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When did Rita's Italian Ice open?
Guests have been loving our product since the first Rita’s opened in Philadelphia in 1984.
Why is Rita's so successful?
Rita’s has thrived because we provide unique frozen desserts that combine the best of American and Italian dessert traditions. The result is an experience unlike any other that has earned Rita’s a cult-like following. Rita’s has also thrived thanks to a business model that helps entrepreneurs start and grow a business that they love. Our walk-up and drive-thru options help make it a simple-to-run, simple-to-grow business model, while our walk-in and mobile options make it a great fit for entrepreneurs who are looking for a fun, community-oriented business.
Why do people choose Rita's?
Customers choose Rita’s because we are a friendly business with unique frozen treats. In the Northeast, we are an institution, thanks to three decades of happy customers who know what to expect. In newer markets, we have a unique advantage: We are unique!
Is Rita's ice cream a walk-in?
Rita’s has thrived since 1984 thanks to our unique frozen desserts like our silky Italian ice and creamy frozen custard. Additionally, our walk-up and drive-thru options help make it a simple-to-run, simple-to-grow business model, while our walk-in and mobile options make it an excellent fit for entrepreneurs who are looking for a fun, community-oriented business.
Is Rita's frozen custard a franchise?
Depending on where you live, a frozen custard and Italian ice franchise may sound like a brand new concept. But Rita’s franchisees have been thriving for more than three decades. The recipe for success is fairly simple: Combine unique frozen treats and smiling service with a commitment to engaging with the community — and watch the smiles become contagious!
How long does it take to open a Rita's store?
How long will you have to prepare before you can open your Rita’s store? According to the company, the typical length of time is about 6 to 9 months. The process during this period includes:
How much does Rita training cost?
You will be trained by the company in their headquarters at Philadelphia. The training cost runs from $500 to $5,000. This price includes lodging, food, and automobile mileage for two.
When did Rita's Italian Ice open?
Guests have been loving our product since the first Rita’s opened in Philadelphia in 1984. Since then, Rita’s franchisees have opened close to 600 units that dish out happiness alongside ...
Why is Rita's so successful?
Rita’s has thrived because we provide unique frozen desserts that combine the best of American and Italian dessert traditions. The result is an experience unlike any other that has earned Rita’s a cult-like following. Rita’s has also thrived thanks to a business model that helps entrepreneurs start and grow a business that they love.
What do franchisees receive before opening?
Before opening, new franchisees receive assistance evaluating business locations. They receive initial training to help them run the business. Then they receive ongoing support to help them master their skills, and increase revenue and profitability.
Is Rita's frozen custard a franchise?
Depending on where you live, a frozen custard and Italian ice franchise may sound like a brand new concept. But Rita’s franchisees have been thriving for more than three decades. The recipe for success is fairly simple: Combine unique frozen treats and smiling service with a commitment to engaging with the community — and watch the smiles become contagious!
Background
Rita's Italian Ice is continuing to expand nationwide with 600 locations in 30+ states. Italian Ice and Frozen Custard are the two core products all of the treats on our menu, which helps simplify operations and keep our food costs low, both in terms of inventory and food waste.
Company Details
Established: 1984 First Unit Franchised: 1989 Franchised Units: 600 Company Owned Units: 0 States Available : Arizona - AZ Arkansas - AR California - CA (not available in Ventura county) Colorado - CO Connecticut - CT Delaware - DE Florida ‐ FL (not available the counties of: Brevard, Citrus, DeSoto, Escambia, Hardee,Hernando, Hillsborough, Highlands, Indian River, Lake, Manatee, Martin, Okeechobee, Orange, Osceola, Palm Beach, Pasco, Pinellas, Sarasota, Seminole, St.
Support and Training Offered By Rita's Italian Ice
The Initial Training consists of online training, 5 to 6 days of training at the Cool University training facility located in Trevose, Pennsylvania and at least 4 days of in-shop training at a Certified Shop.
Franchises Similar to Rita's Italian Ice
The International Franchise Professionals Group (IFPG) is an internationally recognized membership-based franchise organization. IFPG Franchise Consultants guide aspiring business owners through the process of identifying and investing in franchise businesses. The IFPG represents more than 550 franchises.
How much does it cost to franchise Rita's Italian Ice?
The minimum you would expect to invest in a Rita's Italian Ice location is $140,500. The most the franchisor could ask you to invest is $414,200 if you want to become a franchisee.
When did Rita's Ice start?
In 1984 Rita’s opened its first store with the simple intention to offer the best tasting, high quality Italian Ice around. Today, they own the category they virtually created, with over 500 open stores and 400 in development. Start your business!
What is Rita's signature product?
Rita’s signature product is their Italian Ice, which is much smoother than a snow cone and combines ice with real fresh fruit; made fresh daily at each location and served within 36-hours of mixing.
What is Capriotti's sandwich shop?
Capriotti's Sandwich Shop is known for its unique culture, family-friendly atmosphere, high-quality ingredients, and a commitment to delivering outstanding customer service. If you’re looking to own a restaurant franchise with a sound business model, a low investment, high ROI, and food you’re always proud to serve, Capriotti's is the perfect opportunity for you.
Is Rita's Italian Ice a franchise?
Rita's Italian Ice is listed in the Franchise Directory under the Food category. It's also listed in the section for Franchises Under $150,000 .
Rita’s Franchise Startup Fee
Location Costs
- Similar to Rita’s franchise startup fee, the location costs vary depending on the type of unit. To better imagine what prototype will work for you, here are descriptions of each shop: 1. Standard shop 2. This unit offers walk-up and walk-in services, has a full menu, and a production area. The ideal area size is 600 to 1,200 sqft. 3. Express unit 4. This unit typically offers walk-up service, is …
Equipment
- Securing equipment for your shop is necessary to operate the business. The expense costs about $35,000 to $105,000 if you’re putting up a standard Rita’s store. According to Franchise Chatter, the lower average applies to second-hand equipment. The higher end, on the other hand, already includes the purchase of 2 Point-of-Sale (POS) system terminals (in place of 2 cash registers).
Other Opening Costs
- Putting up standard shop is no mean feat, as far as costs are concerned. Aside from the franchise fee, location, and equipment, you also need to spend on the following: 1. Computer (hardware and software): $900 2. Permits and licenses (for building, zoning, business operations): $100 to $1,800 3. Signs and awnings (including interior and exterior artworks and graphics): $5,000 to $…
Training
- You as a franchise owner and your manager/s should also undergo Rita’s standard initial training program. You will be trained by the company in their headquarters at Philadelphia. The training cost runs from $500 to $5,000. This price includes lodging, food, and automobile mileage for two.
Additional Fees
- Aside from Rita’s franchise startup fee, you will be responsible for paying the following obligations: 1. Royalty fee: 6.5% 2. Advertising fee: 3% 3. Renewal fee: 50% of initial franchise fee You may check other ongoing and opening fees using the latest Franchise Disclosure Document of the company. The franchisor usually gives a copy of the FDD midway of the approval process.