Established
2001
Franchise Units
200
Minimum Investment
$150,000
Franchise Fee
$25,000
Total Investment Range
$300,000
Home Based
No
Description
Pelican’s SnoBalls has carved out a unique and highly recognizable niche in the U.S. dessert franchise landscape by transforming a simple summer treat into a colorful, community-driven experience. Known for its signature New Orleans–style shaved ice, vibrant storefronts, and nostalgic brand personality, Pelican’s SnoBalls appeals to families, teens, and tourists alike. The brand blends a playful coastal theme with a scalable business model, making it one of the most approachable and affordable frozen dessert franchises in the United States.
Unlike traditional ice cream concepts that rely on heavy equipment and high labor costs, Pelican’s SnoBalls operates with a streamlined setup, minimal food waste, and strong seasonal demand. Its extensive flavor menu, customizable toppings, and proprietary shaved-ice process create a differentiated product that keeps customers coming back. As consumer demand continues to rise for experiential, Instagram-worthy dessert brands, Pelican’s SnoBalls is well-positioned for expansion across suburban, urban, and seasonal tourist markets.
For entrepreneurs seeking a lower-cost entry into franchising with strong brand recognition, simple operations, and multiple format options—including storefronts, kiosks, and mobile units—Pelican’s SnoBalls presents a compelling investment opportunity in the U.S. frozen dessert sector.
Why Invest in the Pelican’s SnoBalls Franchise?
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Strong Brand Identity: A fun, family-friendly brand with broad appeal and instant recognition.
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Simple Operations Model: No grills, fryers, or complex food prep—ideal for first-time franchisees.
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Lower Investment Compared to QSRs: Reduced build-out, equipment, and staffing costs.
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Seasonal Profit Potential: High margins during peak spring and summer months.
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Flexible Formats: Brick-and-mortar stores, food trucks, kiosks, and event-based sales.
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Repeat Customer Base: Loyal following driven by flavor variety and customizable options.
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Scalable & Multi-Unit Friendly: Suitable for operators looking to grow across multiple territories.
Background
Established Year: 2001
Founders: The brand was founded by entrepreneurs inspired by traditional New Orleans shaved ice culture, adapting it for family-oriented communities across the U.S.
Industry Category: Frozen Desserts / Shaved Ice Franchise
Franchise Active Units: 200+ locations operating across multiple U.S. states
Brand Journey & History:
Pelican’s SnoBalls began as a single shaved ice stand and quickly gained popularity due to its unique texture, vibrant flavors, and welcoming atmosphere. Over time, the brand refined its proprietary ice-shaving process and expanded its flavor offerings, laying the foundation for franchising. Today, Pelican’s SnoBalls has grown into one of the most recognizable shaved ice franchises in America, with a strong footprint in suburban and family-centric markets.
Ownership & Market Presence:
The brand operates under a franchised model, with most locations independently owned and operated. Its presence is especially strong in the Southeast and Midwest, with continued expansion opportunities across the USA.
Support Training
Pelican’s SnoBalls offers comprehensive franchise support designed to help new owners launch smoothly and operate efficiently:
Pre-Launch Support
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Site selection guidance and territory evaluation
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Store layout and design specifications
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Equipment sourcing and supplier coordination
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Assistance with permits, inspections, and local compliance
Training Program
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Initial hands-on training covering operations, product preparation, and customer service
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Staff hiring and onboarding systems
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POS systems and inventory management training
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Food safety and quality control standards
Marketing & Brand Support
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Grand opening marketing strategies
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Branded promotional materials and seasonal campaigns
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Social media content guidelines and local marketing playbooks
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Ongoing brand-wide promotions and limited-time flavors
Ongoing Operational Support
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Field support and operational coaching
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Continued product innovation and menu development
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Access to franchisee network and best-practice sharing
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Performance reviews and business optimization tools
Ideal Candidate
Pelican’s SnoBalls is ideal for entrepreneurs who value simplicity, community engagement, and brand-driven retail experiences.
Best Suited For:
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First-time franchise owners seeking a proven, easy-to-run model
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Family operators or owner-operators
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Multi-unit investors looking for seasonal or complementary concepts
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Entrepreneurs with strong local marketing and people-management skills
Key Traits:
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Passion for customer service and community involvement
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Willingness to follow brand systems and standards
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Ability to manage seasonal staffing
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Interest in operating in family-oriented, high-traffic locations
Preferred Locations:
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Suburban neighborhoods
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Tourist destinations and beach towns
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Near schools, parks, and family entertainment zones
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Seasonal markets with high foot traffic
Financial Detail
| Financial Component | Estimated Amount (USD) |
|---|---|
| Franchise Fee | ~$25,000 |
| Total Initial Investment | $150,000 – $300,000 |
| Minimum Investment Required | ~$150,000 |
| Build-Out & Infrastructure Cost | $60,000 – $140,000 |
| Equipment & Initial Inventory | $25,000 – $45,000 |
| Marketing & Grand Opening Budget | $5,000 – $15,000 |
| Working Capital (Initial Months) | $20,000 – $40,000 |
| Royalty Fee | ~6% of gross sales |
| Brand / Advertising Fund | ~1% – 2% of gross sales |
| Expected Break-Even Time | 18 – 30 months |
| Estimated ROI Potential | Strong seasonal cash flow |
| Primary Revenue Streams | In-store sales, catering, events, mobile units, merchandise |
