2003
20
$250,000
$35,000
$450,000
No
Frost Gelato is more than just a dessert franchise — it’s an artisanal Italian gelato experience crafted with passion, precision, and authenticity. Known for its creamy textures, fresh ingredients, and authentic Italian recipes, Frost Gelato has become one of the most loved gelato brands in the United States. Each scoop is made daily in-store using imported ingredients from Italy, ensuring customers enjoy a truly authentic taste of Italy right in their neighborhood.
Founded with a vision to redefine the frozen dessert market, Frost Gelato has built a reputation for quality, consistency, and creativity. The brand’s inviting atmosphere, European-inspired store design, and diverse flavor lineup make it a favorite among families, foodies, and dessert lovers across the country. As the demand for premium frozen desserts continues to rise, Frost Gelato offers investors a proven, high-demand business model with strong profitability and nationwide growth potential.
Investing in a Frost Gelato franchise means joining a brand that values craftsmanship, innovation, and customer experience. The global gelato industry is booming, fueled by health-conscious consumers looking for fresh, natural alternatives to traditional ice cream. Frost Gelato’s focus on authentic Italian recipes, small-batch production, and premium quality sets it apart from typical frozen yogurt or ice cream shops.
Franchisees benefit from a well-established brand, tested operations, and a passionate leadership team committed to their success. With flexible store formats, high-margin products, and a loyal customer base, Frost Gelato delivers both financial opportunity and lifestyle satisfaction. Whether located in shopping centers, high-traffic streets, or tourist areas, Frost Gelato franchises are designed to thrive.
Top Reasons to Invest:
Authentic Italian brand with strong U.S. presence
Proven profitability and repeat customer base
Ongoing innovation with seasonal and limited-edition flavors
Low labor and inventory waste compared to other F&B models
Growing dessert and experiential dining market
Frost Gelato was founded in 2003 by Stephen Ochoa and Jeff Kaiserman, two friends who fell in love with authentic Italian gelato during their travels in Europe. Inspired by the artistry and passion of Italian gelaterias, they set out to bring that same experience to the United States. The first Frost Gelato store opened in Tucson, Arizona, quickly becoming a local favorite and expanding through franchising.
Today, Frost Gelato operates over 20 franchise units across the United States and internationally, with continued growth in major metropolitan areas. The brand’s commitment to authenticity — using Italian equipment, ingredients, and training — has earned it recognition as one of the most genuine gelato experiences outside Italy.
Operating under Frost Gelato Franchise Systems, LLC, the company belongs to the frozen dessert / specialty food industry, appealing to a wide range of consumers, from casual shoppers to luxury dessert enthusiasts. Its core philosophy remains simple: deliver an authentic Italian gelato experience made fresh daily, with love and attention in every scoop.
Frost Gelato provides a comprehensive support system that ensures franchisees succeed from day one. The franchise team walks you through every phase — from pre-launch to grand opening and ongoing operations.
Pre-Launch Support:
Assistance with site selection and lease negotiation
Guidance on store layout, design, and equipment procurement
Step-by-step pre-opening checklist to ensure readiness
Training Program:
Franchisees and their teams undergo hands-on training at Frost Gelato’s flagship location in Tucson, Arizona. This includes:
Gelato-making techniques and product knowledge
Customer service and retail management
Inventory, operations, and cash management
Marketing and promotional strategies
Ongoing Support:
Dedicated franchise consultant for operational guidance
National and regional marketing campaigns
Regular updates on menu innovations and new flavors
Digital marketing support including social media templates and seasonal promotions
Continued product and service innovation training
With Frost Gelato’s detailed systems, franchisees can focus on delivering outstanding service while the corporate team handles brand evolution and marketing innovation.
The ideal Frost Gelato franchisee is a passionate entrepreneur who values quality, community, and hospitality. While prior experience in food service or retail can be helpful, it’s not required — the Frost Gelato team provides full operational training and ongoing mentorship.
Best-Suited Candidates:
Entrepreneurs seeking a lifestyle-oriented business with strong financial potential
Investors looking for a low-operational overhead franchise model
Hospitality or F&B professionals eager to diversify their portfolio
Individuals passionate about premium desserts, Italian culture, and community engagement
Key Traits:
Customer-first mindset
Strong leadership and management skills
Willingness to follow proven systems and uphold brand standards
Investment capability to meet franchise financial requirements
Frost Gelato franchises perform best in high-footfall areas like shopping districts, entertainment complexes, college towns, and tourist hubs — locations where people gather to enjoy experiences, not just products.
| Financial Category | Estimated Cost / Details |
|---|---|
| Total Investment Range | $250,000 – $450,000 |
| Minimum Liquid Capital Required | $100,000 |
| Franchise Fee | $35,000 (one-time) |
| Royalty Fee | 6% of gross sales |
| National Marketing Fund | 2% of gross sales |
| Average Revenue (Annual) | $500,000 – $900,000 |
| Expected ROI | 20% – 30% annually (location dependent) |
| Break-Even Period | 18 – 30 months |
| Franchise Units (Current) | 20+ and expanding |
| Store Size Requirement | 800 – 1,200 sq. ft. |
| Staff Requirement | 5 – 8 employees per store |
| Equipment & Fixtures | $70,000 – $120,000 |
| Leasehold Improvements | $60,000 – $100,000 |
| Initial Inventory | $5,000 – $10,000 |
| Working Capital (First 3 Months) | $25,000 – $50,000 |
| Marketing & Grand Opening Budget | $10,000 – $20,000 |
| Training & Travel Costs | $3,000 – $5,000 |
