What Are Alternative Franchise Chains to Baskin-Robbins Franchise
Considering alternatives to a well-known ice cream franchise like Baskin-Robbins? Discovering other sweet opportunities in the frozen dessert market can lead to a more fulfilling and potentially profitable venture. Explore your options and find the perfect fit for your entrepreneurial dreams, perhaps with the help of a detailed Baskin-Robbins Franchise Business Plan Template.
| # | Alternative Franchise Chain Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ben & Jerry's | Ben & Jerry's seeks franchisees passionate about their three-part mission: fantastic ice cream, profitable business, and positive social impact, setting them apart in the ice cream franchise market. With a franchise fee of $37,000 and total initial investments ranging from $203,600 to $576,300, it offers a premium experience for dessert lovers committed to community and corporate responsibility. |
| 2 | Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard | Rita's offers a potentially profitable frozen dessert franchise with top traditional stores reporting average net sales of $438,705 in 2024, fueled by high-margin, simple core products. Initial investments for a standard store range from $196,985 to $460,575, with more accessible options like mobile carts starting around $110,000. |
| 3 | Handel's Homemade Ice Cream | Handel's Homemade Ice Cream is celebrated for its fresh, daily made-on-site ice cream, earning critical acclaim and a dedicated following, with average unit volumes of $115 million reported in 2024. The estimated total investment ranges from $299,500 to $898,000, including a $40,000 franchise fee, positioning it as a premium, fast-growing opportunity with strong unit economics. |
Key Takeaways
- Several popular ice cream franchises like Cold Stone Creamery, Dairy Queen, and Ben & Jerry's are strong alternatives to Baskin-Robbins, with the US ice cream store market valued at over $6 billion.
- Beyond traditional ice cream, dessert franchise options also include frozen custard, Italian ice, and gourmet cookies, with the sweet treat franchise segment projected for 35% growth in 2025.
- Baskin-Robbins' initial investment ranges from $105,800 to $683,140, but alternative models like Rita's Italian Ice mobile carts can start as low as $110,000, offering lower-cost entry points.
- While Baskin-Robbins requires $100,000 in liquid assets, Dairy Queen's Grill & Chill model demands significantly more, requiring $400,000 in liquid capital and a $750,000 net worth.
- Cold Stone Creamery offers a unique custom-mixing experience and reported strong average gross sales of approximately $565,000 for its top stores in 2024, while Ben & Jerry's leverages brand loyalty and social mission for premium pricing and sales exceeding $650,000 for top shops.
What Alternative Baskin-Robbins Franchise Unit Options Exist?
When considering a venture in the frozen dessert market, exploring alternatives to a Baskin-Robbins franchise is a smart move. Several strong contenders offer unique advantages and appeal to different market segments. Understanding these options is key to making an informed investment decision.
What are other popular ice cream franchises?
Excellent alternatives to owning a Baskin Robbins franchise include major brands like Cold Stone Creamery, Dairy Queen, and Ben & Jerry's. Additionally, emerging chains such as Handel's Homemade Ice Cream are making significant waves in the ice cream franchise opportunities space. These brands are all strong contenders for those interested in investing in a well-established or rapidly growing ice cream business.
The US ice cream store market is a substantial industry, valued at over $6 billion as of late 2024. While Baskin-Robbins operates approximately 2,450 US locations, competitors like Dairy Queen boast over 4,300 US locations, and Cold Stone Creamery has nearly 900 units. Franchise research for ice cream businesses indicates that while Baskin-Robbins enjoys a high 98% brand recognition rate, competitors like Dairy Queen also command over 95% brand awareness, making them formidable Baskin Robbins franchise alternatives.
Tips for Evaluating Ice Cream Franchises
- Market Saturation: Research the density of existing ice cream shops in your target area, both franchised and independent.
- Brand Differentiation: Consider how a franchise stands out from competitors in terms of product offerings, customer experience, and marketing.
- Franchisor Support: Evaluate the training, operational assistance, and marketing resources provided by the franchisor.
What are the best dessert franchise options?
The best dessert franchise options extend beyond traditional scooped ice cream. Consider categories such as frozen custard, Italian ice, frozen yogurt, and gourmet cookies. These diverse segments offer a wide array of franchise opportunities within the broader frozen dessert market for prospective investors looking for dessert franchise options.
The sweet treat franchise segment is projected for robust growth, with an estimated 35% increase anticipated in 2025. Brands like Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard, with over 550 units, and Menchie's Frozen Yogurt, with over 300 units, demonstrate strong market presence and expansion. A comparison of Baskin Robbins franchise versus other brands often reveals that specialized dessert concepts can effectively capture unique market niches. For instance, the gourmet cookie market, a fast-growing food franchise business, saw sales increase by over 15% in 2024.
