business journey.

WRITTEN & RESEARCHED BY

Staff Writer

When you start an ice cream business, it’s best to know what you’ll need to operate your business smoothly and with minimal interruptions. From writing an original business plan to finding a point of sale system, there are many things to consider. 

Don’t know where to begin? Let’s examine everything you need to know about starting an ice cream business.

Table of Contents

Why Start An Ice Cream Shop?

How will your ice cream business operate, 9 steps to start your ice cream business, where to find funding for your ice cream shop, are you ready to start your own ice cream business, starting an ice cream shop: faqs.

Ice cream is more than just a classic dessert — it’s a profitable enterprise.

Ice cream sales have been going up since 2022, with big brands Tillamook and Haagen-Dazs seeing notable growth. Fortune Business Insights projects that the total value of the global ice cream market will come out to a whopping $104.96 billion in 2029, which is a 35% increase from $73.61 billion in 2021. Further, experts state that ice cream shops can expect a generous profit margin of 25% . (Compare that with the average of 5% for restaurants and 10-15% for bars.)

Consumers want the comfort and delicacy that ice cream brings, and right now, they’re especially open to unique flavor experiences and health-conscious offerings. The data suggests they’re actively seeking out smaller ice cream businesses to support. You may even be surprised to hear that ice cream shops are recession-proof businesses.

You’ll have plenty of things to consider as you’re getting ready to run your ice cream shop.

• Will You Have A Brick-And-Mortar Shop Or A Food Truck? There are a fair amount of pros and cons between both. A truck costs less to start up, and you have the freedom that comes with mobility. But you also have to consider the extra liabilities by putting your business on wheels, such as potential car accidents and vehicle repairs. (Selling online is an option, too, but it’s incredibly difficult and resource-consuming for the ice cream business—it’s wise for first-time owners to start small and local.)
• Will You Make Your Ice Cream In-House Or Off-Site? If you’re making it on-site, you will need the space to craft and store your product for long periods. Making it off-site means you’ll have to factor extra costs, such as rent and transportation, into your overhead.
• Will You Operate Seasonally Or Year-Round?  Summer tends to be the most popular time to sell ice cream, but if you rent and insure a physical storefront, you may want to brainstorm creative ways to keep sales steady during off-seasons.
• What Types Of Ice Cream Will You Serve?  This will determine where you’ll source ingredients, how you’ll organize and promote your menu, and may even dictate which licenses you need. Along these lines, you should decide early on if you want a self-serve bar with toppings or set recipes for specialty items. (Or both!)
• Will You Tailor Your Desserts To A Specific Audience Or Theme?  You can opt for traditional, family-friendly branding or choose a style that’s more in line with college students or adults. While at university, I enjoyed Saffron and Rose for their Middle Eastern-inspired flavors and Afters Ice Cream for its Rick and Morty-themed interior design at the time. As you make a marketing plan for your business, have an idea of your target audience.

Now, let’s get into specific steps you can take to open your first ice cream shop.

Step 1: Make A Business Plan

Researching your local market and knowing your target audience comes first. And remember, you won’t be without competitors — if you want to set your ice cream’s prices over theirs, you’ll have to find unique ways to set your business apart and justify the cost. A solid business plan will give you direction to help your business succeed.

The essential points you should touch on in your business plan are:

• The business objectives  you want to meet, such as financial goals and hopes for growing your business
• Determining  who your ideal customers are
• The kind of experience you want your customers to have and why they should pay you for it
• Your ice cream shop’s advantages and disadvantages compared to its competitors
• Establishing a realistic financial summary,  including startup and maintenance costs, and how your  marketing strategy  fits into that

All of this will affect the choices you make. If your ice cream shop will be located in a busy downtown area, you may want to brand it as a trendy spot to wind down and enjoy special treats. And should you want to profit off of selling exclusively vegan soft serves, your business plan is your chance to flesh out your specific cost and marketing challenges.

If you’re aiming to be a sole owner with a straightforward business idea, then a one-page business plan may be the right choice.

Step 2: Find Funding

Launching your business will cost you. Remember the startup costs you’ve recorded in your business plan? Use that to guide you as you search for necessary funding.

Industrial kitchen equipment isn’t cheap — it’ll cost tens of thousands of dollars. You’ll need startup funding to get the ball rolling. Funding options for start-ups and new businesses can be from crowdsourcing like Kickstarter or GoFundMe (which people have used to fund their business idea).

Another option: Look for small business loans through reputable lenders .

Step 3: Choose A Location

A great location can make or break your business. Finding a spot accessible to nearby foot traffic and residents will put you in contact with more customers and help drive sales. Do your best to choose a location that’s nearby or within:

• Town centers and shopping centers
• Schools/universities
• Restaurants
• Local attractions such as beaches, museums, movie theaters, and parks

Your customers may be more likely to sit and enjoy their treat instead of taking it with them in the car and heading home. Having a spot that’s comfortable and accessible to parking is a huge plus.

Step 4: Register Your Business

Whether you’re operating as a sole proprietorship or an LLC (don’t know the difference between the two? Read our guide), you will need to register your business with your local government, at the very least.

Any business entity that isn’t a sole proprietorship will also need to register with the state. If your state or local government doesn’t have an online portal, you’ll have to acquire and submit physical forms through your secretary of state or local government tax offices.

Most businesses will need an employer identification number, or EIN , for federal tax purposes.

This will help the government keep track of the taxes you owe, such as income tax, employment taxes (e.g., Medicare and social security), and self-employment tax depending on your business structure. You can apply for an EIN through the IRS for free online.

Step 5: Get Licenses & Permits

Food handler permits will be necessary for you and your employees, and every ice cream shop will need a business license to remain legally compliant. Unless you’re operating in Delaware, New Hampshire, Oregon, or Montana, a seller’s permit is also required since you will be taxed on your product’s sales.

Beyond those necessary licenses and permits, you may also need:

• a mobile food vendor permit  if you’re selling from a food truck
• a liquor license to sell boozy ice cream, milkshakes, and popsicles
• a DBA registration if you want to operate under a different business name
• a  retail food establishment permit  and building health permit  if you’re selling ice cream from a physical store

Step 6: Find Business Software

Thankfully, numerous software exists today that mitigate the challenges of running a food establishment.

The ones you’ll need for your day-to-day operations include:

• Inventory software to manage and track your stock, orders, and product.
• A solid point of sale (POS) system to receive customer payments.
• Payroll software to accurately and compliantly manage your employees’ pay.
• Reliable accounting software to keep tabs on your business financials.

Step 7: Hire Employees

One of the biggest benefits of an ice cream shop is that it doesn’t require a large staff to operate. Still, there are valid concerns that come with hiring employees.

You’ll need an EIN for your business before you hire your first employee.

Running an ice cream shop won’t come without physical risks, either, so you’ll want to invest in workers’ compensation insurance should an employee get injured on the job.

Wondering how to get your first employees? Here’s our guide to finding employees in five easy steps.

Step 8: Prepare For Launch

Your opening is your opportunity to leave an amazing first impression on your customers and the community. But if you don’t create a buzz beforehand, you know the saying about the tree falling in the forest.

Leverage your resources to stir up excitement before the big day. Is there a farmers’ market close to your shop ? Snag a booth and dish out samples with business cards. It might surprise you that customers want to be contacted by businesses they like, so do your best to integrate text and email marketing strategies into your launch prep.

And don’t neglect the power of social media (like TikTok) to help spread word of mouth and build appeal.

Once you’ve got enough people interested, consider a soft launch (or two). This is your chance to make sure everything’s ready before your grand opening.

Step 9: Grow Your Business

Should everything go well, is opening another location in your sights? Maybe you want to eventually start a franchise.

According to the US Chamber of Commerce, tell-tale signs that you’re ready for growth are:

• You have a solid team of employees
• You’re experiencing more demand than you can physically provide for
• Your customer base is expanding
• You’re meeting your business metrics
• You’ve defined your process

You’ll need a good bank account to hold your cash. Use a high-yield business savings account to get the most out of your savings.

The importance of funding can’t be stressed enough.

Businesses require capital to start. Even if you’re already sitting on a personal fortune you’re ready to spend on a venture, financial assistance can seriously mitigate the risks of potential losses.

Multiple funding options are available to you.

A business loan can give you the financial resources you need to test recipes, secure your location, buy inventory and equipment, and have payment ready for your first employees. Equipment loans , in particular, will help you purchase the tools you need to make your ice cream.

However, new entrepreneurs may find it harder to acquire loans since an established history of business credit is one of the main things lenders consider.

Business credit cards , personal loans , and crowdfunding (checkout types and possible incentives) are other options to consider.

The SBA can assist with funding your business, too.

How Much Does It Cost To Open An Ice Cream Shop?

Experts suggest that starting an ice cream shop can cost between $20,000 and $60,000.

Expect to pay even more if you’re buying a building to do business in and plan on investing in brand-new equipment.

Ultimately, the cost will depend on factors such as your location, whether you’re renting or buying your storefront or truck, the business licenses you’re required to have (fair warning — liquor licenses and liquor liability insurance , in particular, are especially pricy), and how much inventory you’ll need to start.

Funding Options For Your Ice Cream Business

Looking for more info on where to find funding options?

We’ve researched the best small business loans and the best banks to get business loans .

If credit is a concern, it’s possible to get business loans with bad credit, and some loans don’t  require a credit check.

An ice cream shop can be profitable, but starting your business without the right action plan will inevitably cost you.

Now that you know more about the steps you should take and how to get funding, you should have a clearer sense of direction and more confidence in navigating the tricky startup process. Go out there and put a smile on your customer’s faces.

Congratulations on making it this far, and best of luck with your venture!

How profitable is an ice cream shop?

An ice cream shop can be quite profitable, considering how low-risk it is. Average profit margins come out to 25%. Other factors depend on how big your business in, where it’s located, and how many employees you have.

How do I start a small ice cream business?

To start a small ice cream business, you need to draft a business plan, invest in the right kitchen equipment, find a great location, rent or buy a building or truck, test your recipes, and acquire the necessary business licenses.

Do ice cream shops make money in the winter?

Ice cream shops typically make less money in the winter compared to other seasons. This could be an opportunity for you to sell ice cream to take home or upsell other products such as tea and coffee.

Is ice cream recession proof?

It’s safe to say that ice cream is recession-proof . The global ice cream industry has seen a noticeable increase in value over time, and families would prefer to go out for desserts such as ice cream rather than regular meals during economic slumps.

Can you make a lot of money owning an ice cream shop?

Experts state that you can expect gross profits between $20,000 and $49,000 a year on average for an ice cream shop. But you can make even more if you have a knack for marketing and driving sales.

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Ice Cream Shop Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Ice Cream Shop Business Plan

Over the past 20+ years, we have helped over 10,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans to start and grow their ice cream shop businesses. On this page, we will first give you some background information with regards to the importance of business planning. We will then go through an ice cream shop business plan template step-by-step so you can create your plan today.

Download our Ultimate Business Plan Template here >

What is an Ice Cream Shop Business Plan?

A business plan provides a snapshot of your ice cream shop business as it stands today, and lays out your growth plan for the next five years. It explains your business goals and your strategy for reaching them. It also includes market research to support your plans.

Why You Need a Business Plan for an Ice Cream Shop

If you’re looking to start an ice cream shop business, or grow your existing ice cream shop business, you need a business plan. A business plan will help you raise funding, if needed, and plan out the growth of your ice cream shop business in order to improve your chances of success. Your ice cream shop business plan is a living document that should be updated annually as your company grows and changes.

Funding Sources for Ice Cream Shop Businesses

With regards to funding, the main sources of funding for an ice cream shop business are personal savings, credit cards, bank loans and angel investors. With regards to bank loans, banks will want to review your business plan and gain confidence that you will be able to repay your loan and interest. To acquire this confidence, the loan officer will not only want to confirm that your financials are reasonable, but they will also want to see a professional plan. Such a plan will give them the confidence that you can successfully and professionally operate a business.

The second most common form of funding for an ice cream shop business is angel investors. Angel investors are wealthy individuals who will write you a check. They will either take equity in return for their funding, or, like a bank, they will give you a loan.

Finish Your Business Plan Today!

If you want to start an ice cream shop business or expand your current one, you need a business plan. Below are links to each section of your ice cream shop business plan template:

Executive Summary

Your executive summary provides an introduction to your business plan, but it is normally the last section you write because it provides a summary of each key section of your plan.

The goal of your Executive Summary is to quickly engage the reader. Explain to them the type of ice cream shop business you are operating and the status. For example, are you a startup, do you have an ice cream shop business that you would like to grow, or are you operating a chain of ice cream shop businesses?

Next, provide an overview of each of the subsequent sections of your plan. For example, give a brief overview of the ice cream shop industry. Discuss the type of ice cream shop business you are operating. Detail your direct competitors. Give an overview of your target customers. Provide a snapshot of your marketing plan. Identify the key members of your team. And offer an overview of your financial plan.  

Company Analysis

In your company analysis, you will detail the type of ice cream shop business you are operating.

For example, you might operate one of the following types of ice cream shop businesses:

• Self serve ice cream shop : this type of ice cream shop business allows customers to fill their own containers with desired ice cream flavors and toppings.
• Ice cream truck: ice cream trucks are a convenient way to reach more customers in different areas.
• Gourmet ice cream shop: this type of ice cream shop caters to customers seeking gourmet flavors and a high-quality experience.

In addition to explaining the type of ice cream shop business you will operate, the Company Analysis section of your business plan needs to provide background on the business.

Include answers to question such as:

• When and why did you start the business?
• What milestones have you achieved to date? Milestones could include the number of customers served, number of positive reviews, amount of monthly revenue etc.
• Your legal structure. Are you incorporated as an S-Corp? An LLC? A sole proprietorship? Explain your legal structure here.

Industry Analysis

In your industry analysis, you need to provide an overview of the ice cream shop.

