mobile ice cream business plan

Mobile Ice Cream Business Idea Description in 5 W’s and 1 H Format

By henry sheykin, resources on mobile ice cream.

• Financial Model
• Business Plan
• Value Proposition
• One-Page Business Plan
• SWOT Analysis
• Business Model
• Marketing Plan

Are you ready for a sweet business opportunity that will have you scooping up success? Introducing the Mobile Ice Cream business idea, an innovative and delectable venture that is set to revolutionize the way we enjoy frozen treats. Led by seasoned entrepreneur John Smith, this mobile ice cream storefront will make its mark at events and public gatherings, tantalizing taste buds across the United States. Based in the vibrant city of New York, but with plans to traverse various cities and states, this business is poised to capitalize on the high demand for on-the-go ice cream experiences.

With the launch scheduled for the summer of 2024, just in time for the peak ice cream season, this business is set to make a splash. So, why mobile ice cream? Well, the market is sizzling hot, with the US ice cream industry valued at a staggering $XX billion in 2021, and set to grow even more. In a world where convenience is king, people are craving unique flavors and menu items that they can enjoy wherever they go. And that's where John Smith's Mobile Ice Cream business comes in, ready to serve up a mouthwatering array of frozen delights. From classic favorites to innovative creations, this venture promises to satisfy even the most discerning dessert connoisseurs.

So, whether you're in need of a refreshing treat at a bustling city festival or craving some indulgence at a sunny park picnic, keep an eye out for the Mobile Ice Cream storefront on wheels. Get ready to embark on a delightful journey of flavor exploration, as John Smith's passion for ice cream takes you on a delectable adventure that will leave you wanting more. Don't miss out on this tantalizing opportunity – join the Mobile Ice Cream revolution today!

Key Takeaways

• John Smith is a seasoned entrepreneur with experience in the food industry.
• The business is a mobile ice cream storefront that operates at events and public gatherings.
• The business will be based in New York City but will travel to various cities and states across the United States.
• The venture will be launched in the summer of 2024, in time for the peak ice cream season.
• The purpose of the business is to meet the high demand for mobile ice cream at events and provide unique flavors and menu items.

The major players in this hypothetical mobile ice cream business idea are John Smith, a seasoned entrepreneur with experience in the food industry, as the owner of the business. He will be responsible for the overall management and strategic direction of the company.

John Smith will hire a skilled team of staff members who will assist with production and service. These staff members will be trained in ice cream production and customer service to ensure a high-quality experience for customers.

In addition to the owner and staff members, the business may also seek advice from industry experts or consultants to optimize operations and stay up to date with industry trends.

The owner of the business is John Smith, a seasoned entrepreneur with experience in the food industry. John Smith has a proven track record of success and brings his expertise and knowledge to this new venture.

In the future, if the business expands and requires additional funding, there may be potential for additional owners or investors to join the company.

The business will have a skilled team of staff members who will assist with production and service. These staff members will be responsible for tasks such as ice cream production, customer service, and event logistics.

The personnel will receive training to ensure that they have the necessary skills and knowledge to provide a high-quality experience for customers. They will be chosen based on their experience in the food industry and their ability to work in a fast-paced and customer-focused environment.

The business may seek advice from industry experts or consultants to optimize operations and stay up to date with industry trends. These advisors will provide valuable insights and guidance to help the business succeed.

These advisors may include professionals with experience in the food industry, event planning, and marketing. Their expertise will be invaluable in ensuring the business stays competitive and meets the needs of its target audience.

The target audience for this mobile ice cream business is the general public, specifically those attending events, festivals, carnivals, and other public gatherings. The business aims to create a memorable and enjoyable experience for customers while meeting the high demand for mobile ice cream at these types of events.

The business will focus on providing unique flavors and menu items that stand out from traditional ice cream trucks, appealing to customers looking for something different and exciting.

Competition

The mobile ice cream business will face competition from other ice cream vendors operating at events, festivals, and carnivals. These competitors may include traditional ice cream trucks, other mobile storefronts, and even local ice cream shops.

To differentiate itself from the competition, the business will focus on offering unique flavors and menu items that are not commonly found elsewhere. By providing a memorable and enjoyable experience for customers, the business aims to stand out and attract a loyal customer base.

The hypothetical Mobile Ice Cream business aims to provide a unique and memorable ice cream experience at events, festivals, carnivals, and other public gatherings. This mobile storefront, based in New York City but operating across various cities and states in the United States, will offer a wide range of flavors and menu items that stand out from traditional ice cream trucks.

What do we want to achieve?

Our ultimate goal is to meet the high demand for mobile ice cream and become a sought-after vendor at public events. We aim to create a loyal customer base and generate significant profits by offering exceptional ice cream and delivering a delightful experience to our customers.

What is our sustainable advantage?

Our sustainable advantage lies in our commitment to providing unique flavors and menu items that set us apart from competitors. By sourcing premium ingredients from local suppliers and utilizing a state-of-the-art mobile storefront equipped with a commercial kitchen, we can ensure the highest quality ice cream. Additionally, our exclusive contracts with event planners and organizers will provide a steady stream of customers, enhancing our visibility and reputation.

What do we offer?

We offer a wide variety of delicious and innovative ice cream flavors, ranging from classics to seasonal specials. Our menu will also include dairy-free and vegan options to cater to diverse dietary preferences. Customers can expect exceptional service from our skilled team of staff members who are dedicated to creating a memorable and enjoyable experience.

What do we produce?

We produce high-quality ice cream using premium ingredients sourced from local suppliers. Our ice cream is made fresh in our mobile storefront's commercial kitchen, ensuring its freshness and superior taste. Each batch is carefully crafted to deliver the perfect texture and flavor, guaranteeing customer satisfaction.

What are our business objectives?

Our short-term goal is to establish a strong presence at various events and festivals, building brand recognition and attracting a loyal customer base. In the long term, we aim to expand our operations and become a recognizable name in the mobile ice cream industry. By the end of the second month, we anticipate selling $100,000 worth of our product, demonstrating our potential for growth and profitability.

The mobile ice cream storefront business will be based in New York City. However, it will not be confined to one specific location. The key feature of this venture is its mobility, allowing it to travel to various cities and states across the United States. This flexibility allows the business to tap into different markets and cater to a wide range of customers at events, festivals, carnivals, and other public gatherings.

Location of the Business

Although the business will be based in New York City, its actual location will continuously change based on the events and gatherings it attends. This mobility is a fundamental aspect of the business model, enabling it to reach different demographics and target audience across the United States. By operating in various cities and states, the business can cater to local tastes and preferences, creating a unique and exciting experience for customers.

Target Audience

The target audience of this mobile ice cream storefront business is diverse and encompasses individuals of all ages who attend events, festivals, and carnivals. The business aims to attract families with children, young adults, and ice cream enthusiasts who appreciate unique flavors and menu items. By offering a wide variety of options, including vegan and gluten-free alternatives, the business can cater to a broader customer base.

New Opportunities

The mobility of the ice cream storefront presents numerous new opportunities for the business. By traveling to different cities and states, the venture can tap into markets that may have limited access to traditional ice cream trucks or unique ice cream flavors. This opens up opportunities to establish partnerships with local suppliers and artisans, creating a collaborative and sustainable network. Additionally, the business can leverage its mobility to participate in seasonal events or target areas with high tourist footfall, maximizing its reach and revenue potential.

From Where We Are to Where We Want to Be

To establish and grow the mobile ice cream storefront business, we will start by acquiring a state-of-the-art mobile storefront, equipped with a commercial kitchen and high-quality utensils. This will enable us to produce and serve premium-quality ice cream at various locations.

