2015
6
$300,000
$20,000
$533,500
No
Cauldron Ice Cream is revolutionizing the dessert landscape with its innovative approach to ice cream. Founded in 2015 in Santa Ana, California, by Terence Lioe and Desiree Le, the brand has quickly gained national attention for its unique offerings. By combining liquid nitrogen freezing techniques with the traditional Hong Kong-style egg waffle, Cauldron delivers a visually stunning and deliciously creamy ice cream experience. The brand's signature "puffle cone" and ice cream roses have become viral sensations, setting Cauldron apart in the competitive dessert market. With a commitment to quality and innovation, Cauldron Ice Cream has established a strong presence in California and Texas, and is poised for further expansion through franchising.
Innovative Product Offering: Cauldron's use of liquid nitrogen and egg waffles creates a unique dessert experience that attracts a wide customer base.
Established Brand Recognition: Featured on platforms like the Food Network and in publications such as Cosmopolitan and People Magazine, Cauldron has built a strong brand presence.
Proven Business Model: Since starting franchising in 2017, Cauldron has expanded to multiple locations across California and Texas, demonstrating the scalability of its business model.
Supportive Franchise System: Franchisees receive comprehensive training and ongoing support, ensuring a smooth operational experience.
Growing Market Demand: The increasing popularity of unique and high-quality dessert options positions Cauldron for continued growth in the U.S. market.
Established: May 2015
Founders: Terence Lioe and Desiree Le
Franchising Since: 2017
Corporate Office: 1421 West MacArthur Blvd., Santa Ana, CA 92704
Franchise Units: 6 locations in California and Texas as of 2024
Industry Category: Dessert, Ice Cream, Fast Casual
Ownership: Privately held
Market Presence: Strong presence in California and Texas, with plans for national expansion
Franchise Development Partner: Fransmart, a leading franchise development company
Cauldron Ice Cream offers a comprehensive, multi-layered support system designed to help franchisees succeed at every stage—from pre-launch to ongoing operations. Their goal is to ensure consistency, quality, and profitability across all franchise locations. Here’s what is included:
Site Selection Assistance: Cauldron works with franchisees to identify high-traffic locations that align with the brand’s target market.
Lease Negotiation Guidance: Experienced franchise consultants help negotiate favorable lease terms.
Store Design & Layout: Professional design assistance ensures each outlet has the signature Cauldron aesthetic, optimized for customer flow and operational efficiency.
Permitting & Licensing Help: Guidance to navigate local regulations, health codes, and business permits.
Operations Training: Hands-on instruction in daily operations, inventory management, equipment usage, and store maintenance.
Product Preparation Training: Mastery of Cauldron’s signature liquid nitrogen ice cream techniques, Hong Kong-style egg waffles, and specialty creations like the “puffle cone” and ice cream roses.
Customer Service Training: Best practices for delivering a high-quality, memorable customer experience.
Safety & Compliance: Ensuring adherence to food safety, health regulations, and operational standards.
Launch Marketing Campaigns: Assistance with grand opening marketing strategies, including local events, PR, and social media promotions.
Ongoing Marketing Support: Access to brand-approved templates, advertising materials, and social media guidance to maintain visibility and attract repeat customers.
Promotional Strategies: Recommendations for seasonal campaigns, loyalty programs, and in-store promotions.
Ongoing Guidance: Continuous support via phone, email, and in-person visits from franchise consultants.
Troubleshooting: Assistance with any operational challenges, from equipment issues to staffing questions.
Performance Reviews: Regular evaluations to optimize store operations, sales, and customer satisfaction.
Advanced Skills Workshops: Periodic training on new products, trends, and innovations in frozen desserts.
Staff Training Programs: Help in training store employees to maintain quality and efficiency.
Point-of-Sale & Inventory Systems: Training and support for Cauldron’s proprietary POS systems to streamline orders and track sales.
Reporting Tools: Access to data analytics for inventory, sales, and marketing performance to make informed business decisions.
Bottom Line: Cauldron Ice Cream’s training and support ecosystem is designed to minimize risks, accelerate success, and maintain brand consistency. Whether you’re a first-time entrepreneur or an experienced investor, their structured programs ensure you have the tools, knowledge, and guidance to run a profitable, high-quality ice cream franchise.
Cauldron Ice Cream seeks franchisees who are passionate, capable, and committed to building a thriving dessert business. The ideal investor combines entrepreneurial drive with a love for innovation and customer service. Below is a detailed breakdown:
Franchisees should have a genuine enthusiasm for unique, high-quality desserts.
Interest in culinary innovation is a plus, as Cauldron is known for its liquid nitrogen ice cream, Hong Kong-style egg waffles, and Instagram-worthy creations like ice cream roses and puffle cones.
A willingness to engage with the brand’s creative processes and experiment with product offerings is highly valued.
Previous experience in business operations, retail, or foodservice is preferred but not mandatory.
Strong management skills to oversee store operations, staff, inventory, and finances are essential.
Ability to implement operational best practices and maintain consistent quality across the store.
A dedication to delivering exceptional customer service.
Strong interpersonal skills to build relationships with customers, employees, and the local community.
Ability to create a welcoming, memorable in-store experience that encourages repeat business.
Adequate capital to meet the total investment requirements, including franchise fees, infrastructure costs, marketing budget, and working capital.
Sound financial planning skills to ensure smooth operations and manage cash flow effectively.
Understanding of potential revenue streams and a commitment to achieving profitability within realistic timelines.
Self-motivated and proactive in problem-solving and business growth.
Eagerness to implement marketing campaigns, promotions, and local engagement strategies.
Willingness to adhere to brand standards while creatively contributing to local store success.
Interest in building strong ties with the local community and participating in events or collaborations.
Ability to represent the Cauldron brand as a community-friendly, trendsetting dessert destination.
The ideal Cauldron Ice Cream franchisee is a passionate entrepreneur with a love for innovative desserts, a commitment to excellent customer service, strong management skills, and the financial resources to invest in and grow the business. This combination ensures the franchisee can maintain the brand’s high standards while building a successful, profitable location.
| Financial Component | Details / Range |
|---|---|
| Total Investment Required | $269,100 – $533,500 |
| Franchise Fee | $20,000 – $100,000+ |
| Minimum Liquid Capital | $300,000 |
| Net Worth Requirement | $750,000 |
| Infrastructure / Build-Out Costs | Included in total investment range |
| Marketing Budget | Allocated within total investment; varies by location |
| Working Capital | Included in total investment |
| Royalty Fees | Percentage of gross sales; varies (typically ~6%) |
| Expected ROI | Varies by location and management; high potential due to brand popularity |
| Break-Even Time | 12 – 24 months |
| Revenue Streams | Sales of nitrogen-frozen ice cream, egg waffles, beverages, catering & events |
