FRANCHISE RESALES

Buy a Kona Ice Franchise

Kona Ice is a leading mobile shaved ice franchise founded in 2007 in Northern Kentucky by Tony Lamb, who reimagined the traditional ice cream truck with a colorful, engaging, and healthier shaved ice experience. The business quickly grew, awarding its first franchises in 2008 and expanding to over 1,400 trucks and 1,500 service stations across 43 states and Canada by 2022. Kona Ice is known for its patented Flavorwave dispenser, allowing customers to customize their shaved ice with a variety of flavors that contain 60% less sugar than typical snow cones and can be made with 100% fruit juice in select locations. The company has donated over $100 million to local schools and nonprofits, emphasizing community involvement.

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Why buy a Kona Ice Franchise?

Owning a Kona Ice franchise offers a unique opportunity to join the largest mobile food franchise in the world with a proven, scalable business model. Franchisees enjoy flexibility, strong brand recognition, and a mission-driven company that supports local communities through significant charitable giving. The combination of innovative product offerings, operational support, and a fun, engaging customer experience makes Kona Ice a compelling investment in the fast-growing frozen treats industry.

Kona Ice Franchise Costs & Information

Based on 2024 data reported in the 2025 FDD

  • Brand Profile

    • Year Founded

      2007

    • Franchising Since

      2008

    • New Startup Cost

      $178,856 – $226,841

    • Avg. Resale Price

      Contact us for details

  • Franchise Fees

    • Initial franchise Fee

      $15,000

      for new territories

    • Transfer Fee

      $7,500

      or $10,000 + $1,000 per additional equipment

    • Royalty Fee

      $3,000 – $5,000

      Increases over time

    • Marketing Fee

      $500

      per Year, plus $200 per year for each piece of additional equipment

  • Unit Performance

    • Total Units *

      1820

    • New Units Opened *

      182

    • Units Transferred *

      94

    • Avg. Unit revenue *

      Not Disclosed

    * Based on 2024 data reported in the 2025 FDD

Kona Ice – Additional  Information

  1. Training & Support

    Kona Ice offers comprehensive support including initial and ongoing training, sales and marketing programs, and financing options for qualified entrepreneurs. Franchisees benefit from a proven business model with flexible scheduling, multiple unit types (trucks, kiosks, trailers), and robust operational guidance. The brand consistently ranks #1 in franchisee satisfaction and provides a strong network for growth.

  2. Ideal Owner

    The ideal Kona Ice franchisee is an entrepreneur seeking a flexible, low-overhead business with a passion for community engagement. No prior foodservice experience is required, but strong customer service skills and a commitment to brand values are essential. Initial investment ranges from approximately $149,000 to $189,000 with a $15,000 franchise fee.

  3. Recognition & Awards

    Kona Ice has been recognized on Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500 list for ten consecutive years, ranked among the fastest-growing franchises in the U.S., and received multiple honors from Franchise Business Review including Most Innovative Franchises, Top Franchises for Veterans, and Top Food Franchises. They were also recognized by Franchise Business Review as one of the Top 200 Franchises in 2026.

  4. Industry / Market

    The frozen treats market is expanding as consumers seek fun, customizable, and healthier dessert options. Kona Ice’s mobile model and community-focused philanthropy position it well to capitalize on growing demand, especially in warmer climates and new markets along coastlines.

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