2013
1
$100,000
$25,000
$350,000
No
Daddy O’Brien’s Irish Ice Cream Pub is a distinctive fusion of traditional Irish pub ambiance and innovative dessert offerings. Founded in 2017 in Sugar Hill, Georgia, this establishment has quickly become a local favorite, known for its handcrafted, alcohol-infused ice creams and a curated selection of Irish and craft beers. The pub's unique concept caters to both adults seeking a novel dessert experience and families looking for a fun, relaxed dining environment.
The franchise model of Daddy O’Brien’s offers entrepreneurs the opportunity to invest in a proven business with a strong brand identity and a growing customer base. With its combination of quality products, exceptional customer service, and a welcoming atmosphere, Daddy O’Brien’s stands out in the competitive dessert and casual dining market.
Unique Product Offering: Daddy O’Brien’s specializes in adult-flavored ice creams, such as Margarita and Blueberry Wine Sorbet, setting it apart from traditional dessert establishments.
Proven Business Model: Since its inception, the original location has garnered a loyal customer base, demonstrating the viability and appeal of the concept.
Comprehensive Support: Franchisees receive extensive training and ongoing support in operations, marketing, and product development.
Growing Market Presence: With plans for expansion, investing in Daddy O’Brien’s offers the potential for growth in untapped markets across the USA.
Established Year: 2013
Founders: Frank and Lori O’Brien
Franchise Units: As of now, Daddy O’Brien’s operates one flagship location in Sugar Hill, Georgia, with plans for national expansion through franchising.
Ownership: Privately owned and operated by Daddy O’s Ice Cream, LLC.
Company History and Brand Journey:
Daddy O’Brien’s Irish Ice Cream Pub was born from the entrepreneurial spirit of high school sweethearts Frank and Lori O’Brien. Prior to their venture into the ice cream business, the O’Briens successfully operated Atlanta Special Events, a corporate event planning company that provided ice cream carts for community and corporate events. It was during these events that Frank began experimenting with creating his own ice cream, leading to the development of unique, alcohol-infused flavors.
The couple's passion for quality and innovation culminated in the opening of their first brick-and-mortar location in Sugar Hill, Georgia, in 2013. The establishment quickly became a local favorite, known for its handcrafted, award-winning ice creams and authentic Irish pub atmosphere. The interior features 100-year-old church pews and authentic Jack Daniels whiskey barrel tables, creating a warm and inviting environment for patrons.
Market Presence in the USA:
While the original location in Sugar Hill serves as the cornerstone of the brand, Daddy O’Brien’s has garnered attention for its unique concept and high-quality offerings. The pub's success has paved the way for expansion, with plans to open additional locations across the United States. In 2022, a new location was set to open in Gainesville, Georgia, further solidifying the brand's growing presence.
Industry Category:
Daddy O’Brien’s operates within the Dessert & Casual Dining industry, specializing in alcohol-infused ice creams and traditional Irish pub fare. The brand has distinguished itself by combining the comfort of a traditional pub with the novelty of gourmet, adult-themed desserts, appealing to a diverse customer base.
Awards and Recognition:
Even before establishing their first store, Daddy O’Brien’s had won multiple awards. In 2014, Frank O’Brien and his team created the Kentucky Salted Caramel flavor, which won the National Ice Cream Association’s Iron Scoop Competition. In 2015, they won a Blue Ribbon for their Strawberries and Cream flavor and a Red Ribbon for Madagascar Vanilla at the National Ice Cream Convention. In the prestigious peer-judged Flavor of the Year competition, they won 3rd place for their Bailey’s Irish Pistachio and 4th place for their T.A.C.O. (Tamarind, Apricot, Coconut Orgy) Ice Cream. In 2016, they won 1st place for their Butter Beer ice cream, inspired by the Harry Potter series’ drink. In 2018, Frank O’Brien was awarded the coveted title of “Grandmaster Ice Cream Maker,” one of only three in the country.
These accolades underscore the brand's commitment to quality and innovation, setting a strong foundation for its expansion into new markets.
Franchise Development:
Recognizing the potential for growth, Daddy O’Brien’s has initiated a franchise program to expand its unique concept nationally. The original Sugar Hill location serves as the prototype and training center for new franchise locations, ensuring consistency and quality across all units.
The franchise model offers entrepreneurs the opportunity to invest in a proven business with a strong brand identity, comprehensive support, and a distinctive product offering.
Daddy O’Brien’s offers a robust support system for its franchisees, including:
Pre-Launch Training: Comprehensive training covering all aspects of business operations, from product preparation to customer service.
Operational Support: Ongoing assistance in daily operations to ensure consistency and quality across all locations.
Marketing and Promotions: Access to marketing materials and strategies to effectively promote the brand and attract customers.
Product Development: Continuous innovation in menu offerings to keep the product line fresh and appealing.
Accounting and Legal Support: Guidance in financial management and compliance with legal requirements.
This comprehensive support ensures that franchisees are well-equipped to operate successfully and maintain the brand's high standards.
The ideal franchisee for Daddy O’Brien’s is an individual who:
Has a Passion for the Food & Beverage Industry: A genuine interest in delivering exceptional dining experiences.
Possesses Strong Business Acumen: Experience in managing operations, finances, and staff.
Is Customer-Focused: Committed to providing outstanding service and building a loyal customer base.
Has Investment Capability: Ability to meet the financial requirements for opening and operating a franchise.
Prefers Urban or Suburban Locations: Areas with high foot traffic and a demographic that appreciates unique dining experiences.
Entrepreneurs with a background in hospitality or retail management will find this opportunity particularly appealing.
| Category | Details / Range |
|---|---|
| Total Investment Required | $250,000 – $350,000 |
| Minimum Investment Required | $100,000 – $150,000 |
| Franchise Fee | $25,000 – $35,000 |
| Royalty Fee | 5% – 6% of gross sales |
| Marketing Fee / Advertising Contribution | 2% – 3% of gross sales |
| Infrastructure / Build-Out Cost | $150,000 – $200,000 (includes equipment, furnishings, signage, and leasehold improvements) |
| Working Capital | $25,000 – $50,000 (initial operating expenses) |
| Expected Revenue / Sales | $400,000 – $600,000 annually (per unit, depending on location and traffic) |
| Break-Even Time | 18 – 24 months |
| Return on Investment (ROI) | 20% – 30% annually (estimated, varies by location) |
| Potential Revenue Streams | Alcohol-infused ice cream, traditional ice cream, beverages, pub fare, merchandise, seasonal specials, catering services |
Notes:
These numbers are estimates based on industry averages and the brand’s current single-unit performance.
Exact figures may vary depending on the franchise location, lease terms, and local market conditions.
Daddy O’Brien’s provides detailed financial disclosure documents (FDD) to prospective franchisees, which outline all fees, costs, and potential revenue streams more precisely.