For those weighing their options, understanding the financial commitments is crucial. For a Baskin-Robbins franchise, the initial investment can range from approximately $293,840 to $642,360. Royalty fees are typically 5.9% of gross sales, with a 5.0% marketing fee. While Baskin-Robbins offers strong brand recognition, exploring alternatives to owning a Baskin Robbins franchise can lead to identifying opportunities with potentially different investment structures or market positioning. For a deeper dive into the specifics, you can explore What are the Pros and Cons of Owning a Baskin-Robbins Franchise?
What Are The Investment Level Alternatives?
What are ice cream franchise costs compared to Baskin Robbins?
When exploring ice cream franchise opportunities, understanding the investment landscape is crucial. The total initial investment for a Baskin-Robbins Franchise Unit, as of early 2025, can range from approximately $105,800 to $683,140. This range positions it as a mid-tier investment within the dessert franchise options.
For comparison, other popular ice cream franchises present different investment tiers. A Cold Stone Creamery franchise typically requires a higher investment, ranging from $319,425 to $580,617. Similarly, a Ben & Jerry's scoop shop can have an initial investment between $203,600 and $576,300. These figures show that while some opportunities are comparable, others demand a significantly larger capital outlay for those looking into food franchise businesses.
However, not all dessert franchise options require such substantial upfront capital. Smaller or non-traditional models offer more accessible entry points. For example, a mobile cart from Rita's Italian Ice can have a startup cost as low as $110,000, making it a considerably lower-cost alternative to owning a Baskin Robbins franchise.
How much capital is needed for a sweet treat franchise?
For those considering investing in an ice cream shop franchise, the required liquid capital often falls between $100,000 and $250,000. Baskin-Robbins itself requires a minimum of $100,000 in liquid assets and a net worth of $200,000.
The capital requirements can be substantially higher for other well-established brands in the frozen dessert franchise sector. As of 2025, a standard Dairy Queen DQ Grill & Chill franchise necessitates franchisees to possess $400,000 in liquid capital and a net worth of $750,000. This highlights a significant difference in the financial commitment needed for various frozen dessert franchise opportunities.
For entrepreneurs looking to start an ice cream business similar to Baskin Robbins on a smaller scale, alternative franchise models can significantly reduce initial capital needs. Particularly, kiosk or co-branding concepts within the ice cream sector can lower these upfront costs by an estimated 20-30%, offering a more budget-friendly pathway into the sweet treat franchise market.
Tips for Evaluating Investment Levels
- Understand the total investment: Always look beyond the initial franchise fee to include all startup costs like build-out, equipment, inventory, and working capital.
- Compare liquid capital requirements: Ensure you meet the minimum liquid capital and net worth requirements for your chosen franchise.
- Consider alternative models: For lower investment entry, explore kiosk, mobile, or co-branding options within your desired sector.
Is Baskin-Robbins a Good Franchise to Invest In?
When considering whether a Baskin-Robbins franchise is a good investment, it's crucial to look at the financial commitments and potential returns. The initial franchise fee stands at $25,000, which is fairly standard for a well-established brand in the food franchise business. Beyond the initial investment, franchisees are expected to pay an ongoing royalty fee of 5.9% of their gross sales. This fee is typical for the industry and covers brand licensing, ongoing operational support, and access to the company's proprietary products and marketing strategies.
In addition to royalties, there's an advertising fee set at 5.0% of gross sales. This contributes to national and regional marketing efforts aimed at driving customer traffic and maintaining brand visibility. For a comprehensive breakdown of these costs, you can explore How Much Does a Baskin-Robbins Franchise Cost?
What are Baskin-Robbins' franchise fees and royalties?
The initial franchise fee for a Baskin-Robbins unit is $25,000. Ongoing, franchisees pay a royalty fee of 5.9% of gross sales and an advertising fee of 5.0% of gross sales. These fees are standard for the food franchise business and support the brand's infrastructure and marketing initiatives.
What is the profit potential of a Baskin-Robbins?
In 2024, the average gross sales for a Baskin-Robbins Franchise Unit were reported to be approximately $529,966. However, profitability can vary significantly based on factors like location, management effectiveness, and local market dynamics. Typically, ice cream shop franchises see profit margins in the range of 15% to 25% after covering costs such as goods sold, labor, rent, and franchise fees. For instance, the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) indicates that top-quartile stores in 2024 achieved sales exceeding $700,000 annually. This highlights the potential for higher earnings in well-performing locations.