While this may seem unnecessary, it serves multiple purposes.

First, researching the ice cream shop industry educates you. It helps you understand the market in which you are operating. 

Secondly, market research can improve your strategy, particularly if your research identifies market trends.

The third reason for market research is to prove to readers that you are an expert in your industry. By conducting the research and presenting it in your plan, you achieve just that.

The following questions should be answered in the industry analysis section of your ice cream shop business plan:

• How big is the ice cream shop industry (in dollars)?
• Is the market declining or increasing?
• Who are the key competitors in the market?
• Who are the key suppliers in the market?
• What trends are affecting the industry?
• What is the industry’s growth forecast over the next 5 – 10 years?
• What is the relevant market size? That is, how big is the potential market for your ice cream shop business? You can extrapolate such a figure by assessing the size of the market in the entire country and then applying that figure to your local population.

Customer Analysis

The customer analysis section of your ice cream shop business plan must detail the customers you serve and/or expect to serve.

The following are examples of customer segments: children, parents, teenagers, and restaurateurs.

As you can imagine, the customer segment(s) you choose will have a great impact on the type of ice cream shop you operate. Clearly, parents would want different service options and would respond to different marketing promotions than teenagers, for example.

Try to break out your target customers in terms of their demographic and psychographic profiles. With regards to demographics, include a discussion of the ages, genders, locations and income levels of the customers you seek to serve. Because most ice cream shops primarily serve customers living in their same city or town, such demographic information is easy to find on government websites.

Psychographic profiles explain the wants and needs of your target customers. The more you can understand and define these needs, the better you will do in attracting and retaining your customers.

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Competitive Analysis

Your competitive analysis should identify the indirect and direct competitors your business faces and then focus on the latter.

Direct competitors are other ice cream shops. 

Indirect competitors are other options that customers have to purchase from that aren’t direct competitors. This includes grocery shops, convenience stores, and ice cream vending machines or kiosks. You need to mention such competition to show you understand that not everyone who wants ice cream will go to an ice cream shop.

With regards to direct competition, you want to describe the other ice cream shop businesses with which you compete. Most likely, your direct competitors will be ice cream shops located very close to your location.

For each such competitor, provide an overview of their businesses and document their strengths and weaknesses. Unless you once worked at your competitors’ businesses, it will be impossible to know everything about them. But you should be able to find out key things about them such as:

• What types of customers do they serve?
• What types of flavors do they offer?
• What is their pricing (premium, low, etc.)?
• What are they good at?
• What are their weaknesses?

With regards to the last two questions, think about your answers from the customers’ perspective. And don’t be afraid to ask your competitors’ customers what they like most and least about them.

The final part of your competitive analysis section is to document your areas of competitive advantage. For example:

• Will you provide more ice cream flavors?
• Will you provide services that your competitors don’t offer?
• Will you provide better customer service?
• Will you offer better pricing?

Think about ways you will outperform your competition and document them in this section of your plan.  

Marketing Plan

Traditionally, a marketing plan includes the four P’s: Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. For a ice cream shop business plan, your marketing plan should include the following:

Product : In the product section, you should reiterate the type of ice cream shop that you documented in your Company Analysis. Then, detail the specific products you will be offering. For example, in addition to ice cream, will you provide comfortable seating, table service, or on-site entertainment?

Price : Document the prices you will offer and how they compare to your competitors. Essentially in the product and price sub-sections of your marketing plan, you are presenting the services you offer and their prices.

Place : Place refers to the location of your ice cream shop. Document your location and mention how the location will impact your success. For example, is your ice cream shop located in a busy retail district, shopping plaza, mall, etc. Discuss how your location might provide a steady stream of customers. 

Promotions : The final part of your ice cream shop marketing plan is the promotions section. Here you will document how you will drive customers to your location(s). The following are some promotional methods you might consider:

• Advertising in local papers and magazines
• Reaching out to local websites 
• Social media marketing
• Local radio advertising

Operations Plan

While the earlier sections of your business plan explained your goals, your operations plan describes how you will meet them. Your operations plan should have two distinct sections as follows.

Everyday short-term processes include all of the tasks involved in running your ice cream shop, including making ice cream, serving customers, and maintaining equipment.

Long-term goals are the milestones you hope to achieve. These could include the dates when you expect to serve your 1000th customer, or when you hope to reach $X in revenue. It could also be when you expect to open a new ice cream shop location or launch an ice cream shop franchise.  

Management Team

To demonstrate your ice cream shop business’ ability to succeed, a strong management team is essential. Highlight your key players’ backgrounds, emphasizing those skills and experiences that prove their ability to grow a company. 

Ideally you and/or your team members have direct experience in managing ice cream shop businesses. If so, highlight this experience and expertise. But also highlight any experience that you think will help your business succeed.

If your team is lacking, consider assembling an advisory board. An advisory board would include 2 to 8 individuals who would act like mentors to your business. They would help answer questions and provide strategic guidance. If needed, look for advisory board members with experience in managing ice cream shops or successfully running small businesses.  

Financial Plan

Your financial plan should include your 5-year financial statement broken out both monthly or quarterly for the first year and then annually. Your financial statements include your income statement, balance sheet and cash flow statements.

Income Statement : an income statement is more commonly called a Profit and Loss statement or P&L. It shows your revenues and then subtracts your costs to show whether you turned a profit or not.

In developing your income statement, you need to devise assumptions. For example, will you serve 500 customers per month or 1,000? And will sales grow by 2% or 10% per year? As you can imagine, your choice of assumptions will greatly impact the financial forecasts for your business. As much as possible, conduct research to try to root your assumptions in reality.

Balance Sheets : Balance sheets show your assets and liabilities. While balance sheets can include much information, try to simplify them to the key items you need to know about. For instance, if you spend $50,000 on building out your ice cream shop, this will not give you immediate profits. Rather it is an asset that will hopefully help you generate profits for years to come. Likewise, if a bank writes you a check for $50,000, you don’t need to pay it back immediately. Rather, that is a liability you will pay back over time.

Cash Flow Statement : Your cash flow statement will help determine how much money you need to start or grow your business, and make sure you never run out of money. What most entrepreneurs and business owners don’t realize is that you can turn a profit but run out of money and go bankrupt. For example, let’s say a local restaurant owner approached you with a $25,000 contract to provide ice cream for their restaurant. Let’s further assume the contract would cost you $25,000 to fulfill in terms of increased staffing costs and supplies. Well, in most cases, you would have to pay that $25,000 now for employee salaries, equipment, etc. But let’s say the company didn’t pay you for 180 days. During that 180-day period, you could run out of money.

In developing your Income Statement and Balance Sheets be sure to include several of the key costs needed in starting or growing a ice cream shop business:

• Location build-out including design fees, construction, etc.
• Cost of equipment like dipping cabinets, walk-in refrigerators, and blenders
• Payroll or salaries paid to staff
• Business insurance
• Taxes and permits
• Legal expenses

Attach your full financial projections in the appendix of your plan along with any supporting documents that make your plan more compelling. For example, you might include your location lease or a blueprint of your shop.   Summary Putting together a business plan for your ice cream shop is a worthwhile endeavor. If you follow the template above, by the time you are done, you will truly be an expert. You will really understand the ice cream shop industry, your competition, and your customers. You will have developed a marketing plan and will really understand what it takes to launch and grow a successful ice cream shop.

Ice Cream Shop Business Plan FAQs

What is the easiest way to complete my ice cream shop business plan.

Growthink's Ultimate Business Plan Template allows you to quickly and easily complete your Ice Cream Shop Business Plan.

Where Can I Download an Ice Cream Business Plan PDF?

You can download our ice cream business plan PDF here.

What is the Goal of a Business Plan's Executive Summary?

The goal of your Executive Summary is to quickly engage the reader. Explain to them the type of ice cream shop you are operating and the status; for example, are you a startup, do you have an ice cream shop that you would like to grow, or are you operating a chain of ice cream shops?

  OR, Let Us Develop Your Plan For You Since 1999, Growthink has developed business plans for thousands of companies who have gone on to achieve tremendous success.

Click here to see how Growthink’s professional business plan consulting services can create your business plan for you.  

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10 Best Ice Cream Franchises in USA in 2023

American ice cream franchises are known and loved all over the world. The segment incorporates a lot of various concepts and products. The industry includes gelato, frozen yoghurt, hard ice-cream, snow cone, shakes and sundaes. As for concepts, there are ice-cream parlour, ice-cream event, ice cream truck and ice cream kiosk franchises. The segment also involves quick services restaurants which have drive through and walk-up service windows, walk-in format, app ordering, etc. Ice cream business is especially profitable in summer. However, in order to avoid seasonality some brands offer along with ice-cream fast food, coffee, tea or other desserts. If you dream of your own business which will deliver moments of delight to people and bring a good profit to you, consider our list of ice cream franchises for sale. These are reputable brands with years of experience on the market. They offer their franchisees a proven business model, successful marketing and management, support, and trainings.

Here are the best 10 ice cream franchises in the USA

Baskin-robbins.

Founded in: 1945 Franchising since: 1948 Franchise units: 6,700+ Worldwide Initial investment: $93,550 - $401,800 Royalty Fees: 5,9%

Baskin Robbins is The world’s largest chain of ice cream shops with more than 6,700 locations in nearly 50 countries. Baskin-Robbins, one of the biggest franchises in the world's Ice Cream, a specialist in the Premium Ice Cream with a variety of flavors. Communities around the world have enjoyed a wide variety of treats Baskin-Robbins high value.

Handel's Homemade Ice Cream

Founded in: 1945 Franchising since: 1989 Franchise units: 40+ Initial investment: $220,000 - $680,000 Royalty Fees: 6%

Handel's Homemade Ice Cream & Yogurt, founded by Alice Handel in 1945 in Youngstown, Ohio, is a popular ice cream company franchise which operates 50 corporate and franchise stores in 10 states. Their ice cream is made fresh daily on premises at each location and the company promises they will continue to maintain the quality that has made Handel’s Ice Cream a family tradition for generations and generations to come with a steady, controlled growth. Through their franchise owner network, Handel's Franchise Team can assist new and existing franchisees with the support services for operations, marketing and training.

Dairy Queen

Founded in: 1940 Franchising since: 1944 Franchise units: 7,000+ Worldwide Initial investment: $1,083,525 - $1,850,425 Initial Franchise Fee: $35,000 Ongoing Royalty Fee: 4% Ad Royalty Fee: $5 - 6%

Dairy Queen, often abbreviated DQ, is a chain of soft serve ice cream and fast-food restaurants owned by International Dairy Queen, Inc., a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway Inc. International Dairy Queen, Inc., also owns Orange Julius and Karmelkorn. Food franchising had yet to exist, but the Dairy Queen® product’s rapid-growth potential made the process a piece of cake. Today, there are more than 6,800 restaurants in the United States, Canada, and 27 other countries.

Hershey's Ice Cream

Founded in: 1984 Franchising since: 1980 Franchise Fee: No

Hershey's Ice Cream, founded by Jacob Hershey and four of his brothers in 1894, is an American creamery that produces ice cream, sorbet, sherbet, frozen yogurt, and other frozen desserts and was one of the first to offer consumers pre-packaged ice cream pints. The company claims that they are not a franchise but have a program Sell Hershey's® that means there are no franchise fees and start-up costs are low! So You get franchise benefits without franchise fees and hassles becoming a Hershey's® Ice Cream Dealer.

Founded in: 2007 Franchising since: 2008 Franchise units: 1,100+ Worldwide Initial investment: $124,750 - $147,550 Initial Franchise Fee: $15,000 Royalty Fee: $500/yr.

Kona Ice franchisees bring their trucks to events to serve up shaved ice that customers can flavor themselves. Franchisees also partner with schools, teams, youth groups and other community groups for fundraising events. Shaved ice carts, kiosks and trailer are also available.

Rita's Italian Ice

Founded in: 1984 Franchising since: 1989 Franchise units: 600+ Worldwide Initial investment: $172,225 - $430,900 Initial Franchise Fee: $30,000 Royalty Fee: 6,5%

Rita's Italian Ice offers frozen custard, gelato, milkshakes, frozen drinks, sundaes and other frozen treats in addition to its ices. And unlike ice cream franchises, which have become so common that they’re now commoditized, Rita’s maintains a unique position in the frozen desserts industry. Our product isn’t sold in stores, and we’re often the only outlet in the market selling Italian ice. With four core models to choose from – a walk-in store, a walk-up store, mobile or special venue – we offer a range of accessible initial investments and make it easier for investors who want to grow quickly.

Andy's Frozen Custard

Founded in: 1986 Franchising since: 2003 Franchise units: 10 Initial investment: $528,500 - $1,387,500 Initial Franchise Fee: $32,000 Royalty Fee: 6%

Andy’s Frozen Custard is a quick service frozen dessert business. We are a freestanding restaurant, with drive through and walk-up service windows. We exclusively sell frozen custard treats. Andy’s has a wide variety of treats from simple vanilla or chocolate cones, to seasonal favorites like our Pumpkin Pie Concretes and Strawberry Shortcake Sundaes. Over 80% of our franchisees own multiple locations due to the high level of support and training from start to finish.

Marble Slab Creamery

Founded in: 1983 Franchising since: 1984 Franchise units: 300+ Worldwide Initial investment: $293,085 - $376,135 Initial Franchise Fee: $15,000 - $25,000 Royalty Fee: 6%

Marble Slab Creamery is a chain of independently owned and operated franchised stores that specialize in serving homemade ice cream and other desserts. In addition to ice cream served in waffle cones, stores also sell smoothies, shakes, sundaes, banana splits and ice cream cakes and pies. Some franchisees also offer homemade baked goods such as cookies, brownies and apple pie, as well as gourmet coffees.

Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers

Founded in: 2002 Franchising since: 2004 Franchise units: 287 Initial investment: $577,968 - $1,986,361 Initial Franchise Fee: $25,000 Royalty Fee: 4,5%

Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers is an American fast-casual restaurant chain based in Wichita, Kansas. The company provides frozen custard with a variety of specialty sundaes and concretes, steakburgers, Vienna Beef hot dogs, and chicken sandwiches.

Ben & Jerry's

Founded in: 1978 Franchising since: 1981 Franchise units: 550+ Worldwide Initial investment: $149,185 - $504,300 Initial Franchise Fee: $16,000 - $37,000 Royalty Fee: 3%

Ben & Jerry's Homemade Holdings Inc, trading and commonly known as Ben & Jerry's, is an American company that manufactures ice cream, frozen yogurt, and sorbet. Ben & Jerry’s operates on a three-part mission that aims to create linked prosperity for everyone that’s connected to our business: suppliers, employees, farmers, franchisees, customers, and neighbors alike.

View all ice cream franchisess

To know more about all stages of franchise development read our article Franchise development. How to develop a franchise .

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Ice Cream Business Plan Sample

Published Feb.05, 2024

Updated Apr.23, 2024

By: Brandi Marcene

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Table of Content

Ice Cream Shop business plan for starting your own ice cream shop

  The primary purpose of this ice cream shop business plan is to highlight the parameters by which principals will continue to build, develop, and operate an ice cream shop, which owns a prominent location.

Kevin D, the managing director of the ice cream shop, and the owner of the Ice Shop Company, Inc., are confident and eager to find a larger store within Texas (United States).

Kevin D, The American Ice Shopping Company, Inc., and owners Marry, and Evan Dwyer hope the store will be a success among other national stores already committed to doing business in Texas.

How to open an ice cream store

To open an ice cream store, it is very important to have a parking space. Buying ice cream is usually the customer’s impulse decision. Therefore, an ice cream shop should be easily accessible and have adequate parking. Find a location near businesses such as markets, baby clothing/toy stores or family restaurants .

Executive Summary

  Kevin D (owner), of the Ice Cream Shop, this single retail store will sell the ice creams and related products, all of which will be made by the owner under its own name.

Proceeds will be primarily from the sale of ice cream and related products consumed within the Davis Plaza. Owners will also sell ice cream cakes, traditional cakes, birthday cakes and cola products. Sales in the first year are expected to reach $74,890.00 and will grow at an average annual rate per year for the first five years of operation.

How to start a business?

  In this Ice cream startup business plan , we expect the initial required costs of $75,000 to $100,000 based on the cost of starting the ice cream shop and other liability. We are not expecting for the loan as of now. Therefore, we will be bearing the startup cost initially.

How to implement business management?

The principals, themselves, will manage this ice cream business plan . A qualified person will be the hand-in-hand manager for the day-to-day operations of the shop, with the help of the department. The manager will have the following responsibilities and perform the following duties:

Customers of ice cream shop

Without any customers, it doesn’t matter how big your ice cream is. Customers are the most important thing for any business to succeed. How to promote your new ice cream business ?

Well, there is the old-fashioned way and the modern technological way. You have to do both!

What target of this business?

The main goal of the ice cream startup business plan is to offer products related to ice cream advertising to large and small stores at regular national and international discounts on regular wholesale-purchase orders at competitive rates. We want to stand out from the other shop owners and offer a wide range of products that surpass our competitors, thus making our ice cream business plan a more attractive option.

 Company Summary

The company will be owned by Kevin D and one or two additional partners. Currently, no investment has been received from the other owners. However, it will hold a majority stake in the company under Kevin’s control. A buy/sell agreement with other investors will be established when a limited liability company (LLC) is formed to allow an exit strategy for one or all investors.

Business plan for investors

• Plan your business

When starting an ice cream shop, the business/startup, the shop owner will involve a consultant to help implement a business plan early on. Ice cream shop or store Expenditure Budget / Funds for a Startup – Comes from legacy and business credit.

• Define your brand

The ice cream shop’s measuring stick will be its unique approach to how to start a ice cream shop for personal customization based on customer satisfaction and customer needs. No customer is the same; they will not be treated generously. We are not only another shops, we

• How to advertise and market a business

In the business plan for ice cream store , will be very involved in the promotion and marketing of the social media market. Digital marketing is at the heart of any successful ice cream business plan  today. Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn will be the main target areas. A full-time digital marketing expert will be hired to run this page of the business to maintain its presence online.

• Establish web presence

A new website is currently under construction to engage the most effective web presence. It engages customers and gets new ones. Customers can order online as well as go to the store. Thus, it attracts a large customer base. Staying up to date with Google Analytics is key to maintaining a high search level.

 Company owner

The owner of the ice cream shop is a young man Kevin D who has a career in university. Kevin D comes from a family that has been in the ice cream and custard/food industry for two generations and dreamed of one day owning his own ice cream shop business. His knowledge of the field of food industry is immense, and his effort will be greatly appreciated.

 Why the ice cream shop is being started

Coming from a long line of family business owners, he always knew that he wanted to create his own identity in life, to be his own boss, to create his own new company from scratch. With this in mind, the university was her starting point. They need to gain more knowledge than she already has to ensure the success of her ice cream business plan .

 How the ice cream shop will be started

A lucky legacy enables the birth of an ice cream shop with a small business loan and the business plan for ice cream store . Besides, help from a business partner, consultant, and family business owner, the business will be operated.

In the sample business plan for ice cream shop , the owner is highlighting that the customers can choose the taste of frozen custard (vanilla, chocolate and one or two additional daily flavors) and then mix it with the Italian ice flavors of their choice (more than 30 flavors are offered daily to the customers). In addition, the customers can enjoy their desserts in a warm, soothing atmosphere like the upstairs of the ice cream shop.

The Products

• It tastes rich because it is made with an egg base.
• Low in fat and sugar than most premium ice creams
• Smooth and creamy texture.
• Taste of antique home (made fresh every day.)
• High density (it fills more than soft service due to low wind gusts.)
• Italian ice

Fruit-flavored ice cream with a smooth texture (very small ice crystals)

• A sweet and fat-free frozen product
• Made without milk or egg products
• Made with real fruit concentrate
• The consistency of a slash

Marketing Analysis of Ice Cream Shop Business

Market trends.

In recent 4 to 5 years, the ice cream and frozen confectionery industry have seen significant growth. Much of this growth has come in the premium and super-premium ice cream segment. Kevin’s Ice cream shop will serve products that come in the premium ice cream segment. Premium and super-premium products are commonly found in scoop stores such as Goldstone Creamery, Ben & Jerry and Prince Bucklers.

• 13% over 65 Years
• 45 to 25% between 45 to 64 Year
• 25% from 25 to 45 Years
• 12% from 18 to 25 Years

Marketing Segmentation

Customer groups for Kevin’s Ice Cream shop will be:

• 18-24 year olds

For the ice cream business plan project our market research identifies approximately 38,000 customers in the Texas area within this age range. The target customer is going to be the central part of “Ice cream shop”: half college students and half locals. They tend to spend more on expensive products than they buy.

• First families

These are the children who grew up in the Texas and nearby population. Most of their children are not yet teenagers. By targeting this group, we can not only build a large-scale instant business but also build long-term clients in children.

Increasing our downtown location and customer base will attract customers outside of our target groups, including those attending Saturday market, coming to town to shop, or attending plays or music events. We estimate that this third market segment of about 3,160 people (1% of the total local population) is conservative.

Business Target

16-24 year olds age group customers go out for ice cream more than any other age group. Among the 16-24 age group, the “Texas” location is important because they occupy a large area around the store location. They are accessible through music, mostly R&B, and they prefer valuable products that are compatible with our product offering.

What is the target Market?

The “first families” were chosen because of their growing population, number, and desire to go out frequently for ice creams. Their lifestyle is particular because they are the most accessible group to market. They all have young children, so strategies towards children or child-related markets can be very useful in testing and developing sales.

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In the ice cream businesses, we plan to reach the first families with their children. Kevin’s Ice Cream shop will sponsor a small league ball team and provide free ice creams on days when players win a game. This will draw them and their families to the store.

How to keep customers coming back?

  We also invite local elementary schools to visit our facilities. We will teach children how to make ice creams with various flavors. We allow each child to create their work; we hope they enjoy their time in our scoop shop so much that they wish to bring their parents back.

What will be the average receipt of the business?

The average customer receipt will range from $ 10 to $ 100, depending on the size of the business ordering the ice creams. Items purchased in bulk expect an average of $ 1000 receipt.

Product Pricing

Our prices are very low so that even middle class people can buy such products and get it easily. Therefore, our goal is to include all kinds of customers who want to have an unique taste and a variety of ice creams.

Marketing Strategy

Our online presence will increase our marketing online in the form of a professional website compatible with mobile phones. We direct traffic through our site by using/delivering an add-on to our customers. It will be essential to create regular food-centric content with keywords that are guaranteed to get high marks in search engines. We post the best offers on social media sites like our Facebook page to engage our followers and buy and click on our website. Using Facebook and Instagram ads for businesses to promote our products will be part of our implementation in Offset.

Competitive analysis

Kevin’s Ice Cream Shop has two competitive analysis points:

• Rich and creamy, high class, low fat, frozen desserts.
• Our friendly, neighborly attitude to our customers.

Both of these selling points help to achieve the overall goals of a consistent customer base with continuous sales. Our focus on paying personal attention to our customers, and engaging in local events and clubs will set us apart from our competitors.

Sales Strategy

Our sales strategy is primarily focused on delivering the highest quality products and services to our target customers. Once a customer enters our shop, it is our job to make sure their experience with us is enjoyable. Product offers and prices are clearly posted behind the counter, and scoopers are educated about the products and processes involved in each, so they can answer all customer questions.

Sales Monthly

The Ice cream shop business may not be able to take a profit margin in the very first month, but our plan is to do so in order to mitigate that plan quickly. However, in terms of sales, we expect a rapid increase in the first four weeks of the store.

Sales Yearly

For the First and second years in a row, we expect a total increase of 36-40% in sales due to a modest annual sales volume and the dramatic difference between the monthly average of the opening months and their peers in the second year. In the third year, we expect a conservative 16% increase in sales revenue.

Sales Forecast

In the ice cream business proposal , our sales forecast is mainly determined by the foot traffic in the area, the season of the year and the current weather. The sales for the first year will be based on this plan are approximately $70,000.00 to $80,000.00 and $80,00.00 to $90,000.00 for the second year and $90,000.00 to $100,000.00 for the third year.

Personnel plan

We expect seasonal hiring of part-time employees. Since we do not offer any benefits to our employees, full-time employees will not be hired in the first year.

We expect two or three part-time employees to start working in May, except for two or three employers. Our two or three employees will share the hours per week because we expect the paid employee to work an average of 5 hours a day, seven days a week.

Company Staff

What staff needed to open a company?

For opening an ice cream shop or company the basic staff will be sufficient, which are as below-

•   Part-time employees
• Owner – Kevin D
• Other Owner(s)

Average Salary of Employees

How much costs average salary for all employees?

To start an Ice cream shop business, the following table describes the average annual salary of each employee and the total salary for the next 3 years –

Financial Plan

The growth is expected to increase from the second year of the owners of Kevin D’s ice cream shop. In addition, there will be a need of some extra fund to maintain the required inventory levels and to purchase additional inventory if sales are higher than expected. No other immediate financial needs are expected.

Important Assumptions

An important assumption is the initial sales forecasts. We made this estimate based on an hourly average found at a local ice cream shop. We are significantly reducing the number due to the weather, our unknown brand name, and foot traffic. These ratings are very conservative, and we expect real sales to surpass them immediately.

Brake-even Analysis

The gap-equivalence analysis shows that Kevin’s Ice cream shop has sufficient sales strength to be viable. Our breakpoint is $$6,719 per month. We estimate our average selling price to be $2.50, which is the approximate selling price for medium-sized ice cream at our retail outlet.

Projected Profit and Loss

In the first year, we expect a Profit of $10,000 to $12,000. This is mostly due to losses incurred in the opening months and continued pay and other expenses. Next year, we expect to see a steady and steady profit level of $17,000, to $18,000 and we expect our profit to rise to $27,000 to $29,500 in the third year.

Profit Monthly

The initial months’ profit we make can sustain all our operations and give us enough dividends to invest in the future growth of the ice cream business.

Profit Yearly

As already mentioned, we may be at a loss for the first-months operations, but we expect to touch the profit base within 3 or 4 months of operation so that our annual profits can recover all the losses.

Gross Margin Monthly

In the first 5 to 6 months, the profit margins will be negative; however, we expect a thicker margin base as profits increase.

Gross Margin Yearly

Annual margins will be better in the upcoming years. Also, this will help us expand our business and reach a more extensive customer base.

Projected Cash Flow

Kevin’s Ice cream shop expects to manage the cash flow in the first year with the help of cash and cash reserves from our first year loss of $17,000 to $18,000.

Projected Balance Sheet

As stated earlier, owners insist on long-term growth in business value rather than short-term returns. Our projected balance sheet shows a decrease in net worth from $6,000 to $7,000 in the first year. However, starting from the second year, we expect our net worth to increase to $5,000 to $6,500 gradually, and by the end of the third year, the value of the company will increase to $21,000 to $22,000.

Business Ratios

Our total margin is significantly higher than the industry average. We believe this is because the vast majority of the industry is made up of large-scale manufacturers using economies.

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Small Business Trends

15 frozen yogurt franchise opportunities.

What is a Frozen Yogurt Franchise?

Frozen yogurt is a popular cold dessert, similar to frozen custard or soft serve ice cream. Frozen dessert franchises provide a model for starting a business that sells this product. You can usually get started quickly by paying a franchise fee and royalties, and the chain provides the resources and support needed to start your business.