We will then focus on building a skilled team of staff members who are passionate about providing exceptional customer service and creating a memorable experience for our customers. These team members will assist with production and service, ensuring that our ice cream is always fresh and of the highest quality.

The business will take a proactive approach in establishing exclusive contracts with event planners and organizers. This will help us secure a steady stream of customers and streamline our operations. By being present at popular events and festivals, we can gain visibility and build brand recognition.

As we expand to different cities and states, we will actively engage with local suppliers to source premium ingredients. This will enable us to create unique and exceptional flavors that stand out from the competition.

Our ultimate goal is to become a recognized and well-loved mobile ice cream brand across the United States. By consistently providing delicious ice cream and a memorable experience, we aim to generate significant profits, while also creating long-term sustainability and profitability for our business.

When it comes to the hypothetical Mobile Ice Cream business idea, there are several key timelines to consider. It is crucial to have a clear understanding of when certain goals will be met, when the business will start operating, when objectives will be achieved, and when retirement or exit strategies will come into play.

Business Start

The Mobile Ice Cream storefront is anticipated to begin its operations in the summer of 2024, strategically timed to align with the peak ice cream season. By launching during this period, the business aims to maximize its visibility and capitalize on the increased demand for refreshing treats during the warmer months.

Business Plan Execution and Results

The business plan will be put into action shortly before the launch, giving ample time to secure necessary permits, procure the state-of-the-art mobile storefront, and finalizing contracts with suppliers and event organizers. It is anticipated that once the business starts operating, it will rapidly gain traction and start seeing results within the first few months.

Objective Achievement

The objectives of the Mobile Ice Cream business span both short-term and long-term goals. In the short term, the business aims to establish a strong presence in the New York City market and build a loyal customer base. This is expected to be achieved within the first year of operation.

In the long term, the objective is to expand the business across various cities and states in the United States. The timeline for achieving this expansion goal is projected to be within the initial five years of operation. The focus will be on securing exclusive contracts with event planners and organizers, allowing for a steady stream of customers and optimizing operational efficiency.

Retirement and Departure Strategy

Looking ahead, the retirement or exit strategy of John Smith, the seasoned entrepreneur behind the Mobile Ice Cream business, is a critical consideration. Tentatively, John plans to retire from the company after twenty years of successful operation, envisioning a specific year after 2023 for his departure.

Upon retirement, the preferred strategy is to sell the firm, ensuring a smooth transition for both staff and customers. John aims to sell the business within a few years after his retirement, in a specific year after 2023. This timeframe allows for the new owner to take over and continue building upon the established success of the Mobile Ice Cream storefront.

Overall, the timelines presented in this hypothetical Mobile Ice Cream business idea provide a structured roadmap for achieving various milestones and ensuring a prosperous future. Emphasizing the importance of timing, the business plans to launch at the opportune moment, work towards accomplishing short-term and long-term objectives, and ultimately culminate in a successful retirement and business transition.

The mobile ice cream storefront business addresses the high demand for ice cream at public events and aims to provide customers with a unique and memorable experience. Unlike traditional ice cream trucks, this venture focuses on offering exclusive flavors and menu items that stand out. By doing so, it aims to attract customers and generate significant profits through its mobility and ability to reach a wide audience.

Customers would want to choose this mobile ice cream business because it offers a diverse range of flavors and menu items that are not readily available elsewhere. The use of premium ingredients sourced from local suppliers ensures the highest quality ice cream, satisfying customers' cravings for a delicious treat. Additionally, the business's presence at popular events, festivals, and carnivals provides customers with convenient access to ice cream in a fun and enjoyable setting.

Compared to its competitors, this mobile ice cream business stands out due to its focus on delivering unique and exclusive flavors. By offering menu items that are not easily found elsewhere, customers are compelled to choose this business over traditional ice cream trucks or other mobile ice cream vendors. The state-of-the-art mobile storefront equipped with a commercial kitchen and high-quality utensils also sets this business apart, ensuring efficient production and service.

The mission of this mobile ice cream business is to create a memorable and enjoyable experience for customers. By offering unique flavors and menu items, the business aims to delight customers and leave a lasting impression. Moreover, it seeks to meet the high demand for ice cream at public events, contributing to the overall enjoyment of attendees. The business's objectives include generating significant profits by establishing exclusive contracts with event planners and organizers, ensuring a steady stream of customers and long-term sustainability.

The mobile ice cream storefront business will be structured as a limited liability company (LLC). This structure offers a balance between simplicity and liability protection, which is crucial in the food industry. As an LLC, John Smith will have personal asset protection and will not be personally liable for any debts or liabilities of the business. This structure also allows for flexibility in management and taxation.

To ensure a smooth registration process and compliance with rules and regulations, John will engage with a business attorney who specializes in the food industry. The attorney will provide expert advice on the necessary licenses, permits, and health regulations required to operate the mobile ice cream storefront. This partnership will help navigate any legal complexities and mitigate potential liabilities.

In order to achieve the company objectives, John will hire a skilled team of staff members who will assist with production and service. Hiring employees will allow him to focus on strategic decisions and growth opportunities while delegating day-to-day operations to capable individuals. John understands that building a reliable and competent team is essential for meeting customer demands and maintaining a high-quality standard.

The steps to achieve the company objectives will involve careful planning and execution. John will establish exclusive contracts with event planners and organizers to secure a steady stream of customers. These partnerships will ensure a predictable calendar of events and minimize downtime. John will also actively engage with customers to gather feedback and continuously improve the unique flavors and menu items offered by the mobile ice cream storefront. This customer-centric approach will not only help meet objectives but also foster customer loyalty and drive word-of-mouth marketing.

Future Development:

The vision for the mobile ice cream storefront is to become the go-to choice for unique and high-quality ice cream experiences at events and gatherings across the United States. The business aims to expand its footprint to major cities and states, bringing delight to ice cream enthusiasts nationwide. With the mobility of the storefront, the business has the potential to quickly respond to changing consumer trends and preferences, offering innovative flavors and menu items that align with evolving customer tastes.

In the future, the mobile ice cream storefront envisions establishing its own brand of premium ice cream, leveraging its expertise, reputation, and customer base. By manufacturing and distributing its own products, the business can tap into new revenue streams and strengthen its position in the market. This expansion will require strategic partnerships with local suppliers and distributors to ensure consistent supply chains and maintain the high quality that customers expect.

• Expand into new markets by targeting popular events and festivals in different states.
• Establish a network of licensed franchisees to expand the reach of the mobile ice cream storefront.
• Incorporate environmentally-friendly practices, such as using eco-friendly packaging and sourcing sustainable ingredients, to align with growing consumer preferences for sustainable businesses.
• Collaborate with local charity organizations and community events to give back to the community and enhance brand reputation.

With a commitment to innovation, exceptional customer experiences, and strategic growth strategies, the mobile ice cream storefront is poised for long-term success in the dynamic and competitive food industry.

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Ice Cream Shop Business Plan

Ever dreamed of owning an ice cream shop?

If yes, you’ve stumbled upon the coolest business idea. It’s time to elevate your entrepreneurial journey from sugary dreams to scoopable reality!

But before you start, there’s an important step to sweet success: drafting your business plan. Also, it requires careful planning, a keen idea about your market size, and sprinkles of creativity.

Not to worry; we’re here to help you with our ice cream shop business plan ! It is a strategic roadmap guiding you toward the vibrant, bustling ice cream parlor that you’ve always imagined.

In this guide, you can explore the essential elements you need to know for a well-crafted business plan that’s bringing your very own ice cream shop to life.

So, lace up your apron, and let’s delve into the art of crafting your ice cream shop business plan.

