Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard Anticipates Record-Breaking 2021 Season Following 75 New Franchise Signings Amid the Pandemic

Following an impressive 2020 featuring franchise sales growth numbers that haven’t been reached since 2014, the frozen treat franchise is planning on having another banner year. In addition to signing 75 new franchise agreements in 2020, Rita’s grew same store sales year-over-year, expanded into new markets and remained innovative in order to keep its teams and guests safe in a time of uncertainty. The brand kicked-off the year with an impressive first quarter with openings across Florida, Pennsylvania and Alabama, all of which make up its strategic plan to bring the beloved concept to well over 600 markets across the country.

While 2020 presented a year filled with challenges, Rita’s leadership team and franchisees found opportunities with new ways to grow, adapt and expand their offerings in local communities. Many implemented third-party delivery, curbside pick-up, and some even built drive-thrus to keep communities safe and maintain social distancing. These innovations are still an active part of Rita’s strategy today and have fueled growth that will surely impact overall performance as the brand enters the busy spring and summer seasons.

One Rita’s franchisee went above and beyond to propose the creation of a DIY Treat Take Home Kit. This kit allows families to take home Custard, Italian Ice and toppings to mix & match and “do it themselves” from the comfort of home. The piloted kit was such a success in 2020 that Rita’s has rolled out the DIY Treat Take Home Kit nationwide this year.

“Rita’s locations across the country served as a sweet escape throughout 2020 and will continue to be there for our guests in every capacity in 2021. Prospective franchisees saw firsthand that Rita’s brand loyalty, adaptive systems and innovative thinking helped the brand achieve positive growth amid a difficult year,” said Linda Chadwick, CEO of Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard.