Kilwins Franchise Brings Families Into Business

Two Families Turn Their Love of Sweets Into Businesses That Bring People Together

Kilwins has long built its appeal around experiences families can enjoy together, from watching fudge and other confections being made to choosing chocolates, caramel apples or a scoop of ice cream. With its old-fashioned candy-shop feel and focus on handcrafted treats, the franchise gives families an easy way to slow down and enjoy a little time together.

Americans clearly have a sweet tooth. According to the National Confectioners Association, 99.8% of U.S. households purchased chocolate, candy or other confectionery products at least once in 2025. For Kilwins franchise owners, those treats offer an opportunity to create memorable experiences that keep families coming back.

Trey and Danielle Lemon (above) own four Kilwins locations along the Gulf Coast, including Orange Beach and Portside at the Wharf in Orange Beach, Ala., and Pensacola Beach and Pensacola, Fla.

An Early Connection

Trey’s connection to Kilwins began years before he became a franchisee. After earning a degree in physical education, he taught physical education and health before taking a second job at a Kilwins in Wilmington, N.C. There, he learned to make fudge, caramel apples, brittles and other handcrafted treats.

“I still remember looking at the map of Kilwins locations hanging on the wall and thinking, ‘It would be really fun to own one of these someday,’” he says.

Years later, in 2018, when Trey and Danielle were ready for a career change, they decided to pursue the idea. Today, they focus on making their stores places families look forward to visiting.

“Families are the reason we’re here,” Trey says. “We believe Kilwins should be an experience, not just a place to buy ice cream.”

The Lemons also stay involved in the communities they serve, donating products to schools, teacher appreciation programs, nonprofits and fundraisers. In Orange Beach, their Scoops for Scholars program recognizes honor roll students with a special treat.

For Trey, one of the best parts of ownership is seeing customers return year after year. “We love seeing familiar faces, watching kids grow up and becoming part of our guests’ traditions,” he says.

From Employee to Franchise Owner

For Elizabeth Bartlett and her parents, Jenn and Mark, Kilwins has been part of their lives for years. “Kilwins was my first job at 16, and I decided to transfer to ownership at age 19 simply going on faith and the love I already had for the store,” Elizabeth says.

Elizabeth Bartlett with her niece and nephew, Levi, 2 and Lucy 6 months.

Elizabeth and her parents took over the Grapevine, Texas, store in 2022. In May 2025, they expanded their business with the opening of Kilwins in Waco, Texas.

As a family team, they have focused on creating an environment that feels welcoming to both employees and customers. Elizabeth especially wants younger team members to feel comfortable at work, enjoy their shifts and develop strong relationships with one another.

“We’re very big into creating a safe environment for our team members where they can come and enjoy a shift while forgetting their own personal stuff for a couple hours,” she says. “We have a lot of fun on shift, and customers can feel that love when they walk in.”

The Bartletts also make an effort to stay involved in their communities. They participate in local events, donate to area causes and attend chamber meetings to build personal relationships. “We’re just a small family doing something that we love,” she says.

Serving families brings plenty of fun to the workday, especially when children come through the doors. “The kids are by far the most enjoyable part of each day,” Elizabeth says. Their smiles, excitement and funny comments help make the stores lively places for employees and customers alike.

Learn more about Kilwins.