Key Takeaways

• Create an interesting executive summary that highlights your goals, marketing plan, and team expertise to draw potential investors.
• Conduct thorough market research and competitive analysis to better understand industry trends and customer needs.
• Mention your ice cream shop business descriptions to advertise your business and reach a wider audience.
• Build a strong online presence and an effective marketing plan to attract more customers.
• Keep a realistic and strategic financial plan to assess startup costs and secure funding resources for an ice cream business.
• Develop a delightful sample menu that represents unique ice cream offerings and encourages customers to explore different flavors.
• Use SWOT analysis tools to evaluate your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats for informed decision-making.

Ice Cream Industry Outlook

Before diving right into the guide to ice cream business plan, let’s go through some ice cream industry statistics and trends:

• The ice cream market revenue amounts to $19.13 billion in 2023, and the market is projected to rise annually by 3.64% (CAGR 2023-2028).
• The U.S. ice cream makers churned out 1.38 billion gallons of ice cream in 2022. The average American consumes roughly 20 pounds of ice cream or about 4 gallons, each year.
• For the ice cream market, volume is estimated to be 4.16 billion kg by 2028. It is expected to show a volume growth of 1.1% in 2024.
• The North American ice cream market size is projected at $22.63 billion in 2023; and is estimated to reach $26.52 billion by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 2.68% during the forecast period (2023-2029).
• The global ice cream market will reach $104.96 billion in 2029, up from $71.52 billion in 2021 due to the increasing cravings for ice cream.
• Chocolate, Cookies & cream, Vanilla, Strawberry, Buttered Pecan, and Chocolate Chip are the top ice cream flavors in the U.S.
• Non-dairy ice creams, plant-based ingredients, and low-calorie or no-sugar ice creams have gained popularity among health-conscious consumers compared to regular ice creams.

Key Components of an Ice Cream Business Plan

• Executive Summary
• Business Overview
• Market and Competitor Analysis
• Ice cream Menu
• Marketing Strategy
• Management Team
• Operational Plan
• Financial Plan

1. Executive Summary

An executive summary is a quick overview of your entire business plan. It should be clear, concise, and compelling as it attracts investors to delve further into your plan.

Start your summary with a brief description of your ice cream shop concept including the name, location, and type of ice cream shop you are running.

After that, try to outline a few important topics, from objectives and core values to a coherent vision for your brand, that will be explored in greater detail within the plan.

Clearly state your business’s unique selling proposition(USP), market opportunity, and target customers. Don’t forget to mention all the key members and financial projections of your ice cream parlor.

You can also add a 3-year profit forecast to emphasize the potential for profitability.

Lastly, conclude this section with an effective call to action for inviting potential investors or readers if they are curious about your ice cream shop.

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2. Business Overview

The business overview section compliments the executive summary and provides a quick look at your ice cream shop. Draft specific details about your business here.

First, introduce the ice cream shop’s business model, including ownership, legal structure(S-Corp, LLC or a sole proprietorship), and shop location.

Also, mention what type of business you are operating; for instance, it will be one of the below types of ice cream shop businesses:

• Self-service ice cream shop: Allows customers to fill their own containers with desired ice cream flavors and toppings.
• Ice cream truck: An easy way to reach more customers in different areas.
• Gourmet ice cream shop: Caters to customers seeking premium frozen desserts and high-quality experience.
• Franchise ice cream shop: Operates under the esteemed brand and follows the meticulous operational standards set by the franchisor.

Don’t forget to add a mission statement in this section, as it is a brief of your ice cream shop’s guiding principles. Here is an example of the mission statement for an ice cream store using Upmetrics:

Next, discuss a little bit more about your business background and how your ice cream shop works. Try to give answers for when you start your business and what are the long-term goals of your brand.

In addition, highlight any milestones you have accomplished, such as the number of customers served, positive reviews, new ice cream parlor openings, etc.

3. Market and Competitor Analysis

Launching an ice cream shop business demands a strategic roadmap and an ice cream shop industry analysis. So, take some time to go further and perform careful market research in your area.

Start this section by presenting a quick summary of the ice cream shop industry and define the local market size (in dollars), historical background, and growth potential.

With proper market research and industry analysis, you can assess that the market for ice cream shops is bustling with competition, going from self-serve frozen yogurt zones to dreamy ice cream parlors.

So, identify your target market demographics, including age, gender, income level, and preferences. Want help creating a buyer persona for your ice cream shop business?

Employ Upmetrics’ AI-powered Assistance now and write brief sections of your business plans. Follow the given prompt or revise it to make a bunch of buyer persona profiles for your target customers:

Explore the current landscape and assess key players to understand their strengths and weaknesses. Perform a thorough ice cream industry analysis to recognize direct and indirect competitors.

Direct competitors can be other ice cream shops, while frozen yogurt shops or dessert cafes can be indirect competitors.

Monitor their product offerings, pricing plan, and customer engagement approach. So, you need a strong, memorable, and coherent ice cream brand that addresses gaps in the market.

Conduct a SWOT analysis to find internal strengths & weaknesses of your ice cream shop and external opportunities & threats in the ice cream market. Based on that, outline unique selling points and competitive edge.

Not only that, you can also explain local government regulatory rules and emerging market trends that might impact the ice cream shop industry.

4. Ice cream Menu

Designing a sample ice cream menu is the most important asset for writing an ice cream shop business plan. It is a productive step in presenting your business plan to potential clients and investors.

Summarize the uniqueness of your offerings that set your brand apart from other ice cream shops. Start by listing all the flavors of ice creams, toppings, and specialty items your shop will offer. That might be:

• Classic flavors(Vanilla, Chocolate, Strawberry, Cookies and Cream, Butter Pecan, etc.)
• Signature flavors (Hazelnut Delight, Caramel Sensation, Cheesecake Bliss, Espresso Crunch, etc.)
• Seasonal Specials(Pumpkin Spice Delight, Apple Cinnamon Harvest, Lemonade Fizz Fling, etc.)
• Creative Cones(Bubblegum Burst Cone, Cinnamon Sugar Twist Cone)
• Ice cream floats
• frozen yogurt selections
• Customizable ice cream flights
• Ice cream cakes
• Sorbet and Sherbet options

Showcase that your ice cream products cater to a diverse customer base and ensure that there’s something for everyone. Clearly emphasize innovative flavors and unique combinations to grab customer attention.

Add creative names and descriptions to enhance the overall appeal of your menu. Use vibrant language to portray delightful flavors, the aroma of freshly made waffle cones, and any special features.

Implement a transparent and strategic pricing structure for delightful explorations that reflect the quality and craftsmanship behind each product.

Check the below example from Upmetrics to draft your ice cream shop product offerings:

You might enclose details about whether you will sell ice cream cakes from a local vendor or make your own, and what kind of ingredients, dairy products, flavorings, and serving methods you will feature.

If applicable, consider including any interactive elements into the menu, such as QR codes for online videos revealing the making process of irresistible offerings or customer testimonials.

5. Marketing Strategy

Demonstrate a comprehensive marketing plan to attract a diverse customer base. Develop a multifaceted approach for brand promotion and customer engagement.

Think about the key elements mentioned below to add in your sales and marketing plan:

Establish a unique personality of an ice cream store via a professional website and brand logo. Highlight your shop atmosphere, ice cream offerings, artisanal flavors,  customer reviews, and locally sourced ingredients.

Social Media platforms

Use the power of social media(Instagram, Facebook, Twitter) to present your ice cream creations. Regularly publish visually appealing content, such as high-quality images, catchy captions, and promotional activities to maximize reach.