Key Considerations for Potential Franchisees
- Evaluate Location: The success of any ice cream franchise, including Baskin-Robbins, is heavily influenced by its location. High-traffic areas with good visibility are crucial.
- Understand the Market: Research the local competition and consumer demand for frozen desserts. Consider how your Baskin-Robbins franchise will fit into the existing market.
- Analyze Financials Thoroughly: Review the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) carefully. Pay close attention to the financial performance representations and understand all associated fees.
- Compare Alternatives: Explore other ice cream franchise opportunities or dessert franchise options to ensure you are making the most informed decision for your investment goals.
For those exploring alternatives to the Baskin-Robbins franchise, there are numerous other ice cream franchise opportunities and dessert franchise options available in the frozen dessert market. These alternatives can offer different investment levels, operational models, and brand appeal, making it important to research and compare various sweet treat franchise options.
Alternative Franchise Chain: Cold Stone Creamery
What is the Cold Stone Creamery investment?
For those exploring alternatives to a Baskin-Robbins franchise, Cold Stone Creamery presents a distinct investment profile. The estimated initial investment to open a Cold Stone Creamery franchise in 2025 falls within the range of $319,425 to $580,617. This figure positions it as a more significant investment compared to some other ice cream franchise opportunities.
The breakdown includes a franchise fee of $27,000. Prospective franchisees will need a minimum of $100,000 in liquid capital and a net worth of at least $250,000. This higher cost is largely attributable to the specialized build-out and equipment required for their unique 'made-to-order' concept, which famously includes the signature frozen granite stone.
What makes Cold Stone a strong alternative?
Cold Stone Creamery differentiates itself through its highly interactive customer experience. The core of its appeal lies in the custom mixing of ice cream and toppings directly on a chilled granite stone, creating a theatrical and personalized sweet treat franchise model that resonates with consumers.
The brand demonstrates strong revenue potential, with the top 50% of its stores reporting average gross sales of approximately $565,000 in 2024. This makes it a compelling choice among the most profitable dessert franchises for operators aiming for significant returns.
As a leading ice cream franchise alternative, Cold Stone Creamery, under its parent company Kahala Brands, offers comprehensive franchisee support. This includes in-depth training programs, ongoing marketing assistance, and crucial operational guidance, ensuring franchisees are well-equipped for success in the competitive food franchise business.
Key Considerations for Cold Stone Creamery
- Unique Selling Proposition: The 'mix-in' concept is a significant draw for customers seeking a personalized experience.
- Investment Level: Be prepared for a higher initial investment compared to some other ice cream franchise opportunities.
- Operational Model: The made-to-order process requires efficient workflow and staff training to maintain speed and quality.
- Brand Recognition: Cold Stone Creamery is a well-established brand in the sweet treat franchise market.
When comparing ice cream franchise costs, understanding these differences is crucial. For instance, while a Baskin-Robbins franchise might have a lower entry point, the unique operational demands and brand experience of Cold Stone Creamery justify its investment level for many entrepreneurs seeking a differentiated frozen dessert franchise.
| Cold Stone Creamery Investment Range (2025) | $319,425 - $580,617 |
| Franchise Fee | $27,000 |
| Liquid Capital Required | $100,000 |
| Net Worth Required | $250,000 |
| Average Gross Sales (Top 50% of stores, 2024) | ~$565,000 |
Alternative Franchise Chain: Dairy Queen
When exploring alternatives to a Baskin-Robbins franchise, Dairy Queen presents a compelling option, particularly with its 'DQ Grill & Chill' concept.
How does Dairy Queen's model differ?
Dairy Queen's strategy extends beyond just frozen desserts. Its DQ Grill & Chill locations offer a comprehensive fast-food menu, including burgers, chicken strips, and various sides, alongside their signature soft-serve ice cream and Blizzard treats. This diversified approach positions Dairy Queen as a direct competitor in the broader fast-food market, not solely the frozen dessert franchise sector. Consequently, this can lead to higher average ticket prices and broader customer appeal throughout the entire day, not just during dessert hours.
The brand's longevity and operational model have demonstrated remarkable resilience. With over 75 years of history, Dairy Queen has established a robust presence, boasting over 4,300 locations in the U.S. alone as of 2025. This extensive network signifies a stable and well-established food franchise business.
What is the cost of a Dairy Queen franchise?
Investing in a Dairy Queen Grill & Chill franchise requires a substantial capital commitment. As of early 2025, the estimated total investment ranges from $1,461,650 to $2,525,800. The initial franchise fee is $45,000, and the financial prerequisites are significant, demanding a minimum of $400,000 in liquid capital and a net worth of at least $750,000.