The Frozen Yogurt Industry in 2022

Why you should consider a frozen yogurt franchise, general criteria for choosing the best frozen yogurt franchise: our methodology, top frozen yogurt franchises, 1. pinkberry, 2. orange leaf.

Orange Leaf provides a community-driven atmosphere and partners with Humble Donut Co. for co-branded franchises. The total initial investment ranges from $120,000 to $315,000, with a 5% royalty and 2% marketing fee as well.

4. 16 Handles

5. yogurtland.

Yogurtland is known for its customizable franchise model and real ingredients like fresh fruit. The recognizable brand mainly partners with those who can secure popular locations in shopping centers. There is a $35,000 initial fee, 6% royalty, and 2% marketing fees, and startup costs range from about $180,000 to $490,000.

6. CherryBerry

8. menchie’s frozen yogurt, 9. sweetfrog.

sweetFrog is known as the “hoppiest” froyo franchise. They offer various models, from those in amusement parks to a truck-based business. Total costs start at $240,000, with a franchise fee of $30,000.

10. Yogen Fruz

11. baskin-robbins, 12. nautical bowls, 13. milkshake momma.

Milkshake Momma offers a unique concept that focuses on gourmet milkshakes. The franchising fee is $35,000 and the initial investment starts at around $180,000.

14. Forever Yogurt

15. reis & irvy’s.

How to Choose the Best Franchise to Set Up Your Frozen Yogurt Business

Create a budget.

Before getting started, determine how much liquid cash you can spend upfront and how much you’re willing to pay for ongoing royalties and marketing support.

Analyze Your Local Market

Consider your role in the business, compare support options, how much does it cost to open a frozen yogurt franchise, are frozen yogurt franchises profitable.

Frozen yogurt franchises can be profitable, but it depends on which model you choose. Your location, startup costs, and expenses also make an impact. Some yogurt chains report nearly $800,000 in sales yearly once they’re up and running. This could allow you to meet expenses and earn a profit within the first year or two.

Home » Food

How to Start an Ice Cream Shop [Business Plan]

An ice cream shop is a business that prepares or serves ice cream, ice cream treats, sorbet, and gelato. Purchases may be consumed on-site, taken out, or delivered. Ice cream is made from dairy products or dairy alternatives, such as soy milk.

Gelato generally has a lower butterfat content than ice cream, while sorbet is sweetened water that is flavored with fruit. Most stores offer ice cream, ice cream treats, and ice cream with toppings. The ice cream industry is growing and statistics have it that the global ice cream market is expected to grow at a CAGR of over 5.71 percent from 2022 to 2026.

Ben & Jerry’s was the top-ranked ice cream brand in the United States with about 936 million U.S. dollars’ worth of sales for the 52 weeks that ended on September 5, 2022. Total ice cream category sales amounted to about 6.76 billion U.S. dollars.

Steps on How to Start an Ice Cream Shop Business

Conduct market research.

It is important to state that conducting market research before starting any business is key to the success of a business hence you must not open an ice cream shop without conducting market research. This is because Market research provides critical information about your market and your business landscape.

It can tell you how your business is perceived by your target customers. It can help you determine who and where your customers are, and which customers are most likely to do business with you. Also, thorough market research will help you understand how your target customers think in order to turn them into regular customers and brand advocates.

a. Who is the Target Market for Ice Cream Shop Business?

The truth is that ice cream and related products are widely consumed, with half the population eating ice cream regularly. Children 6-12 years of age have the highest uptake (62%), followed by adults over 75 years of age (58%). Otherwise, ice cream consumption is distributed evenly across household income brackets, education levels, and gender.

However, households with children have higher rates of consumption (51%) than those without children (46%). The average ice cream consumer eats ice cream 1.6 times per week. Female ice cream consumers of 65 years of age and older eat ice cream about twice per week.

b. Is Ice Cream Shop a Profitable Business?

Yes, the ice cream shop business is quite profitable because the industry is valued at over $6 billion, and at least 40 percent of Americans eat ice cream once during a two-week period.

c. Are There Existing Niches in the Industry?

Yes, there are existing niches when it comes to ice cream shops. Here are some of them;

• Brick and mortar ice cream shop
• Drive through ice cream shop
• Kiosk ice cream shop
• Mobile ice cream shop (ice cream carts or ice cream trucks)

d. Who are the Major Competitors?

• Ben & Jerry’s Homemade Holdings Inc.
• Berkshire Hathaway Inc.
• Cold Stone Creamery Inc.
• Dunkin’ Brands Inc.
• Sweet Republic
• Bi-Rite Creamery
• Kelley Country Creamery
• Creole Creamery
• Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream
• Ted Drewes Frozen Custard
• Chinatown Ice Cream Factory
• Penn State Berkey Creamery
• Crank & Boom Craft Ice Cream
• Richardson’s Ice Cream
• Boardwalk Waffles & Ice Cream
• Ample Hills Creamery
• Pumphouse Creamery
• Amy’s Ice Cream.

e. Are There County or State Regulations or Zoning Laws for Ice Cream Shop Business?

Yes, there are county and state regulations and zoning laws for ice cream shops in the United States. Please note that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) sets the federal Food Code, but it doesn’t oversee individual ice cream shops. Instead, the various states use the Food Code as the basis for their own food codes. They may adopt its rules, interpret them differently or set their own rules.

Please note that in the United States, you are required to follow your own state’s food service code. Visit the FDA website for a list of food service codes by state. Use this to find the state authority handling ice cream shop business and view the laws that apply in your state.

f. Is There a Franchise for Ice Cream Shop Business?

Yes, there are franchise opportunities for the ice cream shop business, and here are some of them;

• Baskin-Robbins
• Cold Stone Creamery
• Rita’s Italian Ice
• Sub Zero Franchise Inc.
• Dippin’ Dots Franchising LLC
• The Haagen-Dazs Shoppe Co. Inc.
• Tasti D-Lite
• Marble Slab Creamery
• Bruster’s® Real Ice Cream
• Ben & Jerry’s.

g. What Do You Need to Start an Ice Cream Shop Business?

• A Feasibility Report
• Business and Marketing Plans
• Business Licenses and Permits
• A Good Shop facility
• EIN (Employer Identification Number)/Federal Tax ID Number.
• A Corporate Bank Account
• Startup Capital

Memorable Ice Cream Shop Business Names

• Your Sweetness© Ice Cream Shop, Inc.
• The Treat™ Ice Cream Shop, LLC
• Elena Davies© Ice Cream Shop, Inc.
• Mickey Mouse House® Ice Cream Shop, Inc.
• Regina Frances™ Ice Cream Shop, Inc.
• Topmost™ Ice Cream Shop, LLC.
• Boyd Landers© Ice Cream Shop, LLC
• Kendra Norman® Ice Cream Shop, Inc.
• Ice Base© Ice Cream Shop, Inc.
• Rita Smith© Ice Cream Shop, Inc.
• Kristy® Ice Cream Shop, LLC
• White Label® Ice Cream Shop, LLC
• Mira Angel™ Ice Cream Shop, LLC
• Headstone© Ice Cream Shop, Inc.
• Celebrations® Ice Cream Shop, Inc.
• Sean Venus™ Ice Cream Shop, Inc.
• Light House™ Ice Cream Shop, Inc.
• Cold Serve© Ice Cream Shop, Inc.
• Ruben Dowell® Ice Cream Shop, LLC
• Silver Linning™ Ice Cream Shop, Inc.

Register Your Business

A. what type of business structure is best for ice cream shop.

When it comes to starting an ice cream shop business, you have several options when it comes to the business structure, but the one most players in this line of business consider is an LLC. It is common to consider an LLC because providers want to protect themselves from lawsuits.

Please note that an LLC will need an EIN if it has employees or if it will be required to file any of the excise tax forms listed below.

b. Steps to Form an LLC

• Choose a Name for Your LLC.
• File Articles of Organization.
• Choose a registered agent.
• Decide on member vs. manager management.
• Create an LLC operating agreement.
• Comply with other tax and regulatory requirements.
• File annual reports.

c. What Type of License is Needed to Open an Ice Cream Shop Business?

• General Business License
• Health and Safety Permit
• Food and Drinks Handlers’ License
• Zonal Permits
• Signage Permit
• Operational State Facility Inspections
• A music license if you want to play live, recorded, or streaming music in your shop
• A dumpster placement permit that specifies where you can put your dumpster outside your shop

d. What Type of Certification is Needed to Open an Ice Cream Shop Business?

You don’t need any certifications to open an ice cream shop business.

e. What Documents are Needed to Open an Ice Cream Shop Business?

• Business and liability insurance
• Federal Tax Payer’s ID
• State Permit and Building Approval
• Certificate of Incorporation
• Business License
• Business Plan
• Employment Agreement (offer letters)
• Operating Agreement for LLCs
• Insurance Policy
• Online Terms of Use
• Online Privacy Policy Document
• Contract Document
• Company Bylaws
• Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)

f. Do You Need a Trademark, Copyright, or Patent?

If you are considering opening an ice cream shop business, usually you may not have any need to file for intellectual property protection or trademark. This is so because the nature of the business makes it possible for you to successfully run it without having any cause to challenge anybody in court for illegally making use of your company’s intellectual properties.

Cost Analysis and Budgeting

A. how much does it cost to start an ice cream shop business.

The cost required to open an ice cream shop business may vary significantly, but basically, opening an ice cream shop will cost you anywhere between $20,000 to $50,000.

b. What are the Cost Involved in Starting an Ice Cream Shop Business

• Business Registration Fees – $750.
• Legal expenses for obtaining licenses and permits – $1,300.
• Marketing, Branding and Promotions – $1,000.
• Business Consultant Fee – $2,500.
• Insurance – $1,400.
• Rent/Lease – $15,000.
• Other start-up expenses like commercial satellite TV subscriptions, stationery ($500), and phone and utility deposits ($1,800).
• Operational Cost (salaries of employees, payments of bills et al) – $30,000
• Start-up Inventory – $5,000
• Store Equipment (cash register, security, ventilation, signage) – $1,750
• Furnishing and equipping the shop – $10,000
• Website: $600
• Opening party: $3,000
• Miscellaneous: $2,000

c. What Factors Determine the Cost of Opening an Ice Cream Shop Business?

• The size of the ice cream shop
• The choice of location
• The required licenses and permits
• The type of facility
• The type of related products retailed in the shop
• The cost for branding, promotion, and marketing of the Ice cream shop
• The cost for furnishing and equipping the ice cream shop
• The cost of insurance
• The cost for registering the business
• Source of your supplies and ongoing expenses
• Cost of recruiting and training your staff
• The cost for the purchase and customizing of uniforms
• The cost for the grand opening of the ice cream business

d. Do You Need to Build a Facility? If YES, How Much Will It Cost?

No, it is not compulsory to build a new facility for your ice cream shop, but if you have the required finance, it will pay you to build your own facility. The truth is that building or reconstructing a facility will help you come up with a facility that will perfectly fit into your overall business goals.

e. What are the Ongoing Expenses of an Ice Cream Shop Business?

• Supplies (inventory expenses)
• Utility bills (internet subscriptions, phone bills, signage and software renewal fees et al)
• Maintenance and repair of equipment
• Salaries of employees

f. What is the Average Salary of your Staff?

• Shop Manager (Owner) – $45,000 Per Year
• Accountant – $30,630,000 Per Year
• Ice Cream Makers and Servers (Confectioner)- $27,100 Per Year
• Cleaners – $25,000 Per Year

g. How Do You Get Funding to Start an Ice Cream Shop Business?

• Raising money from personal savings and sale of personal stocks and properties
• Raising money from investors and business partners
• Sell shares to interested investors
• Applying for a loan from your bank/banks
• Source for soft loans from your family members and friends.

Write a Business Plan

A. executive summary.

Cold Serve© Ice Cream Shop, Inc. is a standard ice cream shop that will be based in Maplewood, Missouri, and will cover a wide range of clients. We will operate both ice cream shop and ice cream truck and our mobile ice cream trucks will be customized to fit into what a first-class mobile food truck business should look like.

When it comes to hygiene and proper packaging, we have put plans, processes, and structures in place to make sure that we are always on top of our game. We have been able to secure permits from all relevant departments in Maplewood, Missouri.

b. Products and Service

• Soft-serve ice cream or hard ice cream (homemade or pre-packaged, blended with toppings, shakes, or sundaes)
• Frozen Yogurt
• Frozen Custard

c. Mission Statement

Our mission is to build an ice cream business that will meet the needs of our customers and potential customers in the regions/cities where we have our outlets and to sell franchises all across the United States of America and Canada.

Vision Statement

Our vision is to be among the top 3 ice cream shops in the United States of America.

d. Goals and Objectives

The goals and objectives of an ice cream shop business are to provide a retail outlet where patrons can go to buy different flavors of ice cream.

Organizational Structure

• Shop Manager (Owner)
• Ice Cream Maker and Server (Confectioner)

Marketing Plan

A. swot analysis.

• Ideal location for an ice cream shop business
• Highly experienced and qualified employees and management
• Access to finance from business partners
• Access to ingredients and supplies
• A reliable, clean, healthy, and efficient method of preparing ice cream.
• Financial constraints may restrict the publicity and branding of the business
• A new business that will be competing with well-established ice cream shops and production franchises in the city.
• Inability to retain our highly experienced and qualified employees longer than we want during the teething stage of the business.

Opportunities:

• A rise in the number of ice cream lovers within our market space
• Online market, new services, new technology, and of course the opening of new markets.
• The arrival of a new ice cream shop within our market space
• Weather uncertainty
• Economic uncertainty
• Liability problems
• The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) could change its regulatory status and decide to enforce strict regulations that can strangulate new businesses like ours.

b. How Do Ice Cream Shops Make Money?