Offline Advertising

Effectively reach your target audience using offline channels. Use traditional advertising methods like brochures, newspapers, and social gatherings. Also, get in touch with the local community through outreach initiatives.

Events and influencer collaborations

Participate in local events or carnivals to raise brand visibility. Collaborate with influencers who align with your brand value and attract their followers to your ice cream shop.

Promotions and loyalty programs

Involve special discounts, buy one get one free offer or seasonal promotions to draw new customers and retain existing ones. Also, introduce loyalty programs to offer rewards for frequent patrons.

Take a reference from the below example written using our AI assistant, describing marketing strategy for ice cream shops:

Pence’s Frozen Custard will use multiple methods to approach its target markets. Since our most difficult task will be attracting customers for that first tasting, we have a two-tiered approach. First, a mass mailing campaign will create customer awareness and generate trials. This will include coupons and our “Grand Opening” offer: with a coupon, your first dessert at Pence’s in April or May is free. The initial cost of this offer will be more than offset by repeat sales later. After this initial campaign, our marketing strategy will focus on our two target markets separately.

For 18-24-year-olds, Pence’s will distribute flyers on campus and at the bus station. We will also seek permission to place fliers on the doors of apartment rentals and apartment complexes. To further reach the “Town and Gown” niche of this market, we will purchase radio ads on specific radio stations that feature R&B music.

To reach the “first families” more effectively, we plan to sponsor events and help out with local elementary schools and after-school activities. Such plans include: sponsoring a little league team; offering a tour of the shop to elementary school students; and giving coupons and promotional information to the children to bring their families in.

All of these marketing campaigns will be supplemented by ongoing “brand awareness” campaigns, with advertisements in the local paper, interviews with the college newspaper (as the owner is a graduate), and fliers posted at popular local events. We will highlight our community service involvement as part of our “good neighbor” approach to doing business in this area.

6. Management Team

Allowing your readers or investors to know about your management team will help them have a clear idea of who is operating your ice cream shop.

So, mention the ice cream shop’s general manager, marketing team, or some combination of ice cream confectioner and financier in this section. Here is an illustration of a strong management team with the help of Upmetrics:

Highlight each individual’s specific roles and responsibilities, including their skills and prior experience relevant to ice cream businesses. If so, mention those experiences in your business plan to show their ability.

Doing so is very important to prevent any misunderstandings once the business is up and running.

Next, describe the compensation plan or salary structure in this section. This can help key stakeholders to ascertain how much percentage of the revenues is allocated to salaries. Refer to below as an example:

Not only that, you can also state advisory board members by including 2 -3 individuals who act like mentors to your business. They would direct you with strategic guidance and add credibility to your business idea.

7. Operational Plan

As specific information on day-to-day operations is a map for achieving business objectives and customer satisfaction, it’s time to emphasize a precise operational plan for an ice cream shop business.

Begin with a quick intro that summarizes the pivotal role of everyday operations and the supply chain for the frozen treats on your menu. Then, give a detailed overview of daily activities that navigate your business.

Specify the staffing requirements for your shop, defining the number of front-of-house and back-of-house associates. From scoopers to kitchen staff and cashiers, mention their roles and responsibilities.

Consider some factors like peak hours and seasonal variations to determine staffing levels. Here is an example from Upmetrics depicting the personnel plan for ice cream shops:

Facility Management

To ensure a smooth operation, discuss the daily facility management tasks such as opening and closing routines, maintaining schedules for equipment & fixtures, and making ice cream and serving customers.

Technology/software

Leverage technology/software for daily operations, including point-of-sale systems for order processing, inventory management for ingredient level tracking, and CRM tools for personalized communication or feedback.

Customer experience

Take specific steps to ensure a fun and safe customer experience. Involve staff training for a welcoming environment and cleaning protocols for food safety measures and contribute to a favorable customer experience.

8. Financial Plan

For a successful ice cream shop business, you will need a well-structured and in-depth financial plan with a realistic financial projection.

It is the most important section for investors as it offers a clear picture of the ice cream shop’s projected profitability, fiscal growth, and cash generation capacity.

While developing a financial plan, you can highlight the income statement, cash flow statement, balance sheet, break-even analysis, and funding needs for 3-5 years.

In this section, you need to make a few assumptions. it will greatly affect the financial forecasts of your business. Refer to Upmetrics’ template to make important assumptions for your ice cream shop business:

Define all the necessary components explained below in your business plan:

Income statement

An income statement is generally known as a profit and loss statement, or P&L, showing the net profit of your ice cream shop business by deducting expenses from total earnings.

Here is an example of a projected profit & loss statement for an ice cream shop business using Upmetrics:

Cash flow statement

This statement enables you to notice how much money you need to start or grow your ice cream shop business and ensure that you never run out of money.

Sometimes, you get profits but still face financial issues that could lead to bankruptcy. Thus, you will require suitable cash flow planning to avoid such cases.

Also, don’t forget to maintain this statement even for certain months before earning profits.

Balance sheet

The balance sheet indicates your ice cream shop business’s net worth at a specific point in time. It classifies all your ice cream shop’s financial data into three parts: assets, liabilities, and equity.

Typically, a balance sheet is prepared once a year. For your ice cream shop business plan, create a projected balance sheet that emphasizes the income statement and cash flow projections.

All the above financial factors can help you specify the break-even point and funding needs. Evaluate the funding resources, including bank loans, SBA-guaranteed loans, angel investors, and personal savings.

However, calculating all the financial statements from scratch can be challenging. But not to worry; here is a simple solution.

Use our robust financial forecasting tool to develop all financial aspects for launching your own ice cream shop business.

Get Your Free Ice Cream Parlor Business Plan Template

Are you ready to start writing an ice cream shop business plan? And want to get help with your business plan? Well, here you go. Download our free ice cream parlor business plan pdf now.

This expertly crafted template is designed with ice cream businesses in mind. With a step-by-step guide and example, this template assists you in simplifying your planning process and directs you with each crucial step.

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Whether you are an experienced entrepreneur or a newbie to the business world, our innovative tools and customized business plan templates empower you to write your business plan in minutes.

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Frequently asked questions, what are the key components of an ice cream shop business plan.

Writing a professional business plan for an ice cream shop involves the following key components:

• Executive summary
• Company overview
• Market and industry analysis
• Competitor and customer analysis
• Sample menu for ice creams
• Sales and marketing plan
• Management team
• Operational plan
• Financial projections

Where can I find an ice cream shop business plan template?

There are various online platforms where you can find an ice cream shop business plan template. Consider reputable sources like Upmetrics, which offers 400+ customizable business plan templates for your specific needs.

How long should an ice cream shop business plan be?

Typically, the length of an ideal ice cream shop business plan is around 15-35 pages. It should be clear and concise yet comprehensive, covering all the essential elements of your business. The business plan length can vary based on the audience.

What should I do with my finished ice cream shop business plan?

Once your ice cream shop business plan is finished, use it as a live document. Send it to the potential investors and show your marketing & operational decisions. Regularly revisit and update it as your business grows.

What are some common mistakes made when writing an ice cream shop business plan?

Avoid below 7 common mistakes while writing an ice cream shop business plan:

• Lack of thorough ice cream shop industry and market research
• Overlooking financial projections
• Poor competition analysis
• Neglecting the importance of location
• Lack of differentiation in product offerings and menu
• Ignoring effective marketing strategies
• Avoid prioritizing customer satisfaction

About the Author

Vinay Kevadiya

Vinay Kevadiya is the founder and CEO of Upmetrics, the #1 business planning software. His ultimate goal with Upmetrics is to revolutionize how entrepreneurs create, manage, and execute their business plans. He enjoys sharing his insights on business planning and other relevant topics through his articles and blog posts. Read more

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On-the-Go Scoops: How to Launch Your Mobile Ice Cream Business

Consider the joyful ringing of an ice cream truck passing through a neighborhood on a hot summer day. The sight of children anxiously lining up, parents delighting in nostalgic delicacies, and the intoxicating aroma of freshly churned ice cream elicits smiles and a sense of warmth. If the thought of giving happiness on wheels has piqued your interest and you want to venture into the world of entrepreneurship, launching a mobile ice cream shop could be your ticket for achievement.

