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Gelato Go Franchise Opportunity

USA & CAN

Established

2013

Franchise Units

20

dollar

Minimum Investment

$200,000

dollar

Franchise Fee

$35,000

dollar

Total Investment Range

$350,000

Home Based

No

Description

Indulge in the taste of true Italian craftsmanship with Gelato Go, a premium gelato franchise that brings the authentic flavors of Italy to the heart of America. Founded with a passion for quality, tradition, and innovation, Gelato Go is more than a dessert shop — it’s a lifestyle brand that embodies artisanal excellence and sustainable business growth.


Using time-honored Italian recipes, Gelato Go creates creamy, flavorful gelato made fresh daily from natural ingredients — free from preservatives, artificial coloring, and hydrogenated fats. The franchise stands out for its commitment to authenticity, sourcing key ingredients directly from Italy and blending them in-store using state-of-the-art Italian machinery.

Today, Gelato Go has become one of the most recognized names in the U.S. gelato industry, blending European tradition with American entrepreneurship. Whether located in vibrant downtown districts, high-traffic tourist areas, or suburban retail centers, each Gelato Go store delivers a taste experience that delights locals and visitors alike.

If you’re looking to invest in a brand that offers proven profitability, low operational costs, and a rapidly growing market demand, Gelato Go represents the perfect franchise opportunity in the frozen dessert category.

Why Invest in the Gelato Go Franchise?

Investing in a Gelato Go franchise means becoming part of a brand that celebrates authentic Italian heritage while thriving in America’s booming frozen dessert industry — a market projected to exceed $100 billion by 2028.

Here’s why entrepreneurs choose Gelato Go:

  • Authentic Italian Product: Every batch of gelato follows traditional Italian recipes using imported ingredients and equipment, ensuring a superior taste that sets Gelato Go apart from ice cream competitors.

  • Strong Brand Identity: Known for its European charm, elegant shop design, and inviting customer experience, Gelato Go has built a loyal customer base and a strong reputation for quality.

  • High-Profit Margins: With relatively low overhead and high product demand, franchisees benefit from excellent profit potential. Gelato Go’s efficient operational model allows strong margins and scalability.

  • Year-Round Demand: Unlike seasonal dessert concepts, Gelato Go benefits from consistent year-round sales through a diversified menu that includes gelato, sorbets, coffee, pastries, and smoothies.

  • Sustainable Growth: The franchise focuses on eco-friendly operations and premium sourcing, appealing to modern consumers who value sustainability and transparency.

  • Comprehensive Franchise Support: From store setup to marketing campaigns, Gelato Go’s team ensures franchisees receive world-class guidance to maximize performance.


Background

Established Year: 2013

Founders: Alberto Gagliardi and Antonio Cappuano
Headquarters: Miami Beach, Florida, USA
Industry Category: Food & Beverage – Gelato / Ice Cream Franchise

Company History & Brand Journey:
Gelato Go began its flavorful journey in 2013 when two passionate Italian entrepreneurs, Alberto Gagliardi and Antonio Cappuano, set out to bring the authentic taste of Italian gelato to the American market. Their vision was to recreate the same artisanal experience found in the gelaterias of Italy — where freshness, natural ingredients, and craftsmanship define every scoop.

Starting with a single shop on Ocean Drive in Miami Beach, Gelato Go quickly captured the hearts of locals and tourists alike with its smooth, creamy texture and authentic flavors made from scratch daily. The brand’s dedication to using imported Italian ingredients, such as pistachios from Sicily and hazelnuts from Piedmont, has positioned it as one of the most authentic gelato experiences in the United States.

As word spread, the founders expanded across Florida and then to other key markets such as Los Angeles, Fort Lauderdale, Beverly Hills, and Hollywood, introducing more Americans to the artistry of Italian gelato. The company’s steady expansion reflects its strong operational model and commitment to maintaining quality and authenticity across all locations.

Today, Gelato Go operates 20+ franchise units across the U.S., with more stores in development, each embodying the brand’s motto — “Made fresh daily, the Italian way.”

Ownership & Brand Values:
Gelato Go remains privately owned, managed by its founding team, who continue to oversee product innovation, franchise operations, and brand development. The company emphasizes sustainability, freshness, and Italian excellence, sourcing natural ingredients and minimizing environmental impact through efficient operations.