Ice cream shops make money by selling the following products;

c. Payment Options

• Payment via bank transfer
• Payment with cash
• Payment via credit cards/Point of Sale Machines (POS Machines)
• Payment via online bank transfer
• Payment via check
• Payment via mobile money transfer
• Payment via bank draft

d. Sales & Advertising Strategies

• Introduce your ice cream shop business by sending introductory letters alongside your brochure to households, schools, and other key stakeholders throughout the city where your ice cream shop business is located.
• Advertise on the internet on blogs and forums, and also on social media like Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn to get your message across.
• Create a basic website for your business so as to give your business an online presence
• Directly market your products.
• Join local ice cream shop associations for industry trends and tips
• Provide discount days for your customers
• Advertise our business in community-based newspapers, local TV and radio stations
• List your business on yellow pages ads (local directories)
• Encourage the use of word-of-mouth marketing (referrals)

Financial Projection

A. how much should you charge for your product/service.

Retail prices of ice cream in the United States have been trending upwards since the mid-’90s. They peaked in 2011 at 5.52 U.S. dollars per half a gallon and have settled at an average of 4.75 over the last four years.

b. How Much Profit Do Ice Cream Shop Owners Make a Year?

It depends, but the available report shows that on average, a small to medium-sized ice cream shop can earn anywhere from $50,000 to $120,000 for the shop owner.

c. What Factors Determine the Amount of Profit to Be Made?

• The capacity of the ice cream shop
• The types of related products retailed in the shop
• The location the ice cream shop is covering
• The management style of the ice cream shop
• The business approach of the ice cream shop
• The advertising and marketing strategies adopted by the ice cream shop.
• The number of years the ice cream shop is in business

d. What is the Profit Margin of an Ice Cream Shop?

The average profit margin of ice cream depends on the number of materials you use in producing the ice cream, but available data shows that on average it is around 40 percent.

e. What is the Sales Forecast?

Below is the sales forecast of an ice cream shop. It is based on the location of the business and other factors as it relates to such startups in the United States;

• First Fiscal Year: $150,000
• Second Fiscal Year: $240,000
• Third Fiscal Year: $360,000

Set Up your Shop 

A. how do you choose a perfect location for an ice cream shop.

• The demography of the location
• The climatic condition of the location
• The demand for ice cream in the location
• The purchasing power of businesses and the residents of the location
• Accessibility of the location
• The number of ice cream shops in the location
• The local laws and regulations in the community/state
• Traffic, parking and security et al

b. What State and City are Best to Open an Ice Cream Shop?

• Middleton, Massachusetts
• Maplewood, Missouri
• Omaha, Nebraska
• Lexington, Kentucky
• Edison, New Jersey
• Washington, D.C.
• Chicago, Illinois
• Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
• Los Angeles, California
• New York City, New York
• Dallas, Texas
• Las Vegas, Nevada

c. What Equipment is Needed to Operate an Ice Cream Shop?

• Ice cream makers, refrigerators, and freezer.

Hire Employees

When it comes to hiring employees for a standard ice cream shop, you should make plans to hire a competent shop manager (you can occupy this position), account clerk, ice cream maker, servers, and cleaners.

Launch the Business Proper

No ice cream shop opens its door for business without first organizing an opening party to officially launch the business. You can choose to do a soft opening if you are operating on a low budget or you can go for a grand opening party.

The bottom line is that with a proper launching of the ice cream shop, you will officially inform people in your city that your ice cream shop is open for business.

a. What Makes an Ice Cream Shop Business Successful?

• Choose a good location and shop facility to launch the business
• Make sure your shop has different flavors of ice cream (give your customers options)
• Be deliberate with your marketing sales approach
• Encourage the use of word of mouth to promote your ice cream shop business
• Leverage on all available online and offline platforms to promote your ice cream business

b. What Happens During a Typical Day at an Ice Cream Shop?

• The shop is open for the day’s work
• Ice cream making ingredients are ordered for and prepared
• The serving areas, chairs, and tables are properly arranged
• Walk-in customers are attended to
• Deliveries are made
• Stocks are taken and reports are written
• The business is closed for the day.

c. What Skills and Experience Do You Need to Build an Ice Cream Shop Business?

• Excellent customer services skills
• Interpersonal skill
• Accounting and bookkeeping skills
• Business management skills
• Bargaining skill
• Work experience in a shop environment
• Experience in managing people
• Experience in business administration
• Experience in making different flavors and types of ice creams and also handling different types of commercial ice cream making equipment.

More on Food

• Business Plans Handbook
• Business Plans - Volume 03
• Ice Cream Shop Business Plan

Ice Cream Shop

BUSINESS PLAN

FRAN'S ICE

Davis Plaza Regional Mall 19 Orchard Avenue Davis, CA 95616

January 1996

This business plan details a franchise ice cream shop located in a California shopping center. Fran's Ice anticipates continued success due to its superb location, diverse menu, and well-known quality product

• TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION

Executive summary.

• DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS OBJECTIVES

COMPETITIVE ANALYSIS

Development timetable, principals' profiles, financial information.

The purpose of this business plan is to outline the parameters under which the principals will pursue the construction, development and operation of a franchised Fran's Ice Cream Shoppe in a key location at the mall entrance to the food court of Davis Plaza, a successful, dominant, super regional shopping center in metropolitan Woodland - Sacramento.

Davis Plaza's management company, Martin Richardson and the franchisor, the Fran's Ice Shoppe Company, Inc., are optimistic and enthusiastic about locating a high-volume shop within Davis Plaza.

Martin Richardson, The Fran's Ice Shoppe Company, Inc., and the franchisees, Augustus and Cheryl Dwyer, are all confident that this Fran's shop will be successful among the other national stores already committed to doing business in Davis Plaza.

The Fran's Ice Shoppe of Davis (franchisee), will construct, develop and operate a licensed franchised ice cream dipping shop of The Fran's Ice Shoppe Company, Inc. (franchisor). This single retail dipping shop will sell Fran's ice cream and related products, all manufactured by the franchisor under its name.

Revenue will be primarily from the sale of hand-dipped ice cream and related products consumed within Davis Plaza. Franchisees will also sell ice cream cakes, traditional gourmet cakes, birthday cakes and Cola products. Sales are anticipated to be $360,000 in the first year and to increase at an average annual rate of 4% per year in the first five years of operation.

The franchise will be located in Davis Plaza in Davis, California. Because of its location in the center of the Woodland - Sacramento areas, Davis Plaza serves many communities and is commonly considered the Tri-Cities' premier retail facility. Davis Plaza, which opened in 1968, is a two-level, enclosed regional shopping center containing a total of 1.2 million square feet and 200 stores, shops and food service establishments. The Plaza is anchored by Hank's, B.P.'s, and Westbury's. Fran's Ice Shoppe of Davis will be located in "The Outdoorum" which is Davis Plaza's 40,000 square foot food court containing 17 food service establishments including Cheese Pleese, Beefeaters, and Sweet Dreams.

Franchisee's primary customers will be drawn from Davis Plaza's 1994 trade area population of over 853,000 people, which is projected to reach 940,000 people by 1999. Customers shopping The Plaza will purchase Fran's handdipped ice cream and other products on an impulse basis during their shopping trip, or as a dessert treat upon completing a meal at The Outdoorum. Franchisee also anticipates that many patrons will make the shop their primary destination due to name recognition and product quality. Except for a small Earl's Ice Cream Shop and a Frozen Treat selling soft serve vanilla only, there is no other competition within Davis Plaza, and no outside competition within 2 miles of The Plaza.

The principals will be managing their own shop. Augustus Dwyer will be the hands-on manager for daily operations. Cheryl Dwyer will retain her present position as a nurse clinician for J. Landers, but will assist with her employee management and accounting skills. In addition, approximately six to ten school and/or college students will be hired to work shifts during peak sales periods. Other part-time employees may be hired on an "as needed" basis for special projects such as cake decorating, preparing large orders for caterers and servicing of other special functions.

Project costs are projected to be $250,000 which includes leasehold improvements (build out of the shop), equipment purchases, opening inventory, and working capital needs. This amount does not include the $35,000 franchise fee, $3500 Fran's grand opening contribution, or $7870 cost of architect's plans for the store which Gus and Cheryl Dwyer have already invested in this business from their own funds. The principals are seeking to finance the remainder of this project through a local lending institution using the assistance of a Small Business Administration (SBA) guarantee, with an agreement that allows for loan repayment over 10 years.

Based on a preliminary timetable it is anticipated that the shop will be operational for business no later than April, 1, 1996.

Other Noteworthy Facts:

• A 2.5 gallon tub of ice cream from Fran's costs $29.00 ($11.60 gal.)
• From a 2.5 gallon tub come 724 oz. scoops which sell for from $1.50 to $l.95 a scoop. Therefore a tub will sell for $108 to $140.
• Average ticket for a Fran's shop runs around $2.30.

DESCRIPTION OF THE BUSINESS/OBJECTIVES

The Fran's Ice Shoppe of Montclair (Shoppe), will be a franchised operation of The Fran's Ice Shoppe Company, Inc. licensed to sell Fran's ice cream and related products. The Fran's name has been associated with the ice cream business since 1961. The Company manufactures a large and growing volume of Fran's products which it distributes through a variety of channels. The ice cream ordinarily is not sold for retail dipping except to franchised dipping shops.

The Franchisor is Connecticut Corporation, with principal offices in New Haven, C.T. The ultimate parent of the company is Drake PLC, a public corporation listed on the London Stock Exchange, via ownership of The Harley Company.

Franchisees have been granted a license to sell certain ice cream products under the Fran's name since 1977, although the franchisor has been conducting a business of the type operated by the franchisee since 1983. Affiliates of the franchisor are actively engaged in various other sectors of the food service industry, including fast service restaurants, theme restaurants, food service supply business, institutional and retail food production, distribution and sales and food commodity transactions.

The main items for sale will be hand dipped ice cream and yogurt cups/cones, sundaes finished with a variety of toppings such as hot fudge, caramel, butterscotch or fruit, banana splits shakes malts, and ice cream sodas and floats. Most of these items will be consumed immediately on the premises. Davis Plaza provides extensive indoor seating for the food court customers.

In addition to hand-dipped ice cream sales, the Shoppe anticipates doing a material business in the sale of both ice cream cakes and gourmet traditional cakes and birthday cakes. These cakes will be displayed for immediate sale at all times during business hours and can also be produced in quantity on a special order basis for caterers and parties. Phenomenal foot traffic in the plaza and employees from the 200 shops in the mall can support a lucrative cake business for the Shoppe.

The goals and objectives of The Fran's Ice Shoppe of Davis are as follows:

"To deliver a quality product in a consistent, courteous and timely manner in order to have the customer return again for another satisfying, flavorsome treat, while at the same time earning a reasonable return on the initial investment"

The principals believe that for an organization to be successful, the organization must ensure that the customer continues to return to purchase the product, again and again. One way to ensure repeat business is to provide consistency in both the product and service. Fran's product speaks for itself; the service our Shoppe provides will be a function of training, evaluation, and retraining in order to deliver it courteously and in a timely manner.

In order to earn a reasonable return on the investment, along with the ability to repay debt, strict cost-control measures will be implemented. These measures will include, among others, proper and prudent purchasing practices, maximization of product distribution through strict adherence to weights, amounts and recipes (portion control), effective utilization of personnel, and the constant search for ways to reduce the cost of sales of our products without sacrificing quality and service.

In summary, the principals are committed to ensuring that this operation is successful.

The purchase of hand-dipped ice cream and related products is basically an impulse-type purchase by a consumer relating to one of the following stimuli:

• Passing by the Shoppe on the way to another destination,
• Visual contact with the Shoppe's signs,
• Observing someone else consuming one of the Shoppe's products,
• The final course (dessert) after a meal has been consumed elsewhere.

Locating the Shoppe in Davis Plaza gives the business the opportunity to take advantage of all of the above mentioned ways which motivate the consumer to purchase the products offered.

Passing by on the Way to Another Destination

Davis Plaza is comprised of the best known, nationally recognized retail stores and outlets. The unique blend of these operations draws a large cross section of the population to the Plaza to shop for a variety of goods and services. The Fran's Ice Shoppe of Davis will be a 556 square foot store located at the entrance to the food court of the mall. It is on the second level, right across from the main escalators carrying shoppers from the lower to the second level. It is between the main parking structure and B.P.'s, requiring all B.P.'s patrons entering from the main parking structure to pass directly in from of the Shoppe on their way to B.P.'s. The Shoppe is well within walking distance from anywhere in Davis Plaza in five minutes or less. Because of its location, many patrons of the Plaza will pass by the Shoppe on the way to and from another store, making it convenient for an impulse purchase.

Visual Contact from the Shoppe's Sign

Signage is planned for the Shoppe in two locations. Large, colorful neon signs will be located over the dipping cabinets, making them visible from both the food court and from down the mall. Since the Shoppe will be in a corner location, the Shoppe will be visible from several directions in the "I" shaped mall. There is also an opening to below directly in front of the Shoppe, allowing visibility to patrons on the lower level. The location for the Shoppe has the greatest amount of foot traffic in front of it than any other food service in Davis Plaza.

Observing Someone Else Consuming One of the Products

As previously mentioned, the Shop's products more than likely will be consumed on or nearby the premises. The fact that Davis Plaza is enclosed and self-contained will make Fran's products very visible to many shoppers, particularly since all products will be served in containers that display the Fran's logo.

The Final Course (Dessert) After a Meal has been Consumed Elsewhere

In addition to the tremendous foot traffic generated by the major department stores and numerous nationally renowned shops surrounding The Fran's Ice Shoppe of Davis, the Shoppe is to be located at die entrance to The Outdoorum, the Plaza's food court. The food court houses 17 places to eat. The Shoppe can be seen from anywhere in the food court, making it a likely destination for a dessert treat following a meal for the entire family. The Shoppe will have two 3-foot wide, 4-shelf display cases for cakes. One 3-foot display will be for frozen ice cream cakes, and the other will be refrigerated for display of traditional gourmet cakes and gourmet birthday cakes. The principals believe that tremendous potential exists for the sale of birthday cakes in the Plaza since many gifts are purchased there and no competition exists for these items in the Plaza.