To start a mobile ice cream business, you should conduct market research and create a business plan. Obtain necessary permits and licenses. Invest in a quality ice cream truck and stock it with products. Implement a marketing strategy to attract customers and plan efficient routes for operations.

This article will walk you through the exciting process of starting your own mobile ice cream business. So, let’s get into the specifics and see how you may establish a name for yourself in the world of mobile ice cream entrepreneurship.

Table of Contents

Conduct Comprehensive Market Research

A systematic approach based on in-depth market research is required when venturing into the world of ice cream entrepreneurship. This crucial action creates the conditions for growth. It is crucial to examine the dynamics of the neighborhood market, including the level of ice cream demand. Your business plan is built on carefully examining the tastes and proclivities of the neighborhood. Finding out who exactly your target market is can help you customize your goods to suit their tastes and preferences.

Along with this, it’s crucial to conduct thorough research of your rivals. Knowing the environment you’re entering gives you the knowledge you need to carve out a special niche. This requires looking into the ice cream flavors and varieties that have been popular in your area. Finding the most well-liked options ensures a connection with the community while opening the door for creativity.

The importance of identifying your company’s unique selling propositions cannot be overstated. These differentiators can increase the attraction of your brand, whether it’s a commitment to using organic components, a creative flavor infusion, or an inventive presentation. Choosing good sales sites increases exposure and accessibility, whether they be parks, occasions, tourist hubs, or residential clusters.

Create a Well-Structured Business Plan

The next crucial step after having a thorough understanding of the market environment is to create a rigorous business plan that outlines a detailed strategy for your ice cream operation. This paper serves as the compass that guides your ship to the place you want to go. Your company’s objectives, a precise description of your target market, and an astute competitive analysis serve as the book’s cornerstones. 

You can chart your route for your dreams and create a real framework for your growth trajectory by defining your business goals. Carefully defining your target market will enable you to tailor your offers to meet the requirements and preferences of your targeted clients. You may fine-tune your plans for the best differentiation thanks to the competitive analysis, which provides you with a complex insight into your competitors.

Your marketing plans, which describe how you expect to promote your products or services globally, are at the heart of the business plan. The operational plans, which cover logistics, sourcing, and production, offer a useful road map for the regular operation of your business. The financial predictions, which are significant, include your estimates of income, expenses, and profitability over a specific period.

Recognize that your company plan is a powerful tool for obtaining outside finance in addition to acting as a manual for your internal operations. If you provide a thorough, well-organized business plan, investors and lenders are more inclined to support your concept. It strengthens your reputation in their eyes by exemplifying your commitment, forethought, and strategic insight.

Check out this article to learn the things you need to consider when starting a mobile ice cream business.

Obtain Necessary Permits and Licenses

A variety of legal and regulatory requirements must be followed to establish and run a mobile ice cream business. The range of permits and licenses required for your legal operation depends on the geographic setting of your business. Permits from the health department are among these crucial certifications, indicating your dedication to upholding standards for hygiene and food safety.

Along with these, obtaining the necessary company licenses is an important aspect of regulatory compliance. These licenses not only verify the authenticity of your business but also guarantee that you are adhering to all local laws and regulations. Having the proper certificates for food handling is a requirement. These credentials attest to your expertise in maintaining the quality and safety of the items you supply.

Understanding the exact regulations that apply to your region is of utmost importance. Missing out on the necessary permissions and licenses can have serious legal ramifications, damage your reputation, and result in expensive fines. Therefore, careful examination of the laws of the area and careful adherence to them are essential.

Invest in a Quality Ice Cream Truck and Stock

Your ice cream truck is the central component of your mobile ice cream business. This vehicle serving as the representation of your company demands careful thought, with quality, dependability, and functionality converging as the most important factors.

Considerations including storage capacity, refrigeration systems, and ergonomic layout must all be carefully considered during the choosing process. These qualities lay the groundwork for streamlined and effective operations, guaranteeing that the mouthwatering treats you provide reach customers in immaculate condition.

Branding your ice cream truck with the soul of your company is a way to strategically stand out. Through customization, the truck becomes a moving billboard that draws attention in addition to acting as a delivery vehicle. The visual attractiveness, when combined with your branding aspects, has the power to draw clients from a distance and leave a lasting impression of your establishment.

The next creative step is to fill your ice cream truck with a diverse selection of frozen delights after you’ve prepared the canvas. A brilliant move is to create a menu that incorporates both traditional tastes and cutting-edge inventions. This contrast appeals to both traditionalists and risk-takers, covering a wide range of tastes. By offering a variety of tastes, you make sure that each visit is an enjoyable experience, luring them back for more delectable adventures.

Develop an Effective Marketing Strategy

For your mobile ice cream business to succeed, creating an efficient marketing plan is essential. It is essential to have a dual-pronged strategy that combines online and offline channels to build brand recognition and a loyal consumer base.

The potential for reaching a sizable audience online is enormous. Building a strong online presence on social media sites acts as a channel for visibility and engagement. Bright pictures of your enticing ice cream creations can pique interest and create virtual cravings. Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter can be used to exhibit your mouthwatering offers as well as to interact with potential customers and foster a sense of online community.

The offline world complements the internet world with its power. Your exposure within the physical community is increased by distributing eye-catching flyers in key locations, participating in neighborhood events, and forming symbiotic partnerships with other businesses for cross-promotion. These in-person interactions improve brand memory and establish ties that go beyond the boundaries of the internet.

A web of inducements can be used to arrange fulfilling consumer choice and loyalty. Promotional discounts, loyalty plans, and the introduction of limited-edition flavors all pique consumer interest and foster a feeling of exclusivity. These strategies not only increase sales right away but also build a loyal clientele that comes back because of the novelty and comfort your truck offers.

Plan Efficient Routes for Operations

Planning your route carefully is crucial to the growth of your mobile ice cream business. This aspect is a complex dance of factors that work together to produce a symphony of achievement. The core of your route strategy is formed by the interaction of areas with significant foot traffic, nearby events that draw crowds, and the discerning preferences of your target customer group.

It is crucial to comprehend the vibrant center of the areas you have chosen. High foot traffic zones that are frequently crowded with potential customers develop into centers of opportunity. A harmonious convergence can be sparked by combining this awareness with a calendar filled with nearby events. By taking advantage of these events, you may increase your visibility and gain access to crowds that are eager for pleasure.

Understanding your clientele’s erratic taste preferences is also essential. The ebb and flow of the day or the change of the seasons might affect preferences. Evenings may call for richer, more indulgent options, while daytime cravings may lean toward lighter, more energizing options. This dynamic movement necessitates a flexible strategy that adjusts and satisfies the changing cravings.

The skill of maximizing reach is the culmination of the orchestration of various factors. An abundance of advantages result from route planning work, including a consistent stream of customers, increased exposure, and a reputation that goes beyond the chime of the ice cream truck’s tune.

Check out this article to learn more about starting an ice cream shop business.

Prioritize Customer Experience

When navigating the busy world of food businesses, the value of top-notch customer service becomes clear as a transforming force. The ability of your personnel to go beyond simple transactions and create true connections becomes your secret ingredient in this world where flavors and experiences are intertwined. The core of this initiative is the staff’s attitude, skill, and sensitivity to customer needs.

The importance of developing a friendly and knowledgeable team cannot be overstated. Their warmth may break through barriers, and their knowledge can help customers navigate your tantalizing assortment. In addition to selling ice cream, they also represent your company and raise the emotional impact of every engagement.

Every customer interaction can leave an imprint, and those recollections can determine the course of your company. Making an extra effort to customize recommendations based on customer preferences transforms a transactional experience into a personalized one. This piques taste buds’ interest while also establishing a bond that goes beyond the ephemeral pleasure of a frozen dessert.

Growth depends on having a clear channel for feedback. Accepting consumer feedback graciously encourages an improvement-oriented culture and shows your commitment to perfecting the art of delight. Constructive criticism can point up opportunities for innovation and improvement, enabling your offers and services to change in step with changing preferences and standards.

Monitor and Adapt to Trends

Ice cream is a sector of the food industry that is exposed to the winds of change brought on by fluctuating consumer tastes and constantly changing trends. Staying current with innovation becomes a cornerstone of achievement in this environment if you want to succeed. It is crucial to stay informed about new ice cream trends as well as the shifting landscape of dietary preferences.

As dietary tastes change, meeting a range of needs strengthens the appeal of your company. The inclusion of options for people with dietary limitations, such as vegan or lactose-free ice cream, in your menu expands your customer base and demonstrates your flexibility. This welcoming attitude appeals to a wide range of customers, establishing your establishment as a haven for those with various tastes.

Embracing fluidity is essential for ensuring that palates are always titillated. Adding seasonal flavors to your menu not only capitalizes on the draw of novelty but also shows that you have a keen awareness of the cycles of taste. Your products become canvases of culinary inventiveness when you create original works that combine trends and inspiration.

Frequently Asked Questions

What role does market research play in a mobile ice cream business?

Before launching a mobile ice cream business, market research is essential. It assists you in determining your target market, identifying your competitors, and comprehending the regional need for ice cream. Your choices for tastes, prices, locations, and marketing tactics are influenced by this information. Understanding what clients want and adjusting your services to suit their tastes improves your chances of growth and boosts client pleasure.

What licenses and permits are necessary to run a mobile ice cream business?

Depending on where you are, there may be different legal and regulatory requirements to run a mobile ice cream shop. Permits from the health department, business licenses, and possibly food handling certifications are usually required. These make sure that your company adheres to health and safety regulations. To operate properly and prevent any potential legal complications that can emerge from non-compliance, it is crucial to investigate and acquire all required licenses and licenses.

How can I promote my mobile ice cream business effectively?

The growth of your mobile ice cream business depends heavily on marketing. Use a combination of offline and online tactics. Establish a strong online identity by using social media to connect with potential customers and share mouthwatering pictures of your ice cream creations. Participating in neighborhood activities, handing out brochures, and working with complementary businesses are examples of offline strategies. Customers might be attracted and encouraged to return by providing specials, loyalty programs, and seasonal cuisines.

To learn more on how to start your own ice cream or gelato business check out my startup documents here.

The information provided by  IceCreamBusinessBoss.com   (“The Site”) is for general informational purposes only. All information on the Site is provided in good faith, however, we make no representation or warranty of any kind, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, adequacy, validity, reliability, availability, or completeness of any information on the Site. Under no circumstance shall we have any liability to you for any loss or damage of any kind incurred as a result of the use of the Site or Reliance on any information provided on the Site. Your use of the Site and your reliance on any information on the Site is solely at your own risk. This blog post is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult a legal expert to address your specific needs.  Terms and Conditions.

Hi! I am Shawn and I am a happy individual who happens to be an entrepreneur. I have owned several types of businesses in my life from a coffee shop to an import and export business to an online review business plus a few more and now I create online ice cream/gelato business resources for those interested in starting new ventures. It’s demanding work but I love it. I do it for those passionate about their business and their goals. That’s why when I meet a ice cream/gelato business owner, I see myself. I know how hard the struggle is to retain clients, find good employees and keep the business growing all while trying to stay competitive.

That’s why I created Ice Cream Business Boss: I want to help ice cream and gelato business owners like you build a thriving business that brings you endless joy and supports your ideal lifestyle.

Ice Cream Shop Business Plan PDF Example

• February 28, 2024
• Business Plan

Creating a comprehensive business plan is crucial for launching and running a successful ice cream shop. This plan serves as your roadmap, detailing your vision, operational strategies, and financial plan. It helps establish your ice cream shop’s identity, navigate the competitive market, and secure funding for growth.

This article not only breaks down the critical components of an ice cream shop business plan, but also provides an example of a business plan to help you craft your own.

Whether you’re an experienced entrepreneur or new to the food&beverage industry, this guide, complete with a business plan example, lays the groundwork for turning your ice cream shop concept into reality. Let’s dive in!

Our ice cream shop business plan is tailored to cover all essential aspects for a well-rounded strategy. It details the shop’s operations, marketing initiatives, market environment, competitors, leadership structure, and financial projections.

• Executive Summary : A quick overview of your Ice Cream Shop’s idea, market potential, the team behind it, and financial strategy.
• Ice Cream Shop & Location: Describes the shop’s design and prime location for attracting ice cream lovers.
• Supply & Operations: Explains the supply chain, ice cream-making process, and day-to-day operations.
• Key Stats: Presents the size and growth of the ice cream market.
• Key Trends: Points out trends like artisanal flavors and health-conscious options.
• Key Competitors : Identifies competitors and what makes your shop unique.
• SWOT: Brief strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats analysis.
• Marketing Plan : Short strategies for getting and keeping customers.
• Timeline : Major milestones from start-up to the first year’s end.
• Management: Gives info on the team running the shop and their responsibilities.
• Financial Plan: Forecasts finances over 5 years, covering income, expenses, and profits.

Ice Cream Shop Business Plan

Fully editable 30+ slides Powerpoint presentation business plan template.

Download an expert-built 30+ slides Powerpoint business plan template

Executive Summary

The Executive Summary introduces your ice cream shop’s business plan, providing a succinct overview of your shop and its offerings. It should describe your market positioning, the variety of ice cream flavors and related products you offer, its location, size, and a summary of daily operations. 

This section should also discuss how your ice cream shop will fit into the local community, including the number of direct competitors in the vicinity, identifying who they are, along with your shop’s unique selling points that set it apart from these competitors. 

Additionally, it should include information about the management and co-founding team, outlining their roles and contributions to the shop’s success. Furthermore, a summary of your financial projections, including revenue and profits over the next five years, should be included here to offer a comprehensive view of your ice cream shop’s financial strategy.

Make sure to cover here _ Business Overview _ Market Overview _ Management Team _ Financial Plan

Dive deeper into Executive Summary

Business Overview

For an Ice Cream Shop, the Business Overview section can be succinctly divided into 2 main parts:

Ice Cream Shop & Location

Briefly describe the ice cream shop’s physical setting, emphasizing its design, ambiance, and the welcoming atmosphere it creates for customers. Mention the shop’s location, highlighting its accessibility and convenience for customers, such as its proximity to popular community spots or ease of parking. Explain why this location is beneficial for attracting your target clientele.

Supply & Operations

Detail the variety of ice cream flavors and related products offered, from classic favorites to unique, artisanal creations. Outline your sourcing strategy, ensuring it reflects a commitment to quality and, where possible, local sourcing.

Explain your operations, including how ice cream is stored, served, and the measures in place to maintain the highest standards of hygiene and customer satisfaction. Highlight any special offerings, seasonal flavors, or loyalty programs that provide added value to your customers, encouraging repeat visits and customer loyalty.