Market Presence in the USA:
With a growing presence in prime American markets and a brand reputation built on authenticity, Gelato Go has carved out a niche within the premium frozen dessert industry. It caters to a diverse audience — from health-conscious millennials to families and travelers seeking a taste of Italy. The brand’s stores are strategically located in high-traffic retail areas, tourist destinations, and urban centers, ensuring steady footfall and strong sales performance year-round.

Industry Positioning:
Gelato Go competes in the fast-growing frozen dessert and specialty café sector, which has seen a surge in consumer demand for authentic, premium, and healthier dessert options. Unlike typical ice cream chains, Gelato Go’s commitment to all-natural ingredients, low-fat recipes, and European-inspired aesthetics makes it a standout franchise opportunity for investors looking to join a trendsetting brand in the U.S. food and beverage industry.

In short, Gelato Go’s evolution from a small Miami Beach gelateria to a national franchise brand showcases its winning blend of Italian tradition, business innovation, and market adaptability — making it a truly exceptional investment opportunity in America’s dessert landscape.


Support Training

Gelato Go provides a comprehensive franchise support system to help franchisees operate successfully from day one. The company understands that consistency and brand experience are critical to success, which is why it offers a full range of training and operational guidance:


1. Pre-Launch Support:

  • Assistance with site selection and lease negotiation.

  • Architectural and design guidance to ensure alignment with brand aesthetics.

  • Help with equipment sourcing, installation, and vendor setup.

  • Detailed pre-opening training for the owner and management team.

2. Operational Training:

  • Extensive in-person and online training covering daily operations, product preparation, and customer service standards.

  • Training on authentic Italian gelato production using imported machinery and recipes.

  • Inventory management, staff hiring, and workflow optimization techniques.

3. Marketing Support:

  • Access to national and local marketing campaigns designed to drive traffic and awareness.

  • Social media strategy, influencer collaborations, and PR support to enhance visibility.

  • Seasonal promotions, loyalty programs, and limited-edition flavor launches.

4. Ongoing Franchise Support:

  • Regular field visits and performance audits to ensure continued excellence.

  • Continuous menu innovation and R&D to stay ahead of market trends.

  • Ongoing operational and technical support via a dedicated franchise portal.

From opening day onward, Gelato Go ensures that every franchisee operates with the confidence and expertise of a seasoned gelato master.


Ideal Candidate

Gelato Go is looking for passionate entrepreneurs who appreciate quality, hospitality, and community. You don’t need prior food industry experience — just a willingness to learn and a drive to succeed.


Ideal candidates include:

  • Entrepreneurs seeking a lifestyle business with a vibrant brand and strong ROI potential.

  • Investors who want to be part of a fast-growing, premium dessert franchise.

  • Existing restaurant or café owners looking to diversify with a high-margin dessert brand.

  • Individuals who value Italian culture, customer experience, and quality ingredients.

Key Traits of a Successful Franchisee:

  • Strong business acumen and people management skills.

  • Passion for hospitality and creating memorable experiences.

  • Willingness to follow a proven franchise system.

  • Commitment to community engagement and brand growth.

Preferred Locations:
Gelato Go is actively expanding across major U.S. cities and high-traffic areas, including shopping centers, university towns, airports, and tourist destinations such as Miami, Orlando, Dallas, Atlanta, New York, and Chicago.


Financial Detail

CategoryEstimated Cost (USD)
Total Investment Required$200,000 – $350,000
Minimum Investment$200,000
Franchise Fee$35,000
Royalty Fee6% of gross sales
Marketing Fee2% of gross sales
Franchise Units (Approx.)20+
Equipment & Infrastructure Cost$80,000 – $120,000
Initial Inventory & Supplies$10,000 – $20,000
Working Capital$25,000 – $50,000
Marketing & Launch Budget$10,000 – $25,000
Expected ROI20% – 30% annually
Break-Even TimeTypically 18 – 30 months
Potential Revenue StreamsIn-store sales, takeout, catering, online orders, brand collaborations, and wholesale supply to restaurants and hotels.



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