An additional marketing strategy of the Shoppe will be sales generated from freezer carts bearing the Fran's logo and colors off site from Davis Plaza. There are many fairs, festivals and parties within the Shoppe's geographic service area (including the Sacramento County Fair, and Renaissance Days) where significant additional sales may be generated on ice cream bars and other novelties. Most importantly, these outside sales will give the Shoppe name recognition which will help make it a primary destination for an expanded segment of the market.

Additional methods of enhancing the Shoppe's name recognition will be local newspaper advertising with coupons, special promotions and discounts to employees of Davis Plaza, companion promotions and discounts with other merchants in the Plaza, and offers to local schools for discounts to students with good grades.

Lastly, additional sales revenue and name recognition for the Shoppe will be generated by sponsoring sports, social, educational and fund-raising activities within the communities served by Davis Plaza. The principals have numerous fund-raising idea and plans for community involvement that will help make the Shoppe a money-maker.

The primary competitors of The Fran's Ice Shoppe of Davis are within the Davis Plaza itself. The principals have done a detailed analysis of the existing ice cream and yogurt shops outside Davis Plaza, and this study is available upon request. The principals believe that the two ice cream and yogurt related businesses inside Davis Plaza are the Shoppe's main competition. They are:

Frozen Treat

Located across The Outdoorum from the Shoppe. Frozen Treat does not serve real ice cream at all. They serve only one flavor of soft serve, vanilla. They make cones, cups, sundaes and shakes and, according to Davis Plaza management, enjoyed $550,000 in sales volume in 1994 and approximately the same sales volume in 1995.

Earl's Ice Cream and Yogurt

Located in the Westbury wing of Davis Plaza. This is a small shop with extremely limited visibility. It is not located in The Outdoorum but is on the outskirts of the heavy traffic area of the Plaza. Earl's serves 24 flavors of real ice cream and 2 flavors of frozen yogurt. No cakes are offered for sale. According to Davis Plaza management Earl's enjoyed $303,000 in sales volume in 1994 and approximately the same sales volume in 1995.

The principals believe that there is outstanding potential for the sale of Fran's super premium quality ice cream, yogurt and related products in Davis Plaza. As just noted, in 1994 and 1995 the sales volume generated for ice cream, frozen yogurt and soft serve in Montclair Plaza was $852,000. The Fran's Ice Shoppe of Davis will be located in the most visible food service location in Davis Plaza. The principals feel that Frozen Treat will not hinder the Shoppe's sales because Frozen Treat serves only average quality soft serve vanilla products. The Shoppe will have 32 flavors of the finest quality ice cream and 6 flavors of frozen yogurt and sorbet ready for sale at all times…as well as ice cream cakes, birthday cakes, gourmet traditional cakes by the slice or whole, and shakes, malts, sundaes, ice cream bars, frozen yogurt and sorbet bars, and sodas.

Other ice cream and frozen yogurt stores exist within a three-mile radius of Davis Plaza. There are four small independent stores and three Scoops stores in this three-mile circle. The closest independent to the Plaza is approximately 2 miles away. As stated previously the principals strongly believe that the Shop's main and most important competitors are inside Davis Plaza. The principals also firmly believe that the quality and selection of Fran's products they will offer, coupled with a superior location within the Davis Plaza, will help them achieve the success they anticipate and will work toward. The principals are also actively engaged in negotiations with the landlord to exclude any new competition from The Plaza during the term of their lease.

The principals, themselves, will manage this business. Augustus Dwyer will be the hands-on manager for the daily operation of the Shoppe, assisted by Cheryl Dwyer. Gus Dwyer shall have the following responsibilities and perform the following duties:

• Oversee the design, development and construction of the Shoppe
• Collect competitive bids for the build out of the Shoppe and for the equipment needed for the Shoppe. Select contractors and equipment suppliers to complete the Shoppe.
• Seek and obtain the necessary financing for this project.
• Attend and successfully complete Fran's Ice Basic Management Training Course # 318 at The Fran's Ice Shoppe Company, Inc. corporate offices in New Haven Connecticut. This is an eleven day training course which will prepare Gus to successfully operate a Fran's ice cream shop. Gus is registered to attend this course from 1 -16-96 to 1 -26-96.
• Plan, coordinate and execute merchandising and promotion of the Shoppe, including Grand Opening activities, and a year round calendar of holidays, special events and numerous other promotional activities.
• Prepare all products to be sold, sourcing the most cost effective suppliers on goods not purchased from Fran's directly. Maintain adequate levels of inventory, while maximizing inventory turns and losing no sales due to out-of-stocks.
• Ensure that standards of product quality control and shop cleanliness required by the franchisor are maintained on a daily basis.
• Recruit, select, interview and hire all Shoppe personnel.
• Perform orientation, training and re-training of all Shoppe personnel.
• Perform all required accounting functions for the Shoppe.
• Personally make a commitment to give 100% best effort and a personal full-time commitment to operating the Shoppe to its greatest potential. Gus will demonstrate the leadership necessary to operate the Shoppe successfully on a daily basis, and to ensure an acceptable return on the initial investment and repayment of debt.

The principals will designate certain properly trained personnel who will coordinate the activities of the other employees during periods when Augustus Dwyer is not on the premises. Those employees will be trained to make prudent decisions in the absence of Gus Dwyer and to carry out the duties of the Manager on an as-needed basis. In the event of an emergency, the principals can be contacted by phone or paged by remote pager and be on-site within 15 minutes.

Six to eight high school and/or college students will be hired to work at the Shoppe on a part-time basis. There will be no full-time employees of the Shoppe other than management.

The principals are developing a program of orientation and training which all Shoppe employees must complete prior to starting work. A written policies and procedures manual will be the foundation for that that training. All Shoppe employees will be trained to perform all customer service, quality control, and cleanliness and sanitation procedures utilized by the Shoppe, and will know exactly what is expected of them as a Fran's Ice Shoppe employee.

The principals have worked for many different supervisors in their 37 years of combined work experience, and have seen many different management techniques and styles. Augustus Dwyer has extensive management experience in both retail and wholesale sales and customer service. Cheryl Dwyer brings to Fran's a wealth of experience as house supervisor in a 205 bed J. Landers Hospital, supervising 60 or more nurses at a time. The combined management experience which the principals have will be an asset to them in training and managing a productive team of Shoppe employees.

The proposed timetable for the project is as follows:

Augustus Herman Dwyer

A strong, responsible businessman and manager, Augustus Dwyer has over 21 years experience in retailing, wholesaling and customer service Gus' roots are in the grocery industry, where he was employed for 14 years. The first 5 years Gus spent working at store level as a box boy, grocery clerk, produce clerk, and produce department manager. He was elevated by Division Corporate Personnel who felt that his talents would be best utilized at the division level and promoted to Division Produce and Floral Buyer.

During this 9 year period, Gus' hands-on approach to his work greatly benefitted his company. Gus planned, researched and implemented a program of fresh fruit, soup and salad bars for the company and personally assisted in the set-up of 41 new salad bars divisionwide.

Gus was also responsible for planning the division's floral program and purchased cut flowers and plants for 110 stores for 4 years.

Utilizing his knowledge and experience in the floral trade, Gus now works as National Sales Manager for a flower wholesaling company in San Francisco. He has an outstanding record in high volume sales and increasing sales revenues. He has expanded the customer base, sourced new suppliers, and increased the variety of product his company sells, resulting in a 30% increase in sales since coming on board with the company.

Gus' strengths include the ability to plan, organize, achieve results quickly, and evaluate and implement winning marketing strategies. He has significant influence with other employees and positively motivates his subordinated and peers. He is an experienced buyer, merchandiser, salesman, and customer satisfaction specialist.

Cheryl Lynn Dwyer

An experienced nurse manager, Cheryl's nursing background involves a total of 10 years as a Registered Nurse, all employed with J. Landers. Seven of the years have been dedicated towards the Management Of Medical-Surgical And Maternal Child Health Nursing Services. Accountabilities include yearly performance evaluations of approximately 45 employees and the general supervision of J. Landers Florin on the evening shift of the entire hospital, which averages 120 employees. All problems unresolved are directed to her for her successful resolution and followup.

Cheryl is responsible for the successful planning and implementation of the Medical-Surgical Department Quality Management Program, which encompasses directing nurses in data collection, action plans and evaluation on a monthly basis. She has completed a 12 week, total quality management course and participated in two task forces utilizing Total Quality Management (TQM).

Cheryl's strengths include effective organization and leadership abilities and extensive interpersonal skills. Cheryl has seven years experience hiring successful employees, coaching, counseling and motivating them to deliver the best nursing care to J. Landers members.

Note: Please see attached career/work histories of Augustus and Cheryl for details.

Sales Break-Even Point

A common question business owners have when considering new business opportunities is this: "How much do I have to sell just to break even?" In other words, "How much revenue do I need to pay all my expenses?"

The question is not as difficult to answer as it might seem. Only three pieces of information is needed to make the calculation.

• The average price of whatever you sell.
• The average cost of whatever you sell.
• The total fixed costs your have to pay no matter what you sell.

or to state it another way…

In the case of The Fran's Ice Shoppe of Davis the Sales break-even is computed as follows:

Summary of Build-Out and Start-Up Costs

• Principal reduction on the SBA loan (in the amount of approx. $24,000 is not shown as an expense on the Inc. & Exp. Statement.
• Payroll expenses are listed under "Labor" under cost of goods sold.

Proforma Balance Sheet

Proforma Statements

Financial Summary

Equipment Schedule

User Contributions:

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Ice Cream Franchise Opportunities

People don’t just go to an ice cream store because they’re hungry. They go because they’re happy or because they want to celebrate or because they’re going on a date. It can be a reward. There’s something about it that’s just bigger than a food.

Ice cream and frozen dessert franchises offer a fun business model and a sweet way for investors to chase their professional goals.

Ice cream brings people together, either for celebrations or simply when they want to enjoy a sweet treat. Additionally, many ice cream franchises offer the opportunity for community involvement. Franchises in this area often contribute to their communities by fundraising for charity, giving out free ice cream, and hosting family fun events throughout the year.

In general, ice cream parlors can be traced back to France , while the predecessor to the modern-day ice cream shop made its first appearance in the United States in the late 1700s. The beginnings of the ice cream franchise industry, specifically, can be traced to the late 1940s—and the industry has developed in many ways over the years.

here are very few Americans who don't love ice cream and frozen desserts. These days, the demand for ice cream extends throughout the year, rather than remaining confined to the hot summer months.

Many ice cream franchise businesses have broadened their menu offerings beyond ice cream to include gourmet coffee and delicious baked goods such as breads, bagels, pretzels, and cakes.

But the big draw for the American public is the ice cream - and, although we love our vanilla, we go crazy for wild and wacky flavor combinations.

However, according to YouGov, the favorites are the traditional choices; chocolate is the top favorite, followed by vanilla, then strawberry. So, it’s never wise to ignore the basics! The ice cream franchises that really thrive build on those primary flavors and take them to new heights.

Franchise models (and non-franchised) ice cream stores now range from kiosks and ice cream trucks to store locations in retail centers . Franchises within this industry also can serve their namesake product along with milkshakes, smoothies, and a variety of desserts such as cake. Other related businesses within the industry include Italian ice, gelato (an Italian frozen yogurt similar to ice cream), and shaved ice (snow cone) franchises.

Franchises with largest market share include: Dairy Queen, Baskin-Robbins, Cold Stone Creamery, Ben & Jerry’s, Kona Ice, Jeremiah’s Italian Ice, and Rita’s Italian Ice.

Per IBISWorld, revenue for the ice cream stores industry sustained an estimated 2.5% decrease in 2020. Now, over the period of time until 2025, the industry “is expected to continue to grow, albeit at a slower rate than the previous five-year period.”

Facts About Ice Cream Franchises

The ice cream sector is projected to bring in $8.1bn in 2021, with a 3.6% growth in market size. While milk and dairy items are the principal constituents of ice cream, there's a range of health-conscious varieties of frozen dessert that attracts those trying to watch the pounds.

These days, you can get vegan and non-dairy ice creams that use plant-based milk (from nuts and seeds) rather than high-fat dairy items.

Historically, ice cream was enjoyed mainly during the summer months. However, ice cream consumption is more evenly distributed throughout the year these days. One step many ice cream franchises have taken to augment the appeal of their ice cream stores is to add sundries such as gourmet coffee and baked goods. Some franchises have expanded their products into supermarket freezer departments to increase their year-round appeal.

July is National Ice Cream Month, with National Ice Cream Day celebrated on the third Sunday of this hot summer month. As if anyone needed an excuse to indulge in their favorite ice cream, they’ve certainly got one now. The National Ice Cream celebrations were signed into existence by President Ronald Reagan in 1984 and have helped ice cream franchises thrive ever since.

The ice cream and frozen dessert franchise segments offer a business model entrenched in fun; your customers come to your store for something to pick them up, cool them down, and excite the tastebuds.

Ice cream franchises appear in a range of locations such as shopping malls, movie theaters, train and bus stations, airports, and even ice cream trucks, bringing the delights of delicious ice cream to the burbs.

Ice cream brings people together - for celebrations or just for enjoying a sweet treat and hanging out in the ice cream parlor. Many ice cream franchises offer the opportunity for community involvement by getting involved in charity fundraisers and hosting pop-ups at family events throughout the year.

Italian Ice Franchises Showing Promise

A subcategory of the industry, Italian ice franchises appeared to weather the pandemic slightly better than some other ice cream/frozen dessert franchises. The reason? Many Italian ice franchises were already smaller in scale as well as built for walk-up ordering and off site consumption.

