Established
1990
Franchise Units
20
Minimum Investment
$700,000
Franchise Fee
$35,000
Total Investment Range
$1,200,000
Home Based
No
Description
The Ritter's Frozen Custard franchise represents a time-tested, indulgence-driven business model built around premium frozen custard, handcrafted burgers, and nostalgic American dining. Known for its rich, dense custard made fresh hourly, Ritter’s has carved out a loyal customer base across multiple U.S. markets by combining superior product quality with an inviting, family-friendly atmosphere.
Unlike standard ice cream concepts, Ritter’s Frozen Custard differentiates itself through its proprietary custard recipe, cooked fresh daily using high butterfat and egg yolk content. This commitment to quality creates a noticeable difference in taste and texture, positioning the brand as a premium yet approachable dessert-and-meal destination. Many locations also operate with a dual offering—frozen custard alongside made-to-order savory items—which significantly broadens daypart appeal and average ticket size.
From suburban neighborhoods to high-traffic retail corridors, Ritter’s locations benefit from strong repeat business, seasonal spikes, and community engagement. The brand’s nostalgic design, combined with modern operational systems, allows franchisees to tap into both emotional brand loyalty and consistent unit-level economics. For entrepreneurs seeking a recognizable dessert franchise with operational depth and strong consumer appeal, Ritter’s Frozen Custard stands out as a compelling U.S. franchise opportunity.
Why Invest in This Franchise?
Investing in Ritter’s Frozen Custard offers a balance of brand heritage, operational simplicity, and scalable growth potential.
Key reasons investors choose Ritter’s Frozen Custard include:
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Strong brand recognition in the frozen dessert and quick-service segment
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Premium product differentiation through fresh-made frozen custard
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Dual revenue streams from desserts and hot food offerings
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Proven franchise systems refined over decades of operation
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Family-friendly concept with broad demographic appeal
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Scalable footprint suitable for single-unit and multi-unit ownership
Background
- Established Year: 1990
- Founders: John and Cindy Saxe
- Industry Category: Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) – Frozen Custard & Burgers
- Franchise Active Units: 20+
Ritter’s Frozen Custard was founded in Florida with a simple mission: to serve the freshest, creamiest frozen custard possible in a welcoming environment. The brand quickly gained attention for its visible custard-making process, where customers could see custard prepared hourly, reinforcing trust, freshness, and quality.
Over the years, Ritter’s transitioned from company-owned growth into franchising, allowing the brand to expand its footprint across multiple U.S. states. Its franchise model emphasizes consistency, operational discipline, and community engagement, helping franchisees build strong local followings.
Today, Ritter’s Frozen Custard operates a robust network of franchised locations throughout the United States. The brand continues to evolve with menu innovation, operational upgrades, and marketing support while maintaining its core identity rooted in quality and tradition.
Support Training
Ritter’s Frozen Custard offers comprehensive franchise support designed to guide owners from pre-opening through long-term operations.
Pre-Launch Support:
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Site selection guidance and demographic analysis
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Store layout, design, and equipment specifications
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Assistance with lease review and build-out planning
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Vendor sourcing and supply chain coordination
Training Programs:
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In-depth initial training covering operations, food preparation, and customer service
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Hands-on instruction at certified training locations
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Management training focused on staffing, scheduling, and cost control
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Food safety, quality assurance, and compliance education
Operational Support:
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Proven operating manuals and standardized procedures
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Ongoing field support and performance evaluations
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Access to proprietary recipes, systems, and technology platforms
Marketing & Ongoing Support:
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Brand-wide marketing strategies and promotional calendars
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Local store marketing guidance and grand opening campaigns
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Digital marketing assets and seasonal promotion support
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Continued business coaching and system updates
This structured support framework allows franchisees to focus on execution while leveraging a refined system built on decades of experience.
Ideal Candidate
Ritter’s Frozen Custard is well-suited for owner-operators and investor-operators who value hands-on involvement and customer experience.
The ideal franchisee typically has:
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A passion for food service, hospitality, or community-based businesses
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Strong people-management and leadership skills
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Prior experience in QSR, retail, or multi-unit operations (preferred but not required)
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Adequate financial capacity to meet investment and working capital needs
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Commitment to maintaining brand standards and product quality
Ritter’s locations perform particularly well in suburban markets, family-oriented neighborhoods, and high-visibility retail areas. Multi-unit growth opportunities are attractive for franchisees looking to scale within protected territories.
Financial Detail
| Financial Component | Estimated Amount (USD) |
|---|---|
| Total Investment Required | $700,000 – $1,200,000 |
| Minimum Investment Required | ~$300,000 – $400,000 (liquid capital, market-dependent) |
| Initial Franchise Fee | ~$35,000 |
| Number of Franchise Units | 20+ active units in the USA |
| Real Estate & Leasehold Improvements | $300,000 – $600,000 |
| Equipment, Furniture & Fixtures | $150,000 – $300,000 |
| Technology & POS Systems | $15,000 – $30,000 |
| Initial Inventory & Supplies | $10,000 – $20,000 |
| Marketing & Grand Opening Budget | $10,000 – $25,000 |
| Working Capital (3–6 months) | $50,000 – $100,000 |
| Royalty Fee | ~6% of gross sales |
| Brand / Marketing Fund Contribution | ~1% – 2% of gross sales |
| Expected ROI | Competitive QSR dessert segment returns |
| Estimated Break-Even Period | 24 – 36 months |
| Primary Revenue Streams | Frozen custard, sundaes & concretes, burgers & sandwiches, seasonal specials, takeout & delivery |