If you’re looking for a fun, mobile, and profitable food business, an Ice Cream Truck Franchise is one of the top choices in the United States. Ice cream has universal appeal, works well year-round in many states, and performs exceptionally well during warmer months and at events.
In this franchise review, we’ll cover everything you need to know—costs, profits, requirements, advantages, challenges, and whether owning an ice cream truck franchise is truly worth it.
What Is an Ice Cream Truck Franchise?
An Ice Cream Truck Franchise is a mobile food business where the franchisor provides:
- A branded, fully equipped ice cream truck
- Approved ice cream suppliers
- Training in operations & hygiene
- Marketing support
- Business setup help
- Event booking assistance
These trucks typically sell:
- Soft-serve ice cream
- Frozen yogurt
- Sundaes
- Popsicles
- Milkshakes
- Premium ice cream bars
- Seasonal specialties
Because of its mobility, the business can operate in parks, neighborhoods, beaches, schools, corporate offices, and festivals, making it highly flexible and profitable.
Franchise Overview
| Category | Details (Typical Range) |
| Initial Franchise Investment | $60,000 – $200,000+ |
| Franchise Fee | $10,000 – $40,000 |
| Royalty Fee | 4% – 8% |
| Marketing Fee | 1% – 3% |
| Truck Included? | Yes (often new or fully refurbished) |
| Staff Needed | 1–2 people |
| Monthly Revenue | $10,000 – $25,000+ |
| Net Profit Margin | 35% – 60% |
How an Ice Cream Truck Franchise Works
- Select a Franchise Brand
You choose a franchise that fits your budget and offers:
- Training
- A branded truck
- Supplier partnerships
- Marketing tools
- Local territory protection
Examples of offerings from popular ice cream truck franchises:
- Mobile POS system
- Exclusive product line
- Event booking software
- Graphics/branding package
- Equipment warranties
- Training & Setup
Most franchisors offer 1–2 weeks of training on:
- Preparing menu items
- Maintaining freezers and machines
- Local food truck regulations
- Pricing & sales
- Safety & hygiene protocols
- Customer service
You also get guidance on licenses and permits needed in your city.
- Launch Your Mobile Business
Your franchisor helps you identify high-traffic zones, including:
- Busy parks
- Beach areas
- College campuses
- Downtown business districts
- Stadium areas
- Music festivals
- Summer fairs
- Earn Through Daily Sales + Event Bookings
Ice cream trucks make money from:
- Daily street sales
- Birthday parties
- Corporate events
- Weddings
- School carnivals
- City fairs
- Sports events
Event-based revenue can significantly boost your overall earnings.
Ice Cream Truck Menu Options
Soft Serve Favorites
- Vanilla, chocolate, twist
- Sundaes
- Cones & waffle bowls
Pre-Packaged Treats
- Ice cream sandwiches
- Popsicles
- Candy-coated bars
Premium Items
- Artisan gelato cups
- Frozen yogurt
- Fruit sorbets
Drinks & Extras
- Milkshakes
- Cold coffees
- Slushies
Some franchises also allow seasonal menus like pumpkin-flavored shakes or holiday-themed sundaes.
Advantages of Ice Cream Truck Franchises
- High Demand During Warm Months
Spring and summer bring peak sales in most U.S. states.
- Lower Investment Than Brick-and-Mortar Ice Cream Shops
A store can cost $250,000–$450,000+, while a truck is much more affordable.
- Mobility = More Revenue
You can move to wherever customers are gathering—parks, festivals, beaches, and schools.
- Strong Event Revenue
Events like birthdays or corporate parties can earn $300–$1,500 per event.
- Simple Menu & Operations
You don’t need cooking experience; food handling is minimal.
- Strong Family-Friendly Appeal
Ice cream is loved by children and adults alike.
Disadvantages / Challenges
- Seasonal Fluctuation
Winter sales may drop significantly in colder states.
- Maintenance of Truck & Equipment
Freezers, generators, and soft-serve machines need regular upkeep.
- Local Licensing Varies
Permits differ by city and can include:
- Vendor permits
- Health inspections
- Parking permits
- Commissary requirements
- Competition
Your territory might have multiple ice cream trucks or local sellers.
Is an Ice Cream Truck Franchise Profitable?
Yes, highly—especially in spring and summer.
Typical monthly revenue ranges from $10,000 to $25,000+, depending on:
- Location
- Event bookings
- Weather
- Brand strength
Example Profit Breakdown
- Average daily sales: $300–$700
- Event earnings: $500–$1,500
- Monthly total revenue: $12,000+
- Profit margin: 35%–60%
Month-to-month profitability increases if you focus on:
- Peak seasons
- Festivals
- Corporate contracts
Best Locations for an Ice Cream Truck
Daily Operation Spots
- Parks
- Playgrounds
- Beachfronts
- College campuses
- Tourist spots
Event-Based Locations
- Birthday parties
- Corporate outings
- School fairs
- Community gatherings
- Sports tournaments
- County fairs
Who Should Invest in an Ice Cream Truck Franchise?
This business is best suited for:
- First-time entrepreneurs
- Food truck beginners
- Retirees seeking part-time work
- Families wanting to run a business together
- Anyone wanting a low-cost mobile food business
You don’t need advanced business skills—just basic management and customer service ability.
How to Choose the Best Ice Cream Truck Franchise
Use this checklist before investing:
✔ Franchise fee under $35,000
✔ Truck cost within your budget
✔ Territory protection included
✔ Low royalty fees (<6%)
✔ Strong training program
✔ Event assistance or booking support
✔ Positive franchisee reviews
✔ High-quality branded ice cream products
If a franchise meets most of these criteria, it’s worth considering.
Final Review: Is an Ice Cream Truck Franchise Worth It?
An Ice Cream Truck Franchise is absolutely worth it if you want a flexible, family-friendly, low-investment business with high seasonal demand. With the right locations and event bookings, owners can earn substantial profits—especially from spring to early fall.
The mobility, simple operations, and strong demand make this one of the best entry-level food franchise opportunities in the U.S.
FAQs
- How much does an ice cream truck franchise cost?
Most range from $60,000 to $200,000, depending on the truck size and brand.
- How much can an owner make?
Many franchisees earn $3,000–$10,000 per month in profit during peak seasons.
- Do I need food industry experience?
No. Training is provided, and ice cream operations are simple.
- Is an ice cream truck business seasonal?
Partly yes—sales peak in warm months.
- What permits are required?
Common requirements include:
- Food handler permit
- Vehicle permit
- Health inspection
- Business license
- Parking/route permit
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