As Rita’s Italian Ice CEO Linda Chadwick said in a May 2021 interview , “In a world where convenience, delivery, and off-premise options are king, Rita’s was poised to succeed from the start. This is because the vast majority of Rita’s locations feature walk-up ordering and outdoor spaces to enjoy our frozen treats—that’s how it has always been. Because of this, we were able to quickly adapt to implement social distancing and additional safety measures to keep our guests and teams healthy.”

How the franchise concept is positioned wasn’t lost on people looking to buy a franchise in the turmoil of the year. Rita’s signed 75 new franchise agreements in 2020.

Another Italian ice franchise that’s heating up is Jeremiah’s Italian Ice, which was able to award 100 units during its first year of franchising despite the onset of a pandemic.

Ice Cream Industry Flavor Trends

According to 2020 Innova Market Insights, 64% of U.S. consumers want to discover flavors from other cultures. When it comes to ice cream, these flavors include Mexican-inspired flavors, such as dulce de leche, mango salsa, mango chili and churro; and South Asian beverage flavors including chai, Thai tea, and matcha. Toasted rice (mainly inspired by noo-roong, a traditional Korean snack) has also popped up per KerryDigest .

Some other trending flavors in the ice cream world are flavors inspired by nature, such as floral and botanical notes. Savory flavors, like olive oil ice cream, are also gaining traction.

Dealing with Seasonality

Ice cream franchises certainly reign supreme in the summer. National Ice Cream Month in the United States is celebrated all July long, and National Ice Cream Day is celebrated the third Sunday in July. Both of these national celebrations were signed into existence by President Ronald Reagan in 1984, and ice cream franchises have been celebrating ever since.

For most of the country, ice cream and frozen yogurt are largely seasonal treats for obvious reasons. Who wants ice cream when there’s a foot (or more) of snow on the ground? However, as noted above, many franchises have turned to menu expansion to keep customers coming through the door year-round. As a result, the difference between the peaks and valleys of ice cream demand throughout the year isn’t as large as it once was.

Franchising vs. Independent

Ice cream franchises require a financial investment of varying sizes - check our selection of excellent ice cream franchise opportunities for investments from $50,000.

Of course, most of us don’t have that kind of money in our back pocket (or bank accounts), so you’ll need to apply for startup funding from banks and reputable money lenders.

Independent companies applying for startup collateral often find themselves at a disadvantage compared to franchisees who have the proven business model and financial history of the parent company to bolster their application.

Moneylenders tend to favor franchises because the business is built on verifiable and proven metrics that significantly reduce the risk of lending.

Luckily, moneylenders tend to favor franchise businesses: the business model has already proven itself popular, profitable, and sustainable.

Franchise companies tend to hit the ground running because they come with a ready-made customer base and access to an established supply chain. This means that they tend to recoup their initial investment much quicker than independent companies set up without the support of an established partner.

Almost half of all independent companies go into receivership within the first three years of trading as they struggle to establish themselves among the competition. Recoup of initial investment comes more slowly for indies, meaning that they often fold before they hit critical mass.

Ice cream franchises tend to thrive immediately, relying on the immediate visibility and familiarity of their branding, as well as a menu that local customers already know and adore.

Why You Should Consider an Ice Cream Franchise

If you’re interested in starting your own business, an ice cream franchise may be the perfect opportunity. The ice cream industry is flourishing and always popular, and you can choose from a wide range of ice cream stores with long-standing name recognition and market potential. People will already recognize and love your products, whether you opt for soft ice cream, frozen desserts, or other types of frozen treats. You’ll be able to pick up and start selling almost right away with an ice cream franchise of your own.

How to Choose the Best Franchise to Set Up in Your Area

As you think about opening your own ice cream shop, consider what is already available in your area. If there are several franchises of the same chain of ice cream, the market might not support another one. You could introduce something new and attract adventurous customers. On the other hand, though, be careful not to introduce something that doesn’t fit the culture of your region. Take some time to survey potential customers and other business owners to determine the best bet for new ice cream stores in your city.

Buying an Ice Cream Franchise

The range of investment between different frozen yogurt franchises can be due to the variations in business systems and execution requirements.

Initial costs associated with opening a franchise include the franchise fee, training expenses (such as travel and living expenses, not the actual training courses), grand opening marketing costs, and more.

A significant cost within the initial investment is the franchise fee. This part of the overall initial investment grants the franchisee the right to use the franchisor’s trademarks and other branding. It also gives the franchisee access to the franchisor’s business system, including training opportunities.

As you set up your ice cream franchise, you can increase their chances for success by performing due diligence research to understand the demographics of the area in relation to the business. In addition, experienced ice cream shop owners recommend remembering why ice cream shops have been a part of Americana for decades: the memories.

As stated in MenuDrive : “Play up the magic of ice cream by hiring warm staff members, building an inviting ice cream space, and putting your all into creating one-of-a-kind flavors that light up your customers’ day.”

How Much Does It Cost to Start an Ice Cream Franchise?

The costs of starting an ice cream franchise vary. Franchise fees can run from $25,000 to more than $100,000 depending on the chain, and you’ll also have to have a significant amount of liquid capital available to secure a site for your franchise, train and hire employees, and start marketing. You'll most likely have to consider taking out a small business loan. Talk to your bank or do research online to get an idea of current interest rates and obligations on such loans. But don’t despair. Even if this seems like a lot of money upfront, you can earn it back almost immediately as customers pour into your ice cream shop.

How Franchise Direct Can Help

At Franchise Direct, you can learn about the various ice cream franchises available. We provide information on pricing, planning, and owning your own franchise. We also offer contact information so that you can reach out to franchises that interest you for more

details. So when you’re ready to start seriously researching an ice cream franchise, turn to Franchise Direct to begin. Check out Franchise Direct's fantastic range of ice cream franchises and spread a little frozen love today!

You can also check out many more Food Franchises here on Franchise Direct, such as:

• Bakery & Donut Franchises
• Cookie Franchises
• Fast Food Franchises
• Frozen Yogurt Franchises

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Here is a free business plan sample for a fruit and vegetable store.

Have you ever envisioned owning a bustling fruit and vegetable market that serves as a cornerstone of health in your community? Wondering where to start?

Look no further, as we're about to guide you through a comprehensive business plan tailored for a fruit and vegetable market.

Creating a solid business plan is crucial for any aspiring entrepreneur. It serves as a roadmap, outlining your vision, objectives, and the strategies you'll employ to turn your fresh produce venture into a thriving business.

To jumpstart your planning process with ease and precision, feel free to utilize our fruit and vegetable market business plan template. Our team of experts is also on standby to provide a free review and fine-tuning of your plan.

How to draft a great business plan for your fruit and vegetable store?

A good business plan for a fruit and vegetable market must cater to the unique aspects of this type of retail business.

Initially, it's crucial to provide a comprehensive overview of the market landscape. This includes up-to-date statistics and an exploration of emerging trends within the industry, similar to what we've incorporated in our fruit and vegetable market business plan template .

Your business plan should articulate your vision clearly. Define your target demographic (such as local residents, restaurants, or health-conscious consumers) and establish your market's distinctive features (like offering organic produce, exotic fruits, or locally-sourced vegetables).

Market analysis is the next critical component. This requires a thorough examination of local competitors, market dynamics, and consumer buying patterns.

For a fruit and vegetable market, it's imperative to detail the range of products you intend to sell. Describe your selection of fruits, vegetables, herbs, and any additional items you plan to offer, and discuss how these choices align with the preferences and needs of your customer base.

The operational plan is equally important. It should outline the location of your market, the layout of the retail space, your supply chain for fresh produce, and inventory management practices.

Given the nature of a fruit and vegetable market, it is vital to highlight the freshness and quality of your produce, your relationships with growers and suppliers, and adherence to health and safety standards.

Then, delve into your marketing and sales strategies. How do you plan to attract and keep customers coming back? Consider your approach to promotions, customer loyalty programs, and potential value-added services (like home delivery or a juice bar).

Incorporating digital strategies, such as an online ordering system or a robust social media presence, is also crucial in the modern marketplace.

The financial section is another cornerstone of your business plan. It should encompass the initial investment, projected sales, operating expenses, and the point at which you expect to break even.

With a fruit and vegetable market, managing waste and understanding the shelf life of products are critical, so precise planning and knowledge of your financials are essential. For assistance, consider using our financial forecast for a fruit and vegetable market .

Compared to other business plans, a fruit and vegetable market plan must pay closer attention to the perishability of inventory, the importance of a robust supply chain, and the potential for seasonal fluctuations.

A well-crafted business plan not only helps you to define your strategies and vision but also plays a pivotal role in attracting investors or securing loans.

Lenders and investors are keen on a solid market analysis, realistic financial projections, and a comprehensive understanding of the day-to-day operations of a fruit and vegetable market.

By presenting a thorough and substantiated plan, you showcase your dedication and readiness for the success of your venture.

To achieve these goals while saving time, you are welcome to fill out our fruit and vegetable market business plan template .

A free example of business plan for a fruit and vegetable store

Here, we will provide a concise and illustrative example of a business plan for a specific project.

This example aims to provide an overview of the essential components of a business plan. It is important to note that this version is only a summary. As it stands, this business plan is not sufficiently developed to support a profitability strategy or convince a bank to provide financing.

To be effective, the business plan should be significantly more detailed, including up-to-date market data, more persuasive arguments, a thorough market study, a three-year action plan, as well as detailed financial tables such as a projected income statement, projected balance sheet, cash flow budget, and break-even analysis.

All these elements have been thoroughly included by our experts in the business plan template they have designed for a fruit and vegetable market .

Here, we will follow the same structure as in our business plan template.

Market Opportunity

Market data and figures.

The fruit and vegetable market is an essential and robust component of the global food industry.

Recent estimates value the global fruit and vegetable trade at over 1 trillion dollars, with expectations for continued growth as consumers seek healthier eating options. In the United States, the fruit and vegetable industry contributes significantly to the economy, with thousands of markets and stores providing a wide range of produce to meet consumer demand.

These statistics underscore the critical role that fruit and vegetable markets play in not only providing nutritious food options but also in supporting local agriculture and economies.

Current trends in the fruit and vegetable industry indicate a shift towards organic and locally sourced produce, as consumers become more health-conscious and environmentally aware.

There is an increasing demand for organic fruits and vegetables, driven by the perception of better quality and concerns about pesticides and other chemicals. The local food movement is also gaining momentum, with consumers showing a preference for produce that is grown locally to support community farmers and reduce carbon emissions associated with transportation.

Technological advancements are influencing the industry as well, with innovations in vertical farming and hydroponics allowing for more sustainable and space-efficient growing methods.

Online grocery shopping and delivery services are expanding, making it easier for consumers to access fresh produce directly from their homes.

Additionally, the push for transparency in food sourcing continues to grow, with consumers wanting to know more about where their food comes from and how it is grown.

These trends are shaping the future of the fruit and vegetable market, as businesses strive to meet the evolving preferences and values of modern consumers.

Success Factors

Several key factors contribute to the success of a fruit and vegetable market.

Quality and freshness of produce are paramount. Markets that offer a wide variety of fresh, high-quality fruits and vegetables are more likely to build and maintain a dedicated customer base.

Diversity in product offerings, including exotic or hard-to-find produce, can differentiate a market from its competitors.

Location is also vital, as markets that are easily accessible to consumers will naturally attract more foot traffic.

Customer service is another important aspect, with knowledgeable and friendly staff enhancing the shopping experience and encouraging repeat visits.

Effective cost management and the ability to adapt to changing consumer trends, such as the demand for organic and locally grown produce, are crucial for the long-term viability of a fruit and vegetable market.

The Project

Project presentation.

Our fruit and vegetable market project is designed to cater to the increasing consumer demand for fresh, organic, and locally-sourced produce. Situated in a community-focused neighborhood, our market will offer a diverse selection of fruits and vegetables, emphasizing seasonal and organic options. We will partner with local farmers and suppliers to ensure that our customers have access to the freshest produce available, supporting sustainable agricultural practices and reducing our carbon footprint.

We aim to provide not just produce, but a holistic healthy eating experience by offering a range of complementary products such as herbs, spices, and artisanal condiments. Our market will be a hub for health-conscious consumers and those interested in cooking with the finest ingredients.

Our fruit and vegetable market is set to become a cornerstone in the community, promoting healthier lifestyles and fostering connections between local producers and consumers.

Value Proposition

The value proposition of our fruit and vegetable market lies in our commitment to providing the community with the highest quality fresh produce. We understand the importance of nutrition and the role that fruits and vegetables play in maintaining a healthy diet.

Our market will offer a unique shopping experience where customers can enjoy a wide variety of produce, learn about the benefits of incorporating more fruits and vegetables into their diets, and discover new and exotic varieties. We are dedicated to creating a welcoming environment where everyone can find something to enrich their meals and support their well-being.

By focusing on local and organic sourcing, we also contribute to the sustainability of our food systems and the prosperity of local farmers, aligning our business with the values of environmental stewardship and community support.

Project Owner

The project owner is an individual with a profound passion for healthy living and community engagement. With a background in agricultural studies and experience in the food retail industry, they are well-equipped to establish a market that prioritizes quality and freshness.

They bring a wealth of knowledge about the seasonality and sourcing of produce, and are committed to creating a marketplace that reflects the diversity and richness of nature's offerings. Their dedication to health, nutrition, and sustainability drives them to build a market that not only sells fruits and vegetables but also educates and inspires the community to embrace a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle.

Their vision is to create a space where the joy of fresh, wholesome food is accessible to all, and where the market serves as a vibrant gathering place for people to connect with their food and each other.

The Market Study

Market segments.

The market segments for this fruit and vegetable market are diverse and cater to a wide range of consumers.

Firstly, there are health-conscious individuals who prioritize fresh, organic produce in their diets for wellness and nutritional benefits.

Secondly, the market serves customers who are looking for locally-sourced and seasonal produce to support community farmers and reduce their carbon footprint.

