Top 25 Ice Cream Franchises to Own in 2025

The ice cream franchise industry continues to thrive, presenting lucrative opportunities for entrepreneurs worldwide. In 2021, the global ice cream market was valued at $71.52 billion and is projected to reach $104.96 billion by 2029, reflecting a significant 46% increase.

Franchises such as Baskin-Robbins, Ben & Jerry's and Dairy Queen have established strong brand recognition and expansive networks, making them attractive options for potential franchisees. For instance, Baskin-Robbins operates over 7,800 locations globally, offering a diverse range of flavors that cater to various consumer preferences.

The industry's resilience and adaptability underscore its appeal to entrepreneurs seeking scalable and profitable business models. With a variety of concepts ranging from traditional ice cream parlors to innovative nitrogen-frozen desserts, the ice cream franchise sector offers diverse opportunities for investment.

Top ice cream franchises

These top 25 ice cream and frozen dessert franchises stand out with strong brand loyalty, proven operational success and flexible store models, making them ideal choices for aspiring franchise owners.

Franchise options and details

Best known for its ButterBurgers, Culver’s also serves rich, creamy frozen custard made fresh throughout the day. The brand has a loyal following and offers franchisees strong operational support.

A global icon, Dairy Queen combines soft-serve ice cream with a full food menu. Franchisees benefit from decades of brand recognition and proven success in the quick-service industry.

• Unit Count: 16

Chill-N uses liquid nitrogen to flash-freeze custom ice cream orders in seconds, creating a fresh and interactive experience. The brand differentiates itself with its innovative approach to ice cream production.

• Unit Count: 120+

With nearly 80 years of history, Handel’s delivers premium homemade ice cream with strong unit economics. Franchisees join a legacy brand with a proven model for profitability and high customer satisfaction.

• Unit Count: 1,900+ trucks

A mobile franchise, Kona Ice serves tropical shaved ice from vibrant food trucks. The business model offers low overhead and strong community engagement opportunities, making it a favorite for events and fundraisers.

• Unit Count: 320+

As one of America’s first ice cream franchises, Carvel is famous for its soft serve and signature ice cream cakes. Franchisees tap into a well-loved brand with a strong tradition of innovation.

• Unit Count: 900+

Cold Stone revolutionized ice cream with its unique mix-in concept, where customers can customize their orders on a frozen granite stone. The brand stands out with its interactive customer experience and premium ice cream.

• Unit Count: 27

Sub Zero eliminates the need for freezers by flash-freezing liquid ice cream bases in front of customers. This hyper-customizable concept offers franchisees lower operational costs and a unique customer experience

• Unit Count: 200

Bruster’s serves 24 flavors daily from a rotating selection of 150 handcrafted recipes. Franchisees have flexible store build-out options, including stand-alone and endcap models.

• Unit Count: 250+

Marble Slab offers unlimited mix-ins to create custom ice cream flavors, served fresh on a frozen slab. The franchise also provides ice cream cakes, sundaes, and milkshakes to appeal to a broad audience.

• Unit count: 500+

Famous for its creative flavors and social activism, Ben & Jerry’s offers franchisees the chance to bring its premium ice cream beyond grocery stores. Scoop Shops serve cones, bowls, milkshakes, and ice cream cakes in high-traffic locations.

• Unit Count: 25

Specializing in premium frozen custard, Andy's offers drive-thru, walk-up ordering, and outdoor seating. The brand focuses on multi-unit development, making it ideal for experienced franchise operators.

• Unit Count: 7,800+

As one of the world’s largest ice cream franchises, Baskin-Robbins is known for its 31 flavors and variety of frozen treats. As part of Inspire Brands, franchisees benefit from strong corporate backing and a recognized brand name.

• Unit Count: 200+

Häagen-Dazs sets itself apart with ultra-premium ice cream made from high-quality ingredients. The brand’s small-footprint stores offer franchisees a scalable business model with global brand recognition.

• Unit Count: 350+

Sweet Frog offers self-serve frozen yogurt with dozens of flavors and toppings. Franchisees join a fun, family-friendly brand with a strong presence in the frozen dessert industry.

• Unit Count: 100+

Frios specializes in gourmet popsicles with creative flavors, sold through mobile “Sweet Ride” vans. Franchisees enjoy a flexible business model that includes events, home delivery and wholesale opportunities.

• Unit Count: 540+

Menchie’s is a self-serve frozen yogurt franchise with over 100 rotating flavors, including dairy-free and no-sugar-added options. The brand emphasizes simplicity, making it an accessible opportunity for franchisees.

Combining frozen custard with a full menu of steakburgers, Freddy’s offers a strong dual-revenue stream for franchisees. The brand has built a loyal customer base with its classic American fare.

• Unit Count: 550+

Rita's specializes in Italian ice, frozen custard, and layered gelati, appealing to a broad demographic. With a proven track record and a mobile franchise option, Rita’s provides flexibility for franchisees.

• Franchise Website

• Initial Investment: $250,000 - $300,000

• Unit Count: 70+

Whit’s offers small-batch frozen custard made fresh daily with simple, high-quality ingredients. Franchisees enjoy a streamlined menu and a low-cost entry into the frozen dessert space.

• Initial Investment: $350,567 - $721,000

• Unit Count: 150+

Jeremiah’s blends Italian ice with soft-serve ice cream to create its signature gelati. Franchisees benefit from a flexible store model and in-store production that helps keep costs low.

• Initial Investment: $379,785 - $677,456

• Unit Count: 35+

With over 100 years of history, Abbott’s serves rich, slow-churned frozen custard in a variety of formats. Franchisees tap into a legacy brand with a focus on community-driven business.

• Initial Investment: 60+

• Unit Count: $178,000 - $1,009,000

A classic California ice cream and burger joint, Fosters Freeze has been serving soft-serve treats for over 75 years. The franchise combines nostalgic branding with a proven business model.

• Initial Investment: $150,000 - $500,000

• Unit Count: 1,300+

A global frozen yogurt brand, Yogen Früz focuses on health-conscious options with probiotic-rich frozen yogurt and fresh fruit smoothies. Franchisees benefit from an internationally recognized name and growing demand for healthier treats.

• Initial Investment: $191,000 - $535,000

• Unit Count: 25+

CREAM takes the ice cream sandwich to the next level by pairing premium ice cream with fresh-baked cookies. The franchise’s playful branding and customizable menu set it apart in the frozen treat space.

Whether you're drawn to premium handmade ice cream, Italian ice or self-serve frozen yogurt, there's a franchise model to fit your investment goals. Now is the time to explore these top 25 ice cream and frozen dessert brands and find the right opportunity to scoop up success.

Growing and selling franchises is difficult. No great franchise did it alone. Want to learn more about how 1851 helps franchisors grow their franchises with confidence? Visit www.1851growthclub.com and see what we can do for you.