Call us at (267) 751-5184 to see if your territory is available
Call us at (267) 751-5184 to see if your territory is available
Rita’s combines a recognizable brand with a business model designed for efficiency. With more than 40 years of history and – as of December 31, 2025 – 605 total locations, the concept is built on simple operations, a limited ingredient menu, and strong repeat customer behavior. Franchisees benefit from a model that’s easier to manage than traditional food concepts, with clear structures that support scalable growth.
The startup costs necessary to begin operating a Rita’s franchise depend on the type of shop you plan to operate.
The total investment for:
Development agreements are available for multi-unit investors. The development fee for the first location is $35,000, with reduced fees for additional shops developed under the agreement.
We require that you have a minimum of $150,000 in Cash / Liquid Assets available for investment and $400,000 Net Worth (which may include accumulated Home Equity). These figures reflect the typical minimum standards most banks consider when approving a business loan.
Franchisees receive end-to-end support with services and assistance available before opening and during operation.
Before operation, Rita’s helps with site selection, design plans, initial training for franchisees and managers, on-site pre-opening and opening supervision and assistance when deemed appropriate, and support in several other areas as needed and outlined in the franchise agreement.
During the operation of your location(s), Rita’s will make marketing materials from the Brand Fund available, conduct inspections of your operations as advisable, provide advice and materials to support management and operations as appropriate, and conduct or arrange training for replacement managers.
These are just a few of the types of support available to you! Our Franchise Consultants and the Rita’s University program are designed to set every owner up for long-term success.
Not at all. Our simplified operations, no-cook menu, and small team structure make it accessible for both first-time and experienced business owners. We train you and a manager on everything you need to succeed. The Initial Training program combines:
Training covers everything from Italian ice and custard preparation and food safety to point-of-sale (POS) use and inventory management, as well as marketing programs and guest experience standards.
Additionally, we provide advice and written materials to help you manage and operate your business after you’ve opened. Support can cover a range of areas, including suggested inventory, cost-control methods, and new product developments and marketing techniques as needed.
Most locations run smoothly with just 1-5 team members per shift, far fewer than traditional quick-service restaurants (QSRs). This helps reduce labor costs and simplify scheduling.
The numbers tell a compelling story. Rita’s drive-thru shops reported an average of $508,897 in gross sales during 2025, while non drive-thru locations averaged $366,957, for a gap of roughly ~$142k. When evaluating real estate, a drive-thru-capable site is worth serious consideration.
*See FDD Item 19 for full details.
Many Rita’s shops operate seasonally, but some markets, especially those with drive-thrus or warmer climates, support year-round operations. Rita’s offers several formats, including standard shops, drive-thru locations, express shops, satellite shops, and mobile units. The right model depends on your market.
Not sure which is right for you and if you’ll operate year-round or seasonally? Part of our franchise process is working with you to determine the best model for your area.
Across all tiers, Rita’s locations are experiencing steady growth. According to Rita’s 2026 Franchise Disclosure Document, certain top-performing locations reported average gross sales of $558,000 in 2025. Additionally, our Drive-Thru Shop sales are +39% compared to standard shops. You can review the Franchise Disclosure Document for the full context, methodology, and performance details.
*NOTE: See item 19 of our *FDD dated January 30, 2026, for more information.
Our two signature products, Italian Ice and Frozen Custard, combine into a wide range of treats, including our fan favorite Gelati, which remains one of the most popular menu items across the system. With over 80 flavors and seasonal LTOs, our menu is designed to keep guests coming back for more.
Yes! Rita’s offers multi-unit opportunities and supports long-term growth for operators looking to expand their footprint. With multiple models available, Rita’s can work with you to find out what works best for your market.
We have significant whitespace across the U.S., especially in emerging markets. Each franchise agreement includes a defined territory. Territory size varies based on demographics, competition, and geography. Reach out to discuss your desired area and territory availability.
Timelines can vary based on shop type and real estate, but on average, it takes 6-12 months from signing to grand opening.
Yes! We provide national advertising and local marketing toolkits. PR support and ongoing promotions to help you drive foot traffic and awareness in your community. Additionally, we provide access to marketing materials and programs supported by the Brand Fund. Learn more about how we support our franchisees’ operations.
Rita’s leverages a robust digital ecosystem, including a mobile app, loyalty program, and integrated third-party delivery platforms, to boost customer engagement, streamline operations, and grow revenue. Before opening a location, we’ll train you on all the technology we use so you can begin operations with confidence.
