As the larger of the two franchises, we offer the resources and support of a more established market presence, and we still have plenty of prime territory available
Rita’s Italian Ice holds a unique position in the $28 billion frozen desserts industry, serving two core products: Italian ice and frozen custard. Unlike ice cream franchises, which are so common they’ve become commoditized, Rita’s offers something no one else does in the franchising space. That immediately differentiates ourselves from competitors in the frozen desserts segment. Today, we take a head-to-head look at Rita’s vs. the Häagen-Dazs franchise so you can examine for yourself both the similarities and some important differences between the two brands.
A unique franchise concept
As a Rita’s owner, you’ll quickly be able to build up a base of dedicated fans. Our Italian ices, made fresh in stores, and our unbelievably rich and creamy frozen custard have a tendency to create fans for life. If you’ve tried it, you already know. If you haven’t tasted it yet, just wait. You’ll see what we’re talking about.
You can choose from many viable territories to open your Rita’s shop, from areas that allow you to introduce Rita’s to a new market to regions close to more established markets where Rita’s is already a known and beloved brand. We offer flexible footprints in addition to expansion opportunities through mobile unit and catering sales. It’s a simple business model that’s easy to operate.
Rita’s vs. Häagen-Dazs
| Rita’s | Häagen-Dazs | |
| Franchising since | 1989 | Mid 1970s |
| Total U.S. units | 600+ | 200+ |
| Initial investment | $172,225-$430,900 | $164,158 – $542,408 |
| Minimum liquidity | $100,000 | $80,000 |
| Minimum net worth | $300,000 | $200,000 |
| Franchise fee | $30,000 | $30,000 |
Sources: Entrepreneur.com; haagendazsshoppecompany.com/franchise
3 reasons to open a Rita’s franchise
Our business model is simple. With just two core products and no cooking, our business is easy to run and operates on high margins. That also makes it easier to train employees, and the fun working environment makes Rita’s an employer of choice for teens and young adults.
Rita’s is easy to scale. Start with your standard store, with walk-up or walk-in service and potential drive-thru service; then engage with your community through catering; and then consider our mobile program that allows you to grow your business outside your four walls and take the product to the consumer. Within these service models, you can find the right avenue to grow at your own pace.
Unique products draw customers. While ice cream and frozen yogurt have many competitors, Rita’s gives customers something new to try. That novelty gives you a major leg up when it comes to attracting and retaining customers. We offer frozen custard, the smoother, creamier version of soft-serve ice cream; and Italian ice, the upscale version of a slushy that’s made with water and real fruit. We make our products fresh in stores daily, combining them in different ways to come up with a variety of fun, cravable desserts. Rita’s is a fun, happy business.
Learn more about Rita’s
We hope you’ll continue to explore our research pages to see what our brand has to offer you. Ultimately, only you can decide who your winner is in the Rita’s vs. Häagen-Dazs competition. If you’d like to talk to someone on our franchise development team, just fill out this short form and someone will be in touch with you as soon as possible. We look forward to hearing from you!
