Established
2013
Franchise Units
25
Minimum Investment
₹ 22,00,000
Franchise Fee
₹ 7,50,000
Total Investment Range
₹ 25,00,000
Home Based
No
Description
The Indian dessert market is experiencing a massive transformation as consumers move away from commercial, pre-packaged ice creams toward fresh, experience-driven, gourmet treats. Standing at the forefront of this revolution is Ice Cream Lab, an internationally acclaimed QSR brand that has redefined dessert culture through molecular gastronomy.
Unlike traditional ice cream parlours that rely on pre-frozen tubs packed with artificial preservatives and stabilizers, Ice Cream Lab crafts every single cup fresh to order in less than a minute. Utilizing liquid nitrogen at a freezing temperature of -196°C (-320°F), the liquid ice cream base instantly freezes upon contact with natural ingredients. This ultra-rapid freezing process prevents ice crystals from forming, yielding a smooth, velvety, and dense texture that conventional churning methods simply cannot replicate.
By combining theatrical visual appeal—dense fog rolling over polished stainless-steel counters—with high-quality, natural ingredients, Ice Cream Lab offers an immersive sensory experience that delights children, youth, and families alike. Positioned at the sweet spot between premium gourmet dining and accessible quick-service retail, the brand has established a distinct position in India's fast-growing $3+ billion ice cream and frozen dessert market.
Background
| Parameter | Details |
| Brand Name | Ice Cream Lab |
| Industry Category | Food & Beverage / QSR / Specialty Dessert Parlour |
| Origin & Founding Year | Founded in 2013 (California, USA) |
| Global Head Office | Dubai, United Arab Emirates |
| Founders & Leadership | Founded by the Harab family; led globally by CEO Rashid Harab |
| Active Global Outlets | 25+ operating units across 12+ countries |
| International Footprint | USA, UAE, UK, KSA, Oman, Portugal, Malaysia, Australia, India, and more |
| India Presence | Expanding in major metros, Tier-1, and Tier-2 cities via regional & unit franchise partners |
| Key Milestones | Winner of "Best Emerging Franchise" at the Global Franchise Awards; Guinness World Record holder for most ice cream flavours displayed (1,001 flavours) |
The Journey
Ice Cream Lab originated in California in 2013, inspired by molecular gastronomy techniques popularized by world-class culinary innovators. Recognizing the commercial potential of bringing fine-dining liquid nitrogen freezing to everyday retail consumers, the brand developed state-of-the-art counter-top freezing equipment made with aircraft-grade metal alloys.
Following rapid acceptance in North America and the Middle East, Ice Cream Lab launched its international franchise program. In India, the brand has partnered with experienced regional master franchise groups—such as R A Bakery Pvt. Ltd. in Eastern India—to scale unit footprints across high-footfall shopping centres, entertainment hubs, and high streets.
Support Training
Ice Cream Lab provides a comprehensive support ecosystem designed to guide partners through every phase of business ownership:
1. Pre-Launch & Site Selection Support
Location Analytics: Expert evaluation of foot traffic, catchment demographics, visibility, and competitor density to choose prime retail spaces.
Store Design & Architecture: Customized, turnkey store layouts, 3D interior renders, and technical MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing) designs optimized for liquid nitrogen storage and ventilation safety.
Supply Chain Set-up: Direct access to vetted vendors for liquid nitrogen supply, specialized dairy bases, fruit pastes, and branded packaging.
2. Training Programs (Academic & Practical)
Operational Training: On-site and classroom modules covering liquid nitrogen handling, machine maintenance, POS software operation, and inventory control.
Customer Service & Hospitality: Staff grooming, speed of service protocols, and safety compliance standards.
Recipe & Menu Mastery: Hands-on practice in executing core signatures, seasonal specials, thick shakes, and customizable toppings.
3. Marketing & Grand Opening Assistance
Launch Campaign: Targeted hyper-local digital advertising, social media campaigns, influencer sampling, and PR announcements.
Promotions & Collateral: Eye-catching in-store posters, menu boards, loyalty program integration, and grand opening promotional packages.
4. Ongoing Operational Support
Audit & Quality Control: Periodic store visits and mystery audits to maintain brand consistency.
R&D Innovations: Regular introduction of localized Indian flavours (e.g., Kesar Pista, Mango Craze, Alphonso Blitz) alongside international bestsellers.
Ideal Candidate
Ice Cream Lab is looking for passionate, growth-oriented franchise partners who are eager to deliver exceptional dessert experiences.
Entrepreneurial Drive: Individuals, partners, or existing retail operators with a hands-on approach to business management and customer service.
Financial Capability: Adequate net worth and unencumbered liquid capital to comfortably fund the initial investment, store setup, and early operational runway.
Business Acumen: Prior experience in F&B, hospitality, or retail management is advantageous, though not strictly mandatory if the franchisee is willing to follow standard operating procedures.
Passion for Innovation: Enthusiasm for modern culinary trends, social media marketing, and community engagement.
Preferred Locations:
Premium shopping malls (food courts or standalone kiosks)
High-street retail centers with high foot traffic
Commercial hubs near universities, IT parks, and affluent residential neighborhoods
Airports, amusement parks, and tourist locations
Financial Detail
Below is an overview of the financial commitments and return expectations for an Ice Cream Lab unit franchise in India:
| Financial Parameter | Estimated Cost / Figure (INR) |
| Minimum Space Requirement | 120 – 300 Sq. Ft. (Kiosk or Parlour) |
| Initial Franchise Fee | ₹7,500,00 + GST (Included in total project cost) |
| Equipment & Machinery (Nitrogen stations, mixers, back-of-house freezers) | ₹12,00,000 – ₹15,00,000 |
| Interiors, Counter Fit-out & Signage | ₹2,00,000 – ₹4,00,000 |
| Initial Inventory & Working Capital | ₹1,00,000 – ₹2,00,000 |
| Marketing & Launch Budget | ₹50,000 – ₹1,00,000 |
| Total Estimated Capital Investment | ₹22.0 Lakhs – ₹25.0 Lakhs |
| Royalty / Brand Fee | ~7% – 10% on Gross Sales |
| Expected Payback Period (Break-even) | 1.5 Years – 2.5 Years (18 to 30 months) |
| Anticipated ROI | 17% – 25% annually |