FRANCHISE RESALES

Buy a Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard Franchise

Rita’s Italian Ice, founded in 1984 by former firefighter Bob Tumolo, is the largest Italian Ice franchise globally, with over 580 locations across 31 states and internationally. Known for its signature Italian ice made fresh daily with real fruit, Rita’s also offers frozen custard, blended drinks, and specialty desserts like Gelati and Blendini. The brand’s unique product mix and colorful, fun atmosphere have cultivated a loyal following. Rita’s business model emphasizes simple operations with no cooking, low labor costs, and high margins, making it accessible to entrepreneurs. Franchisees benefit from a scalable system with catering and mobile sales opportunities, allowing expansion beyond the storefront. The brand continues to grow under private equity ownership, seeking franchisees to expand its footprint.

Latest Resales

Why buy a Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard Franchise?

Investing in Rita’s Italian Ice offers a proven, recession-resistant franchise with a strong brand, unique product offerings, and a scalable business model. Low operational complexity and high margins make it attractive for first-time and experienced franchisees alike. Franchisees benefit from national marketing, ongoing support, and multiple revenue channels, including catering and mobile sales. Rita’s continued expansion and private equity backing position it for long-term growth in the competitive frozen dessert market.

Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard Franchise Costs & Information

Based on 2024 data reported in the 2025 FDD

  • Brand Profile

    • Year Founded

      1984

    • Franchising Since

      1989

    • New Startup Cost

      $315,233 – $770,542

    • Avg. Resale Price

      Contact us for details

  • Franchise Fees

    • Initial franchise Fee

      $35,000

      for new territories

    • Transfer Fee

      50%

      of then-current Initial Franchise Fee (same shop type)

    • Royalty Fee

      6.50%

      of Gross Sales

    • Marketing Fee

      3%

      of Gross Sales

  • Unit Performance

    • Total Units *

      569

    • New Units Opened *

      30

    • Units Transferred *

      31

    • Avg. Unit revenue *

      Not Disclosed

    * Based on 2024 data reported in the 2025 FDD

Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard – Additional  Information

  1. Training & Support

    Rita’s provides comprehensive training covering operations, marketing, and customer service, plus support in site selection, lease negotiation, and grand openings. Franchisees gain access to proprietary recipes, operational systems, and national marketing campaigns. Ongoing assistance includes digital marketing, social media, and loyalty program support. The brand’s simple preparation process reduces complexity, enabling franchisees to hire and train staff efficiently.

  2. Ideal Owner

    The ideal Rita’s franchisee is a motivated entrepreneur with a minimum net worth of approximately $300,000 and liquid capital around $100,000. Prior foodservice experience is helpful but not required due to the brand’s thorough training and simple operations. Successful owners are community-oriented, customer-focused, and ready to manage a fun, fast-paced retail environment.

  3. Recognition & Awards

    Ranked #273 in the 2025 Entrepreneur Franchise 500 (up from #424), Rita’s is recognized for its steady growth and strong franchisee satisfaction. It is celebrated for creating a unique niche in the frozen dessert industry and maintaining a cult-like following. The brand’s recognition as a top frozen dessert franchise underscores its market leadership.

  4. Industry / Market

    The frozen dessert industry is a nearly $30 billion market, with growing consumer demand for healthier, customizable treats. Rita’s Italian Ice occupies a unique position with its fresh, fat-free, and cholesterol-free products. The brand’s scalability and diverse revenue streams, including catering and mobile events, align with trends favoring convenience and experiential dining, supporting sustained growth.

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