For those seeking a more focused dessert offering, Dairy Queen also provides a lower-cost 'DQ Treat' model. This option concentrates solely on desserts, with initial investments starting around $420,000, making it a more direct comparison for those primarily interested in dessert franchise opportunities similar to a Baskin-Robbins franchise unit.
| Investment Range (DQ Grill & Chill) | $1,461,650 - $2,525,800 |
| Franchise Fee | $45,000 |
| Minimum Liquid Capital | $400,000 |
| Minimum Net Worth | $750,000 |
| Investment Range (DQ Treat) | Starting around $420,000 |
Key Considerations for Dairy Queen Franchisees
- Menu Diversification: The DQ Grill & Chill model's broader menu can lead to higher average sales per customer compared to a dessert-only concept.
- Brand Recognition: Dairy Queen is a highly recognized brand with a long history, which can aid in customer acquisition.
- Investment Level: Be prepared for a higher initial investment compared to some other ice cream franchise opportunities, especially for the full-service model.
For a detailed breakdown of the pros and cons of investing in a similar franchise, consider reviewing What are the Pros and Cons of Owning a Baskin-Robbins Franchise?
Alternative Franchise Chain: Ben & Jerry's
What are Ben & Jerry's franchise requirements?
When considering alternatives to the Baskin-Robbins franchise, Ben & Jerry's presents a compelling option for those who value both business success and social impact. The brand actively seeks franchisees who are aligned with its core mission: to create exceptional ice cream, operate a profitable business, and contribute positively to society. This commitment to a three-part mission sets it apart in the competitive landscape of ice cream franchise opportunities.
For potential franchisees looking at this sweet treat franchise, understanding the financial commitments is crucial. As of 2025, the initial franchise fee stands at $37,000. Beyond this fee, prospective franchisees must demonstrate a minimum of $100,000 in liquid capital and a total net worth of at least $350,000. The overall initial investment for a Ben & Jerry's scoop shop can range significantly, from $203,600 to $576,300. This investment bracket is comparable to that of a Baskin-Robbins franchise unit, making it a viable consideration for those exploring franchise opportunities in the frozen dessert market.
Why consider a Ben & Jerry's Scoop Shop?
The appeal of a Ben & Jerry's Scoop Shop lies in its deeply ingrained brand loyalty, fostered by its distinctive, high-quality ice cream and creative flavor names. Furthermore, the brand's long-standing dedication to social and environmental causes resonates strongly with a significant customer segment, creating a loyal following. This focus on premium ingredients and unique flavor profiles allows for premium pricing, which can positively impact unit economics. In 2024, top-performing Ben & Jerry's scoop shops reported average gross sales exceeding $650,000.
As a prominent alternative to the Baskin-Robbins franchise, Ben & Jerry's offers a unique value proposition. It's an ideal choice for dessert lovers who are also passionate about community engagement and corporate responsibility. This makes it an attractive option among various dessert franchise options for entrepreneurs looking to invest in the food franchise business sector.
For those comparing investment opportunities, it's helpful to look at the financial benchmarks. While Baskin-Robbins has an average annual revenue per unit of $529,966, Ben & Jerry's top performers are exceeding $650,000. Remember to also review What are the Pros and Cons of Owning a Baskin-Robbins Franchise? to get a full picture.
| Franchise Fee | Ben & Jerry's: $37,000 | Baskin-Robbins: $25,000 |
| Liquid Capital Required | $100,000+ | $293,840 - $642,360 |
| Total Initial Investment | $203,600 - $576,300 | $293,840 - $642,360 |
| Average Gross Sales (Top Performers) | $650,000+ (2024) | $529,966 (Average Unit) |
Tips for Evaluating Ice Cream Franchise Opportunities
- Understand the Brand's Mission: Align your personal values with the franchise's ethos, especially if social impact is important to you.
- Analyze Financials Carefully: Compare initial investment, royalty fees, and potential revenue streams across different brands.
- Research Customer Loyalty: Brands with strong customer bases and unique selling propositions often have more resilient sales.
- Consider Operational Support: Evaluate the training, marketing, and ongoing support provided by the franchisor.
Alternative Franchise Chain: Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard
Is Rita's a profitable frozen dessert franchise?
Yes, Rita's offers a compelling profit potential within the competitive frozen dessert market. In 2024, the top 25% of their traditional stores reported average net sales reaching $438,705. The brand's focus on simple, high-margin core products like Italian ice and frozen custard contributes to favorable profitability. Typically, the cost of goods sold for these items ranges from 25% to 30% of sales, which is often lower than that for more complex ice cream recipes.
