Rita's® Italian Ice & Frozen Custard Plans to Double New Signings in 2026

"We're seeing tremendous interest from entrepreneurs who want a proven franchise backed by a recognizable brand and an operating model designed for long-term growth," said Lawrence Brown, Chief Development Officer of Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard. "Combined with smaller kitchen footprints, low COGS (<18% on average*) no fryer requirements and staffing efficiencies, the model's real estate flexibility allows franchisees to enter and adapt to local markets while benefiting from a straightforward business operation built to scale."

Development activity during the first half of 2026 highlights the brand's continued momentum:

• Mid-Atlantic: Multi-unit developer Disrupt Foods (40+ unit franchisee) announced plans to open three new locations in Brockton, Massachusetts; Clifton, New Jersey; and Newark, New Jersey.

• Midwest: Multi-unit franchisee Jim Myers opened multiple Ohio locations, with two additional shops planned for the Cleveland market this year, bringing his total to nearly 10 units.

• South-Central: Franchisee Kyle Wiborg opened his first location in North Richland Hills, Texas, and has three additional shops under construction along with plans to open 10 total throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.

Drive-thru development continues to be a significant growth driver. According to Rita's 2026 Franchise Disclosure Document, drive-thru shops generated 38 percent higher average gross sales in 2025 than comparable non-drive-thru locations.*

"Coming from a finance background and having experience in the restaurant industry, I recognized the potential of the brand immediately and the growth opportunity it presents in the rising frozen treat category," said Texas franchisee Kyle Wiborg. "Converting former restaurant spaces has allowed us to secure great locations with drive-thrus that position us well in our market to drive sales year-round."