Dippin' Dots Franchise

Founded in 1988 and franchising since 1999, Dippin' Dots is a unique ice cream brand known for its distinctive bead-shaped ice cream, frozen yogurt, sherbet, and ice products. With a headquarters in Paducah, Kentucky, Dippin' Dots offers a variety of franchising models to suit different business interests, including fixed location stores, event sales, and vending machine placements.

Franchising Models

• Fixed location retail stores or kiosks
• Sales at events such as fairs and festivals
• Vending machines and freezer placements in retail locations

Training and Support

Dippin' Dots provides comprehensive training and support to ensure your franchise's success:

• Basic management training: 4-day program at the franchisor’s facility or a designated business location.
• Opening support: Up to two days of assistance during the opening of your franchise.
• Additional training: Refresher courses or advanced management training available as needed.

Territory and Performance

Dippin' Dots franchisees are granted a non-exclusive territory based on factors such as location, population density, and financial resources. Franchisees must adhere to performance plans, and failure to meet these standards may result in territory adjustments.

Obligations and Restrictions

• Management: The franchise must be managed by an on-site manager who has completed the basic management training.
• Product Offerings: Franchisees must sell all franchisor-approved goods and services.
• Operational Hours: Must adhere to minimum operational hours as specified by the franchisor.

Franchise Agreement Terms

• Initial term: 5 years
• Renewal: Two additional terms of 5 years each, subject to conditions

Financial Requirements

The initial investment for a Dippin' Dots franchise ranges from $119,704 to $366,950. Here are some key financial components:

• Initial Franchise Fee: $15,000
• Grand Opening Advertising: $500 to $2,500
• Equipment: $65,700 to $84,900
• Real Estate Improvements: $2,400 to $120,000

Ongoing Fees

• Royalty: $2.16 per gallon for bulk ice cream, $0.09 per unit for prepack units, up to 6% for ancillary items
• Advertising Fund Contributions: $0.24 per gallon for bulk ice cream, $0.01 per unit for prepack units, up to 2% for ancillary items
• Additional Fees: Training fees, relocation fees, POS system transaction fees, etc.

Key Takeaways

• Unique ice cream brand with multiple sales channels
• Comprehensive training and ongoing support
• Flexible franchise models to suit different business interests
• Initial investment: $119,704 to $366,950
• Non-exclusive territories with performance plans

Ready to embark on an exciting journey with Dippin' Dots? Download the franchise disclosure document or fill out the free information request form on this page to get started!