In 1984 Rita’s opened its first store with the simple intention to offer the best tasting, high quality Italian Ice around. Today, we own the category we virtually created!

Offering a unique, affordable, high-quality product line and a family fun destination, Rita’s has become a cultural phenomenon, thanks to our remarkably loyal customers. We’ve also proven to be a very successful business for our franchisees!

Our unique menu features fat-free and cholesterol-free Italian Ices (including a sugar-free selection), cream ices, rich and creamy frozen custards, and signature creations such as our Misto shake, Blendini™ and deliciously layered Gelati.

Made fresh daily, all Rita’s products are created on premises with high quality ingredients. Stringent quality control standards ensure consistency at every serving window in the franchise. No wonder we attract a cult-like following wherever we go!

Franchise Fee
$35,000 (Single Store)
The franchise fee is your entry into our system. The constantly improving system and process of support is second to none. The cornerstone of our success is built around our training program at the Cool Support Training Center. During the training period, you will learn recipes, manufacturing of the product, store management and storefront operations. We have over 20 years of experience and a team of talented, dedicated and passionate individuals focused on your success.

Lease Deposit
$1,200 - $9,000
The monthly rental for leased premises varies depending upon the location of the store and current local real estate rental market conditions. This estimated lease deposit equals one month’s rent and a security deposit equal to one month’s rent. Rental may range between $900 and $4,000 monthly for 800 to 1,500 square feet. In addition, some lessors may require additional security deposits or rental payments upon execution of the lease, such as real estate taxes, percentage rent, utilities, maintenance and insurance. Such additional charges will cause the franchisee to incur higher costs.

Leasehold Improvements
$80,000 - $198,000
Leasehold improvements include, but are not limited to, construction build-out costs, store construction and fixtures. The initial investment for leasehold improvements will vary depending upon the size of the store and it geographic location. Construction costs in some areas of the country may exceed these estimates. These amounts reflect the historical cost to franchisees.

Equipment
$57,000 - $78,000
Equipment estimate includes (2) batch machines, (2) soft-serve custard machines, (2) two door upright refrigerator/freezer, (3) dipping boxes, Misto equipment, safe, cash registers and other miscellaneous equipment and supplies.

Computer
$1,000 - $2,500
Estimate includes the cost of a basic personal computer capable of Internet access

Permits & Licenses
$100 - $2,500
The cost of permits and licenses will depend upon the county or other geographic location in which the store is located. In most cases, the highest amounts will be spent for Use and Occupancy Permits and Building Permits.

Signs & Awnings
$5,000 - $18000
Signs include artwork on exterior walls and interior graphics. The cost of signs and awnings depends on the size and location of the store, the particular requirements of the landlord, local and state ordinances and zoning requirements. This estimate reflects a package price if you purchase signs and awnings.

Prepaid Insurance Premium
$1,500
The cost of insurance coverage required by the Franchise Agreement will vary from state to state. Typically, you will be required to pay your insurance carrier or agent a full annual premium.

Initial Inventory
$4,800 - $8,300
The initial inventory consists of sufficient inventory for two to three weeks of operations. This estimate does not include royalty and advertising fees. The initial inventory consists of, but is not limited to, mixes, fruits, sugars, uniforms, paper goods and miscellaneous supplies.

Grand Opening Advertising
$2,500 - $3,500
Grand Opening advertising and promotional activity reflects, but is not limited to, the production and distribution of advertising to potential consumers. We also assist in the placement of grand opening advertising in your local media market, production and placement of media signage and the provision of promotional items and/or other Grand Opening celebration items as deemed relevant by the Marketing Department.

Local Advertising
$400
This cost is to satisfy the $100 required weekly local advertising expenditure for one month.

Training
$250 - $2,000
The estimate includes living and travel expenses of approximately $125 to $1,000 per person for two people attending our training program. These costs consist of transportation, lodging and meals during the six-day training program at our Cool Support Training Center.

Utility Costs & Deposits
$700 - $1,200
This estimate includes deposits necessary for water, gas, sewer, electric, telephone and other utility services required for your store.

Architect & Attorney Fees
$2,500 - $20,000
You may be required to hire an architect and/or have an attorney represent you at Local Township zoning hearings for buildings approvals or permits depending upon the individual locality of your store.

Additional Funds
$9,500 - $17,400
Franchisor estimates that prior to opening the store and for a period of three (3) months after the opening, you will need approximately $9,500 to $17,400 in working capital for such items as rent, payroll, supplies and utility costs.

TOTAL INVESTMENT
$197,950 - $396,800
The total investment is an estimate. The numbers may be higher or lower depending upon the geographic location and market conditions of your store.

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As a Rita's Franchisee, all of the staff at Rita's Water Ice Franchise Company, LLC is a part of your life for the entire term of your franchise agreement. You receive the benefit of the personal attention of a professional management team with years of retail, operations, franchising and business experience. Together, we form a substantial team that is always working together to help grow your business.