Make sure to cover here _ Ice Cream Shop & Location _ Supply & Operations

Market Overview

Industry size & growth.

In the Market Overview of your ice cream shop business plan, start by examining the size of the ice cream industry and its growth potential. This analysis is crucial for understanding the market’s breadth and identifying opportunities for expansion.

Key market trends

Proceed to discuss recent market trends , such as the increasing consumer interest in artisanal and gourmet ice cream, the demand for a wide range of flavors including exotic and locally inspired ones, and the growing popularity of health-conscious options like dairy-free and low-sugar ice creams.

For example, highlight the trend towards customization and personalization in ice cream servings, as well as the incorporation of organic and sustainable ingredients.

Key competitors

Then, evaluate the competitive landscape, which includes a variety of ice cream shops from high-end artisanal boutiques to budget-friendly chains, as well as the presence of supermarket ice cream brands and mobile ice cream vendors.

For example, emphasize what makes your ice cream shop stand out, whether it’s through exceptional customer experiences, a unique and diverse flavor selection, or a commitment to sustainability and community involvement.

Make sure to cover here _ Industry size & growth _ Key market trends _ Key competitors

Dive deeper into Key competitors

First, conduct a SWOT analysis for the ice cream shop , highlighting Strengths (such as unique flavor offerings and a prime location), Weaknesses (including seasonal fluctuations in demand or limited indoor seating), Opportunities (for example, a growing interest in artisanal and gourmet ice cream), and Threats (such as new competitors entering the market or changes in health trends that may impact ice cream consumption).

Marketing Plan

Next, develop a marketing strategy that outlines how to attract and retain customers through innovative flavor launches, special promotions, an engaging online presence, and participation in local events and festivals.

Finally, create a detailed timeline that outlines key milestones for the ice cream shop’s opening, marketing initiatives, customer base development, and potential expansion plans, ensuring the business progresses with clear goals and strategic direction.

Make sure to cover here _ SWOT _ Marketing Plan _ Timeline

Dive deeper into SWOT

Dive deeper into Marketing Plan

The Management section focuses on the ice cream shop’s management and their direct roles in daily operations and strategic direction. This part is crucial for understanding who is responsible for making key decisions and driving the ice cream shop towards its financial and operational goals.

For your ice cream shop business plan, list the core team members, their specific responsibilities, and how their expertise supports the business.

Financial Plan

The Financial Plan section is a comprehensive analysis of your financial projections for revenue, expenses, and profitability. It lays out your ice cream shop’s approach to securing funding, managing cash flow, and achieving breakeven.

This section typically includes detailed forecasts for the first 5 years of operation, highlighting expected revenue, operating costs and capital expenditures.

For your ice cream shop business plan, provide a snapshot of your financial statement (profit and loss, balance sheet, cash flow statement), as well as your key assumptions (e.g. number of customers and prices, expenses, etc.).

Make sure to cover here _ Profit and Loss _ Cash Flow Statement _ Balance Sheet _ Use of Funds

Privacy Overview

Small Business Trends

How to start an ice cream truck business.

We all “scream for ice cream” and you’ll shriek at the profit potential in a mobile ice cream business.

Operating an ice cream truck business is one of the most popular food truck ideas. How to run the business is your choice – as a route or by attending events. You can also choose the days you operate, and whether or not you want to operate as a seasonal business.

For more information about ice cream trucks, and to keep track of industry trends, check out the International Association of Ice Cream Distributors and Vendors . And keep track of this development – Nissan unveiled a prototype all-electric ice cream truck with rooftop solar panels in 2016, and since 2019 they’ve been on the road in the UK.

Why You Should Start an Ice Cream Truck Business

• You love ice cream
• You have childhood memories of a neighborhood truck and want to continue the tradition
• You love children
• You want to be independent and own your own business

How to Start an Ice Cream Truck Business with These Simple Steps

Entrepreneurs and food trucks are a great match.

Before you launch your ice cream truck business, work your way through these steps:

Research Nearby Ice Cream Truck Businesses

You should research these businesses as competitors. And you should research how they do business. Find out what products they sell and what’s been most popular. You can get those answers by reading through their websites and social media pages.

Find Suppliers

The proximity of suppliers may impact what type of frozen treat you sell. Ice cream trucks are typically large, heavy diesel-fuel trucks. In other words, you want to make trips to resupply as infrequently as possible or find a supplier who will deliver. You’ll want to set up storage freezers in your home or headquarters and resupply them as needed.

Need to know: An ice cream truck is plugged into a power source overnight. On a full charge, the truck will keep the ice cream frozen for 10-12 hours at 90 degrees. In other words, you don’t want your suppliers to be too far away.

Write an Ice Cream Truck Business Plan

What’s your target market? Are you going to run various set routes, or are you going to focus on attending events? Or a mix of both? As part of your business plan, you’ll need a name. You’ll also need to estimate a budget, which will include a calculation of other expenses, including the cost of restocking, any labor costs, and the cost to purchase and maintain the truck. Without a well-written business plan, it’s unlikely for owners to get business loans.

Establish Menus, Choose Flavors, and Set Prices

There are all sorts of tasty ice cream products. Products include hard ice cream and soft-serve ice cream, ice cream sandwiches, sundaes, pre-packaged ice cream, low-calorie ice creams, many different ice cream flavors, and other ice cream novelties – even ice cream for pets. Before you buy ice cream for your truck business, check what other ice cream vendors are selling.

Form a Business Entity and Register Your Business

Your business name is very important. When you check with your Department of State, you may find that your name is already taken. You may also find that someone else has already claimed the web domain. Take your time with this step, and use friends and family to brainstorm a business name. The majority of ice cream truck business owners choose the Limited Liability Company LLC as the business entity.

Open a Business Bank Account

Open a business bank account and obtain a business credit card.

The majority of food truck vendors have switched to a contactless point of sale system, although you may still need a cash box.

Find an Ice Cream Truck

Don’t scrimp on the truck. If ice cream melts or reaches room temperature, you must discard it. Most ice cream trucks are outfitted with a deep cell battery, which is designed to be frequently drained and recharged. And the trucks will have cold plate freezers, an ice cream dipping cabinet, and soft serve machines. It’s a lot to keep cold.

If you’re buying a used ice cream truck, have it thoroughly vetted. Whether you have a used or a new ice cream truck, make regular preventative truck maintenance a part of each day.

Purchase Your Ice Cream Truck Equipment

If the truck isn’t already outfitted, you’ll need the cold plate freezers, the ice cream dipping cabinet, and a soft-serve machine. You’ll also need related supplies such as ice cream cones, napkins, and serving containers.

Apply for Permits and Licenses Needed for Ice Cream Trucks

Start at the state level and work your way down through the county clerk’s office and local officials. Ice cream truck drivers may need special licensing and registration for their motor vehicles, depending on the vehicle’s weight.

Although it’s a mobile business, you’ll need a business license.

Get Insured

Small business owners with a truck business need general business insurance which would include general liability insurance and commercial auto insurance. Although the manufacturers of ice cream would have product liability insurance, you’ll need that as well – because you may be mixing the ice cream with toppings and dips to create a different product.

Prepare for a Health Inspection

Each person who handles food needs Food Handling Certification. Make sure you have those records handy for the inspection by the local health department.

The inspector from your local Department of Health will also want to see a schedule for cleaning and maintenance, as well as that proper steps are taken to prevent food contamination.

Get Your Taxes in Order

Since you’re selling a product, you’ll need to collect and report sales tax. For that, you’ll need an Employer Identification Number (EIN).

