2014
15
$125,000
$35,000
$175,000
No
Ice Cream Emergency® is not your average ice cream shop—it’s a fully mobile, party-on-wheels experience that brings the joy of premium ice cream directly to customers. Designed as a one-of-a-kind ice cream catering franchise, Ice Cream Emergency has redefined the dessert catering industry by transforming traditional ice cream service into a memorable, interactive event. With a growing reputation across the United States, this franchise combines nostalgia, entertainment, and profitability into a proven business model that appeals to a wide range of audiences—from kids’ birthdays and corporate functions to weddings and community events.
The Ice Cream Emergency franchise stands out in the booming dessert and catering industry for its creative approach, strong brand identity, and operational simplicity. Instead of relying on expensive storefronts, franchisees operate custom-designed “Rescue Vehicles” (vibrant ice cream trucks) that deliver fun, excitement, and delicious treats to customers wherever they are. With a growing demand for unique, experiential catering options, Ice Cream Emergency has carved a strong niche in both the food truck and event franchise categories.
Investing in an Ice Cream Emergency franchise means joining a brand that thrives at the intersection of joy and profitability. The U.S. catering and events market continues to expand rapidly, with corporate gatherings, private parties, and school events seeking innovative dessert experiences. Ice Cream Emergency offers a flexible business model with low overhead, high profit margins, and the ability to scale easily with multiple vehicles and territories.
Franchisees benefit from a recognizable, fun brand name that practically markets itself—creating instant excitement in every community it serves. With no fixed retail location, franchisees save on rent, staffing, and maintenance costs, while operating a mobile business that can adapt to any market condition. The franchise also provides a turnkey model, comprehensive training, and ongoing support, making it a great fit for both experienced entrepreneurs and first-time business owners.
Established Year: 2014
Founders: Paul and Lynn Zajac
Headquarters: Connecticut, USA
Industry Category: Mobile Food & Dessert Catering
Franchise Units: 15+
Ice Cream Emergency was founded in 2014 by Paul and Lynn Zajac with the simple mission of bringing happiness to communities—one scoop at a time. What started as a local passion project in Connecticut has now evolved into a fast-growing franchise network known for its brightly colored rescue-themed vehicles and exceptional ice cream catering service.
Each Ice Cream Emergency truck—playfully called a “Rescue Vehicle”—is a fully equipped, temperature-controlled mobile parlor designed to serve premium ice cream in an entertaining, event-based setting. The brand’s whimsical approach to dessert catering has earned it loyal customers and repeat bookings from schools, corporations, non-profits, and families nationwide.
The franchise model was launched to help motivated entrepreneurs share in the success of this unique concept. With its established systems, strong brand identity, and community-focused mission, Ice Cream Emergency has positioned itself as one of the most exciting dessert franchise opportunities in the U.S.
Ice Cream Emergency believes that every franchisee should have the tools and confidence to succeed from day one. The franchise provides comprehensive pre-launch and ongoing support to ensure smooth operations and sustainable growth.
Pre-Launch Support:
Site & Territory Planning: Assistance in defining exclusive territories and identifying high-demand event markets.
Vehicle Setup: Guidance on purchasing, customizing, and equipping your Rescue Vehicle with all required features.
Initial Training: Intensive hands-on training at the headquarters covering ice cream service, event management, food safety, and customer engagement.
Operational Support:
Daily Operations Training: Standardized procedures for event setup, serving, scheduling, and logistics management.
Vendor Partnerships: Access to trusted suppliers for premium ice cream, toppings, and equipment at negotiated franchise pricing.
Technology & Software: Systems for managing bookings, customer communications, and invoicing.
Marketing & Brand Support:
Marketing Toolkit: Professionally designed digital and print materials for local promotion.
Social Media Guidance: Templates and brand content to drive engagement and awareness in your area.
National PR & Branding: Leverage the Ice Cream Emergency brand name and reputation through national marketing campaigns and media exposure.
Ongoing Support:
Continuous business coaching and operational assistance.
Access to franchise owner community and annual networking events.
Updates on new menu ideas, service innovations, and customer engagement strategies.
Ice Cream Emergency is designed for individuals who love making people happy, enjoy community engagement, and seek a flexible, event-based business model. The ideal franchisee is enthusiastic, customer-service driven, and enjoys being part of special moments in people’s lives.
Best Suited For:
Entrepreneurs looking for a home-based or mobile business with high community visibility.
Couples or families seeking a fun business they can operate together.
Investors wanting a scalable, low-overhead business model.
Individuals passionate about events, hospitality, or desserts.
Preferred Qualifications:
Strong interpersonal and organizational skills.
A customer-first attitude and love for community involvement.
Basic management or business background (though not mandatory).
Ability to invest in one or more territories.
Ice Cream Emergency franchisees often find deep personal satisfaction in seeing smiles at every event while generating strong financial returns. With flexible scheduling and the ability to work seasonally or year-round, it’s a lifestyle-friendly opportunity that blends profit with purpose.
The Ice Cream Emergency franchise offers an affordable entry into the booming mobile dessert and catering industry, with relatively low startup costs and strong return potential.
Estimated Investment Range: $125,000 – $175,000
Minimum Investment Required: Approximately $125,000
Franchise Fee: $35,000
Royalty Fee: 6% of gross sales
Marketing Fee: 2% of gross sales (for national and local marketing support)
Working Capital: $10,000 – $20,000
Vehicle & Equipment Cost: Included in total investment
Expected ROI: Typically within 18–30 months
Break-Even Period: Estimated 6–12 months, depending on territory and event volume
Potential Revenue Streams:
Private parties (birthdays, weddings, reunions)
Corporate events & employee appreciation programs
School & university functions
Festivals, fundraisers, and community celebrations
Seasonal contracts and recurring bookings
With low fixed expenses, strong repeat business, and high event margins, the Ice Cream Emergency franchise model offers excellent income potential while maintaining work-life flexibility.