It's worth noting that Rita's seasonal operating model in many northern regions can lead to reduced annual labor and operating costs compared to a year-round operation like a Baskin-Robbins Franchise Unit. However, this also means revenue is concentrated into a shorter operating period.
What is the initial investment for Rita's?
For a standard walk-in Rita's store in 2025, the initial investment falls between $196,985 and $460,575. This makes it a competitive option when considering alternatives to owning a Baskin Robbins franchise. Rita's also provides more accessible entry points through non-traditional units. For example, investing in a mobile cart or trailer can start as low as $110,000, offering flexible and lower-cost small business ideas similar to Baskin Robbins.
The franchise fee for a standard unit is $35,000, with a royalty fee of 65% of gross sales. These figures are generally in line with industry benchmarks for established sweet treat franchise systems.
| Initial Investment (Standard Unit) | $196,985 - $460,575 (2025) |
| Initial Investment (Mobile Unit) | Starting at $110,000 |
| Franchise Fee | $35,000 |
| Royalty Fee | 6.5% of Gross Sales |
| Average Net Sales (Top 25% of Stores) | $438,705 (2024) |
| Cost of Goods Sold (Estimated) | 25% - 30% of Sales |
Tips for Evaluating Frozen Dessert Franchises
- Analyze Revenue Streams: Understand how each franchise generates revenue. Is it primarily through product sales, or are there additional income opportunities?
- Compare Investment Levels: Look at the total initial investment required, including franchise fees, build-out costs, and working capital, to find options that fit your budget. For context, the initial investment for a Baskin Robbins franchise can range from $293,840 to $642,360.
- Evaluate Profitability Metrics: Research average sales figures, gross profit margins, and operating expenses for existing franchisees to gauge potential profitability.
- Consider Operational Models: Assess whether a franchise operates year-round or seasonally, as this can significantly impact labor costs and revenue concentration.
Alternative Franchise Chain: Handel's Homemade Ice Cream
What are the startup costs for Handel's?
For those exploring alternatives to a Baskin-Robbins franchise, understanding the investment required for other popular ice cream franchises is key. As of 2025, opening a Handel's Homemade Ice Cream franchise involves a total estimated investment ranging from $299,500 to $898,000. This investment includes an initial franchise fee of $40,000. Prospective franchisees must also demonstrate financial readiness with at least $200,000 in liquid capital and a minimum net worth of $600,000.
This investment accounts for the specific build-out requirements, particularly for their efficient walk-up or drive-thru models, which are integral to their operational strategy in the competitive frozen dessert franchise market. When comparing this to the estimated initial investment for a Baskin-Robbins franchise, which can range from $293,840 to $642,360, Handel's typically requires a higher entry point, reflecting its premium positioning and operational model.
Why is Handel's a popular franchise choice?
Handel's Homemade Ice Cream stands out as a compelling option in the ice cream franchise opportunities landscape due to its strong emphasis on quality and proven financial performance. The brand has cultivated a loyal customer base, often described as having a 'cult following,' largely attributed to its commitment to making fresh, homemade ice cream on-site daily. This dedication to freshness is a significant differentiator in the sweet treat franchise sector.
Financially, Handel's has shown impressive results. According to its 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, stores that have been operational for a full year reported an average unit volume (AUV) of $1.15 million. This makes it one of the most profitable dessert franchises to consider. For context, the average annual revenue per unit for a Baskin-Robbins franchise, based on recent data, is around $529,966, highlighting Handel's strong performance in this regard.
As one of the fastest-growing ice cream franchise opportunities, Handel's has successfully expanded to over 130 locations. This growth trajectory attracts many multi-unit operators who are seeking to invest in a premium brand with robust unit economics and a strong market presence. For those interested in understanding How Does the Baskin-Robbins Franchise Work?, it's beneficial to compare such models with other leading players in the frozen dessert franchise market.
Tips for Evaluating Ice Cream Franchises
- Assess Unit Economics: Compare Average Unit Volumes (AUVs) and profitability metrics across different brands. Handel's AUV of $1.15 million in 2024 is a strong indicator of potential.
- Understand the Investment: Factor in the total initial investment, franchise fees, and ongoing royalty and marketing fees. Ensure these align with your capital and financial goals.
- Evaluate Brand Differentiation: Look for franchises that offer unique selling propositions, such as on-site production of fresh ingredients, which can drive customer loyalty.
| Franchise | Estimated Initial Investment (2025) | Franchise Fee | Average Unit Volume (2024) |
| Handel's Homemade Ice Cream | $299,500 - $898,000 | $40,000 | $1.15 million |
| Baskin-Robbins (Estimated) | $293,840 - $642,360 | $25,000 | $529,966 |