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Rita's Italian Ice
Looking for a cool opportunity? How about a hot fudge opportunity? According to Rita’s, the company’s tag line “Ice Custard Happiness” is not just a saying. It’s a promise to deliver happiness to customers. And that happiness is delivered in many ways, with Italian and creme ice, Misto shakes (frozen custard and Italian ice), frozen custard (with or without hot fudge), gelati, and Blendini (frozen custard, Italian ice, and cookie bits). Customers can also choose the Ritaccino, a coffee drink, or Slenderita, a fat-free treat. Franchisees attend Cool University to learn Rita’s path to happiness. The company also provides real estate, construction, and business support.
Fast Facts
| Year established | 1984 |
| Franchising since | 1989 |
| Can be run from home? | No |
| Item 19 Financial Performance Representation? | Yes |
| Multiple units must be purchased in U.S. | No |
| Multiple units must be purchased outside U.S. | No |
| % of franchisees who own multiple units | 60% |
| Absentee ownership allowed? | Yes |
Franchise Unit Growth Rate
| Year | U.S. Franchises |
Non-U.S. Franchises |
Company-Owned Locations |
| 2011 | 552 | 0 | 1 |
| 2010 | 562 | 0 | 1 |
| 2009 | 560 | 0 | 1 |
Expanding in These Locations
| Total Investment | $199,400 - $444,900 |
| Franchise Fee | $35,000 |
| Royalty Fee | 6.5% |
| Net Worth | $300,000 |
| Liquid Capital | $100,000 |
| Does franchisor offer financing? | No |
| Is franchisor on the SBA's Franchise Registry? | Yes |
| Is franchisor a member of the IFA's VetFran program? | Yes |