Additionally, the market attracts individuals with specific dietary needs, such as vegans, vegetarians, and those with food sensitivities who require a variety of fresh produce options.

Culinary professionals, including chefs and caterers, represent another segment, seeking high-quality ingredients to enhance their dishes.

SWOT Analysis

A SWOT analysis of the fruit and vegetable market project highlights several key factors.

Strengths include a strong focus on fresh, high-quality produce, relationships with local farmers, and a commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly practices.

Weaknesses might involve the perishable nature of inventory, the need for constant supply chain management, and potential seasonal fluctuations in product availability.

Opportunities exist in expanding the market's reach through online sales and delivery services, as well as in educating consumers about the benefits of eating fresh and local produce.

Threats could include competition from larger grocery chains with more buying power, adverse weather affecting crop yields, and potential economic downturns reducing consumer spending on premium produce.

Competitor Analysis

Competitor analysis in the fruit and vegetable market sector indicates a varied landscape.

Direct competitors include other local markets, organic food stores, and large supermarkets with extensive produce sections.

These competitors vie for customers who value convenience, variety, and price.

Potential competitive advantages for our market include superior product freshness, strong community ties, exceptional customer service, and a focus on sustainable and ethical sourcing.

Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of these competitors is crucial for carving out a niche and ensuring customer loyalty.

Competitive Advantages

Our fruit and vegetable market's dedication to offering the freshest and highest quality produce sets us apart from the competition.

We provide a wide array of fruits and vegetables, including rare and exotic items, to cater to the diverse tastes and needs of our customers.

Our commitment to sustainability, through supporting local farmers and minimizing waste, resonates with environmentally conscious consumers.

We also emphasize transparency and education about the source and benefits of our produce, fostering a trusting relationship with our clientele.

You can also read our articles about: - how to open a fruit and vegetable store: a complete guide - the customer segments of a fruit and vegetable store - the competition study for a fruit and vegetable store

The Strategy

Development plan.

Our three-year development plan for the fresh fruit and vegetable market is designed to promote healthy living within the community.

In the first year, our goal is to establish a strong local presence by sourcing a wide variety of high-quality, seasonal produce and building relationships with local farmers and suppliers.

The second year will focus on expanding our reach by setting up additional market locations and possibly introducing mobile market services to access a broader customer base.

In the third year, we plan to diversify our offerings by including organic and exotic fruits and vegetables, as well as implementing educational programs on nutrition and sustainable agriculture.

Throughout this period, we will be committed to sustainability, community engagement, and providing exceptional service to ensure we become a staple in our customers' healthy lifestyles.

Business Model Canvas

The Business Model Canvas for our fruit and vegetable market targets health-conscious consumers and those looking for fresh, local produce.

Our value proposition is centered on offering the freshest, high-quality fruits and vegetables, with a focus on local and organic options, and providing exceptional customer service.

We will sell our products through our physical market locations and consider an online ordering system for customer convenience, utilizing our key resources such as our relationships with local farmers and our knowledgeable staff.

Key activities include sourcing and curating produce, maintaining quality control, and engaging with the community.

Our revenue streams will be generated from the sales of produce, while our costs will be associated with procurement, operations, and marketing efforts.

Access a complete and editable real Business Model Canvas in our business plan template .

Marketing Strategy

Our marketing strategy is centered on community engagement and education.

We aim to highlight the health benefits of fresh produce and the environmental advantages of buying locally. Our approach includes community events, cooking demonstrations, and partnerships with local health and wellness organizations.

We will also leverage social media to showcase our daily offerings, share tips on healthy eating, and feature stories from our partner farmers.

Additionally, we plan to offer loyalty programs and seasonal promotions to encourage repeat business and attract new customers.

Risk Policy

The risk policy for our fruit and vegetable market focuses on mitigating risks associated with perishable goods, supply chain management, and market fluctuations.

We will implement strict quality control measures and develop a robust inventory management system to minimize waste and ensure product freshness.

Building strong relationships with a diverse group of suppliers will help us manage supply risks and price volatility.

We will also maintain a conservative financial strategy to manage operational costs effectively and ensure business sustainability.

Insurance coverage will be in place to protect against unforeseen events that could impact our business operations.

Why Our Project is Viable

We believe in the viability of a fruit and vegetable market that prioritizes freshness, quality, and community health.

With a growing trend towards healthy eating and local sourcing, our market is well-positioned to meet consumer demand.

We are committed to creating a shopping experience that supports local agriculture and provides educational value to our customers.

Adaptable to market trends and customer feedback, we are excited about the potential of our fruit and vegetable market to become a cornerstone of healthy living in our community.

You can also read our articles about: - the Business Model Canvas of a fruit and vegetable store - the marketing strategy for a fruit and vegetable store

The Financial Plan

Of course, the text presented below is far from sufficient to serve as a solid and credible financial analysis for a bank or potential investor. They expect specific numbers, financial statements, and charts demonstrating the profitability of your project.

All these elements are available in our business plan template for a fruit and vegetable market and our financial plan for a fruit and vegetable market .

Initial expenses for our fruit and vegetable market include costs for securing a retail space in a high-traffic area, purchasing refrigeration units and display equipment to maintain and showcase fresh produce, obtaining necessary permits and licenses, investing in a robust inventory management system, and launching marketing initiatives to attract customers to our location.

Our revenue assumptions are based on an in-depth analysis of the local market demand for fresh, high-quality fruits and vegetables, taking into account the increasing trend towards healthy eating and organic produce.

We expect sales to grow steadily as we establish our market's reputation for offering a wide variety of fresh and locally sourced produce.

The projected income statement outlines expected revenues from the sale of fruits and vegetables, cost of goods sold (including procurement, transportation, and storage), and operating expenses (rent, marketing, salaries, utilities, etc.).

This results in a forecasted net profit that is essential for assessing the long-term viability of our fruit and vegetable market.

The projected balance sheet will reflect assets such as refrigeration and display equipment, inventory of fresh produce, and liabilities including any loans and operational expenses.

It will provide a snapshot of the financial condition of our market at the end of each fiscal period.

Our projected cash flow statement will detail all cash inflows from sales and outflows for expenses, helping us to predict our financial needs and ensure we have sufficient funds to operate smoothly.

The projected financing plan will outline the sources of funding we intend to tap into to cover our initial setup costs and any additional financing needs.

The working capital requirement for our market will be carefully managed to maintain adequate liquidity for day-to-day operations, such as purchasing fresh stock, managing inventory, and covering staff wages.

The break-even analysis will determine the volume of sales we need to achieve to cover all our costs and begin generating a profit, marking the point at which our market becomes financially sustainable.

Key performance indicators we will monitor include the turnover rate of our inventory, the gross margin on produce sales, the current ratio to evaluate our ability to meet short-term obligations, and the return on investment to gauge the profitability of the capital invested in our market.

These metrics will be instrumental in assessing the financial performance and overall success of our fruit and vegetable market.

If you want to know more about the financial analysis of this type of activity, please read our article about the financial plan for a fruit and vegetable store .

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Historic Images of Moscow, Idaho

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• Roger's Ice Cream Shop

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Get the most of your stay in Moscow

The Best Ice Cream in Moscow – Top Places for Summer 2019

Where to eat in moscow: ice cream.

Moscow is getting warmer and warmer every day so I selected places with the most delicious and cool ice cream in the city. I personally love ice-cream and enjoy a lot having one during a sunny day. What could be better than a cold and tasty dessert?

1. Cafe Gelateria My Gelato (previously called Plombir)

Café My Gelato is a sweet piece of Italy, because here they cook by hand according to the recipes of the Italian master Sergio Dondoli. The menu offers a large selection of desserts: sixty varieties of gelato and sorbets, cocktails, cheesecakes, macaroons and cakes! They also use seasonal fruits, berries, nuts, chocolate, vegetables and spices. That is why the tastes are totally unique and special. For example, in “My Gelato” you can take a chance and try a pumpkin ice cream or a basil ice cream.

How to find: • Kurskaya metro, Atrium Shopping Mall, Zemlyanoy val , 33, 4th floor, to the left of the escalator, next to the CROCS store • Lubyanka metro, Gastromarket “ Vokrug Sveta “, Nikolskaya , 10 • Dobryninskaya metro, Pyatnitskaya , 73 • Voykovskaya metro, METROPOLIS Shopping mall, Leningradskoye Hwy, 16a ‌ • Okhotny Ryad metro, Okhotny Ryad Shopping mall, Manezhnaya Sq, 1/2 • Tulskaya metro, Danilovsky Market, Mytnaya , 74 • Krasnoselskaya metro, Troika Shopping Mall, Verkhnyaya Krasnoselskaya , 3a • Park Kultury metro, Lva Tolstogo , 18b ‌ • CSKA metro, Aviapark Shopping mall, Khodynsky blvrd , 4 • Kutuzovskaya metro, President Plaza Business center, Kutuzovsky Ave, 32 • Aeroport Metro, Leningradsky Ave, 48 • Frunzenskaya metro, Malaya Pirogovskaya , 21 • Belorusskaya metro, Aleksandra Nevskogo , 1 • Gorky Park and Muzeon Park For more information visit the official website

2. Chaynaya Vysota Tea House

“ Chaynaya Vysota ” or “Tea Height” was opened more than ten years ago. For all these years the club remains a perfect place for fans of tea and unusual ice cream. In the menu you can find about 250 types of tea of ​​all varieties and also an impressive selection of ice cream. The have ice cream with the taste of cloudberry, marshmallow, cactus, birch sap, banana, green wheat, white kvass and many others. Also in “Chaynaya Vysota” people play chess, watch movies, listen to music and the atmosphere is very nice.

How to find: Chistie Prudy metro, Pokrovka , 27/1 Official website

3. Cafe Gelateria Casa Leone

Casa Leone doesn’t  add chemical ingredients to their ice cream. It has a huge variety of flavors. From the classical chocolate flavor to very unusual ones. In the café they also serve hot dishes in case if you came with a hungry friend.

How to find: Kitay Gorod metro, Lubyansky dr, 15/ 2 Official website

4. Restaurant La Bottega Siciliana

La Bottega Siciliana is a restaurant of Italian cuisine. For dessert they offer homemade gelato, prepared according to company recipes (the chef also comes from Italy). At Bottega Siciliana guests are offered ice cream from basil, pineapple, passion fruit, mango, tiramisu and many others.  Gelato is available for take away – in a waffle cup.

How to find: Okhotny Ryad metro, Okhotny Ryad , 2 Official website

5. Conversation cafe

Conversation cafe is often full of people during warm days. They offer unusual frozen cheesecakes on a stick, ice cream cakes, complex designs of pies with ice cream, various types of sorbets. And they prepare it right in front of you. In addition the menu has plenty of other tasty desserts. It is better to come hungry!

How to find: Arbatskaya or Tverskaya metro, Bolshaya Nikitskaya 23/14

 6. Chain 33 Penguins

33 Penguins offer a huge selection of desserts made of cream, milk or juice. Some of the flavors they have: cheesecake, chewing gum, watermelon, melon, banana, cherry, pear, maple syrup, grapes, cheese, blueberries … Also, the “Penguins” make really good milkshakes try them out if you don’t fancy having an ice cream.

How to find: • Okhotny Ryad metro, Okhotny Ryad Shopping mall, Manezhnaya Sq, 1/2 • Arbatskaya metro, Arbat , 18 The other addresses are a bit away from the city center, so I suggest you to check Google Map Official website

7. Gelateria Amore

Every portion of ice cream in Amore is a true work of art. Here you can find Sicilian pistachio, cherries with chocolate, mango, peanuts, tiramisu, Caribbean rum with raisins … The list is endless. They have a special cooking technique: less cream, more milk and fruits, eventually it gives less fat and more flavor.

How to find: Universitet metro, Vernadskogo Ave, 11/19 Official website

8. Tim n Tim Ice Cream

Journalists call Tim & Tim the most fashionable ice cream in Moscow. Why? Because of the black color ice cream that has a unique taste. In last years this black ice cream went viral and everyone wanted to try it. The creators added coal to the recipe: they experimented a lot and made a nice bl ack color ice cream with a very nice (and unusual) taste.  I personally like it. Also in Tim & Tim you can try other flavors. How to find: Delovoy Tsentr metro, Presnenskaya emb ., 10 Official website

9. Baskin Robbins

A huge network of Baskin Robbins in Moscow and the Moscow region. The first cafe “Baskin Robbins” was opened in 1945 in America. This is not the most amazing ice cream in the world but the quality is good and actually it is tasty.

How to find: Delovoy Tsentr metro, Presnenskaya emb ., 10 Official website

My experience

I am an ice cream lover! I love to have ice cream in summer while walking in a park, I love to have ice cream in winter while watching a romantic movie. My favorite ice cream in the world is in Italy. But these places for ice creams and gelatos in Moscow I highly recommend to go and try!

If you are thinking where to have lunch check where to eat cheap in Moscow

6 thoughts on “The Best Ice Cream in Moscow – Top Places for Summer 2019”

As I am a Icecream lover I got good information about Moscow which are the best places to eat icecream Thanks Great Job

Thank you Bhavviik for your feedback! I am happy you found my post useful!

I read your article, I loved it very much. I have never gone out of India and have no interest in ice cream too. But it seems that you love ice cream. What else do you do besides this? This is my prayer to my God that you get complete success in your work, you always be healthy and happy.

Thank you very much fot your comment! I hope one day you will come and visit Russia! Thanks for the wishes!

I’m visiting Moscow this July and following your blog closely to plan my trip. I am fond of ice creams as well and will definitely try some of the ice cream parlors which you have mentioned! I even wrote you a thank you note on facebook 🙂 Keep writing, it’s really helpful!

Thank you Aditya for your feedback!! I am happy that you found my post helpful!! I hope you will enjoy the ice cream in Moscow as much as I do haha

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