1988
260
$112,204
$15,000
$398,650
No
Step into a sweet, innovative world of franchising with Dippin' Dots, America's original and beloved beaded ice cream brand. Recognized globally as the "Ice Cream of the Future," Dippin' Dots offers a unique, scientifically-backed product that creates immediate brand recognition, excitement, and a nostalgic following across all age groups. Since its invention, Dippin' Dots has moved beyond being a simple frozen dessert—it is an experience, a memory-maker, and a staple at high-traffic venues nationwide.
This is more than a traditional ice cream shop; the Dippin' Dots franchise model is built for mobility and market saturation, allowing franchisees to capitalize on multiple revenue streams including retail stores, kiosks, carts, special events, and wholesale distribution. Its simple, low-waste inventory model, coupled with robust brand awareness, positions franchisees for success in the $30+ billion US ice cream and frozen desserts market. Join a system backed by the strength of J&J Snack Foods Corp. (NASDAQ: JJSF) and bring the fun, colorful, flash-frozen beads to your community. If you’re looking for a proven concept with a loyal fan base and operational simplicity, Dippin' Dots offers a compelling, distinct, and fun-filled franchise pathway in the competitive US food and beverage industry.
Unique, Patented Product: Dippin' Dots' cryogenic freezing process creates a distinct, recognizable product that virtually eliminates direct competition in the "beaded" ice cream category. This differentiation drives high customer curiosity and loyalty.
Multiple Revenue Streams (Territory Model): The franchise is designed for flexibility, often encompassing a Territory Development model. This allows franchisees to generate income simultaneously through:
Stationary Retail Locations (stores or kiosks in high-traffic centers).
Event Venues (fairs, festivals, sporting events, concerts).
Product Placement (sales to local convenience stores, schools, family fun centers, etc.).
Powerful Brand Recognition: With over 30 years of history and appearances on major media outlets, the Dippin' Dots brand is a household name, requiring minimal local education or awareness campaigns. Market research has historically shown superior performance against top competitors among key demographics (kids and young adults).
Operational Simplicity and Low Waste: The product is delivered pre-made and simply needs to be stored in specialized freezers and served. This results in minimal on-site food preparation, reduced labor costs, simple inventory control, and near-zero product waste, distinguishing it from traditional scoop-shops.
Co-Branding Potential: Opportunities exist to co-brand with Doc Popcorn, offering a complementary sweet and savory snack portfolio in a single location to maximize year-round sales and appeal.
Corporate Backing: Now a part of J&J Snack Foods Corp., franchisees benefit from the financial stability, deep industry connections, and national distribution capabilities of a frozen beverage and snack industry leader.
Veteran Discount: Dippin' Dots supports veteran entrepreneurship by offering a 15% discount off the initial franchise fee.
Established Year: 1988
Founder: Curt Jones (Microbiologist who used cryogenic technology to invent the beaded ice cream concept).
Franchising Since: 1999
Industry Category: Food & Beverage / Frozen Desserts / Snack Concessions
Company History & Brand Journey:
1988: Curt Jones invents the flash-frozen beaded ice cream.
1989-1991: Product gains traction in high-traffic venues like amusement parks (Opryland U.S.A. was the first) and fairs, establishing a dealer network.
1995: Expands internationally to Japan.
1999: Begins franchising in the USA.
2012: Company is acquired by private equity group Fischer Enterprises, prompting expansion of the franchising division.
2014: Acquires gourmet popcorn franchisor Doc Popcorn, leading to successful co-branded location strategies.
2022: Dippin' Dots is acquired by J&J Snack Foods Corp. (NASDAQ: JJSF) for $222 million, solidifying its place within a major national food service and retail conglomerate.
Market Presence in USA: Dippin' Dots maintains over 200+ franchised locations and has product presence in thousands of high-profile entertainment venues, convenience stores, and retail outlets across all 50 states.
Headquarters: Paducah, Kentucky.
Estimated Franchise Units (US): Approximately 260 franchised units (stores, kiosks, and territories).
Dippin' Dots Franchising, LLC is committed to franchisee success, offering comprehensive support that covers all stages of business development and ongoing operations.
Initial Training (Pre-Launch & Academic):
Location: Mandatory 4-day (minimum 7 hours per day) Basic Management Training program at the corporate headquarters in Paducah, KY, or a designated facility.
Curriculum: Covers all essential business aspects, including operational procedures, hiring/staff management, local marketing/advertising strategies, product knowledge, inventory control, and bookkeeping basics.
Certification: Trainees must satisfactorily pass the basic management training test.
Operational & Pre-Launch Support:
Site Selection: The development team assists in determining optimal locations, leveraging corporate relationships with major shopping center and entertainment properties.
Store Design & Setup: Guidance on attractive store, kiosk, cart, and mobile concession designs, including sourcing of essential, specialized, ultra-low-temperature freezing equipment.
Supply Chain: Access to a simple and efficient corporate supply chain for all proprietary Dippin' Dots products, ensuring quality and consistency.
Marketing & Advertising Support:
National Brand Power: Franchisees benefit from the existing, powerful national brand awareness and large social media following.
Local Marketing: Provision of initial grand opening advertising materials, printing, and signage guidance. Ongoing marketing support is provided, including digital assets and promotional strategies to capitalize on events and catering.
Advertising Fund: Franchisees contribute to a national advertising fund, supporting broader brand initiatives.
Ongoing Support:
Field Support: Regional Field Support is provided by the corporate team to assist with operational challenges, growth strategies, and maintaining brand standards.
Manuals & Updates: Access to the confidential operational manual, which is continually updated with best practices and new products.
Product Innovation: The company consistently develops new flavors, product offerings (ice cream cakes, iced drinks, shakes, etc.), and new ways to enjoy the product to keep the brand fresh and appealing.
Dippin' Dots seeks enthusiastic, entrepreneurial individuals or teams ready to be an ambassador for fun in their local market.
Entrepreneurial Spirit & Passion: Candidates must possess a strong drive, be customer-service oriented, and have a genuine passion for the unique Dippin' Dots product and brand mission of "Creating Smiles."
Business Background: Previous restaurant, retail, or management experience is beneficial but not strictly required, as the franchisor provides comprehensive training. A key requirement is the ability to follow and implement the established "system" and business plan.
Management Style: Must be willing to be "hands-on" with managing and operating the day-to-day business, especially initially. The commitment to placing a trained, on-site manager to oversee operations is essential.
Investment Capability (USA):
Minimum Liquid Capital: $80,000 to $100,000+
Minimum Net Worth: $250,000 to $300,000+
Financial Commitment: Must be prepared to reinvest in the business for continued growth and market penetration.
Location Preference: Ideal candidates are interested in a Territory Development model, allowing for multiple venues within a defined area. Key locations include high-traffic indoor/outdoor venues such as:
Shopping Malls/Lifestyle Centers
Amusement and Theme Parks
Sports and Entertainment Venues
Fairs and Festivals
Tourist Locations
The total investment varies significantly based on the type of franchise (Distribution, Store Only, or Territory) and the format (kiosk vs. in-line store). The figures below represent typical ranges found in the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD).