Plan an Ice Cream Truck Route

If you develop the right routes, your potential customers will become repeat customers. One of the best ways to do this is by using an App. Customers can use the App to see where you are, and when you will arrive in their neighborhood.

Consider Employing Staff

Whether to employ staff or not is a major factor in how you run the business. You should choose workers who have strong customer service skills.

You may only need staff for the summer season, or year-round, depending on the climate where you operate. If you have staff, you’ll need to obtain Workers Compensation Insurance.

Market Your Business

Are you going to offer new ice cream flavors? Make an announcement on social media accounts. Reward repeat customers by offering free ice cream after a set number of purchases. If you don’t have marketing knowledge, encourage customers to offer input.

Expand Your Ice Cream Truck Business

If a route isn’t successful, don’t be afraid to revamp it. Attend events such as festivals. Ask customers for input.

Some ice cream truck vendors study school bus routes – which are good indicators of where children live.

How Much Does it Cost to Start an Ice Cream Truck Business?

The biggest number for the start-up costs of selling ice cream is the truck. You can expect to spend at least $10,000 for the truck.

Related ice cream truck costs include fuel, oil, tires, insurance ($800 to $1500 annually), and stocking the ice cream (a minimum of $500). Business insurance will cost from $500 to $1200 annually. With a well-written business plan, you may be able to get a business loan.

Is it Profitable to Start an Ice Cream Truck Business?

Yes. During peak times, the average monthly income is $5,000, and that’s calculated based on working 20 days. Average yearly profits are $60,000.

Image: Depositphotos

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Ice Cream Shop Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Ice Cream Shop Business Plan

Over the past 20+ years, we have helped over 10,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans to start and grow their ice cream shop businesses. On this page, we will first give you some background information with regards to the importance of business planning. We will then go through an ice cream shop business plan template step-by-step so you can create your plan today.

Download our Ultimate Business Plan Template here >

What is an Ice Cream Shop Business Plan?

A business plan provides a snapshot of your ice cream shop business as it stands today, and lays out your growth plan for the next five years. It explains your business goals and your strategy for reaching them. It also includes market research to support your plans.

Why You Need a Business Plan for an Ice Cream Shop

If you’re looking to start an ice cream shop business, or grow your existing ice cream shop business, you need a business plan. A business plan will help you raise funding, if needed, and plan out the growth of your ice cream shop business in order to improve your chances of success. Your ice cream shop business plan is a living document that should be updated annually as your company grows and changes.

Funding Sources for Ice Cream Shop Businesses

With regards to funding, the main sources of funding for an ice cream shop business are personal savings, credit cards, bank loans and angel investors. With regards to bank loans, banks will want to review your business plan and gain confidence that you will be able to repay your loan and interest. To acquire this confidence, the loan officer will not only want to confirm that your financials are reasonable, but they will also want to see a professional plan. Such a plan will give them the confidence that you can successfully and professionally operate a business.

The second most common form of funding for an ice cream shop business is angel investors. Angel investors are wealthy individuals who will write you a check. They will either take equity in return for their funding, or, like a bank, they will give you a loan.

Finish Your Business Plan Today!

If you want to start an ice cream shop business or expand your current one, you need a business plan. Below are links to each section of your ice cream shop business plan template:

Executive Summary

Your executive summary provides an introduction to your business plan, but it is normally the last section you write because it provides a summary of each key section of your plan.

The goal of your Executive Summary is to quickly engage the reader. Explain to them the type of ice cream shop business you are operating and the status. For example, are you a startup, do you have an ice cream shop business that you would like to grow, or are you operating a chain of ice cream shop businesses?

Next, provide an overview of each of the subsequent sections of your plan. For example, give a brief overview of the ice cream shop industry. Discuss the type of ice cream shop business you are operating. Detail your direct competitors. Give an overview of your target customers. Provide a snapshot of your marketing plan. Identify the key members of your team. And offer an overview of your financial plan.  

Company Analysis

In your company analysis, you will detail the type of ice cream shop business you are operating.

For example, you might operate one of the following types of ice cream shop businesses:

• Self serve ice cream shop : this type of ice cream shop business allows customers to fill their own containers with desired ice cream flavors and toppings.
• Ice cream truck: ice cream trucks are a convenient way to reach more customers in different areas.
• Gourmet ice cream shop: this type of ice cream shop caters to customers seeking gourmet flavors and a high-quality experience.

In addition to explaining the type of ice cream shop business you will operate, the Company Analysis section of your business plan needs to provide background on the business.

Include answers to question such as:

• When and why did you start the business?
• What milestones have you achieved to date? Milestones could include the number of customers served, number of positive reviews, amount of monthly revenue etc.
• Your legal structure. Are you incorporated as an S-Corp? An LLC? A sole proprietorship? Explain your legal structure here.

Industry Analysis

In your industry analysis, you need to provide an overview of the ice cream shop.

While this may seem unnecessary, it serves multiple purposes.

First, researching the ice cream shop industry educates you. It helps you understand the market in which you are operating. 

Secondly, market research can improve your strategy, particularly if your research identifies market trends.

The third reason for market research is to prove to readers that you are an expert in your industry. By conducting the research and presenting it in your plan, you achieve just that.

The following questions should be answered in the industry analysis section of your ice cream shop business plan:

• How big is the ice cream shop industry (in dollars)?
• Is the market declining or increasing?
• Who are the key competitors in the market?
• Who are the key suppliers in the market?
• What trends are affecting the industry?
• What is the industry’s growth forecast over the next 5 – 10 years?
• What is the relevant market size? That is, how big is the potential market for your ice cream shop business? You can extrapolate such a figure by assessing the size of the market in the entire country and then applying that figure to your local population.

Customer Analysis

The customer analysis section of your ice cream shop business plan must detail the customers you serve and/or expect to serve.

The following are examples of customer segments: children, parents, teenagers, and restaurateurs.

As you can imagine, the customer segment(s) you choose will have a great impact on the type of ice cream shop you operate. Clearly, parents would want different service options and would respond to different marketing promotions than teenagers, for example.

Try to break out your target customers in terms of their demographic and psychographic profiles. With regards to demographics, include a discussion of the ages, genders, locations and income levels of the customers you seek to serve. Because most ice cream shops primarily serve customers living in their same city or town, such demographic information is easy to find on government websites.

Psychographic profiles explain the wants and needs of your target customers. The more you can understand and define these needs, the better you will do in attracting and retaining your customers.

With Growthink’s Ultimate Business Plan Template you can finish your plan in just 8 hours or less!

Competitive Analysis

Your competitive analysis should identify the indirect and direct competitors your business faces and then focus on the latter.

Direct competitors are other ice cream shops. 

Indirect competitors are other options that customers have to purchase from that aren’t direct competitors. This includes grocery shops, convenience stores, and ice cream vending machines or kiosks. You need to mention such competition to show you understand that not everyone who wants ice cream will go to an ice cream shop.

With regards to direct competition, you want to describe the other ice cream shop businesses with which you compete. Most likely, your direct competitors will be ice cream shops located very close to your location.

For each such competitor, provide an overview of their businesses and document their strengths and weaknesses. Unless you once worked at your competitors’ businesses, it will be impossible to know everything about them. But you should be able to find out key things about them such as:

• What types of customers do they serve?
• What types of flavors do they offer?
• What is their pricing (premium, low, etc.)?
• What are they good at?
• What are their weaknesses?

With regards to the last two questions, think about your answers from the customers’ perspective. And don’t be afraid to ask your competitors’ customers what they like most and least about them.

The final part of your competitive analysis section is to document your areas of competitive advantage. For example:

• Will you provide more ice cream flavors?
• Will you provide services that your competitors don’t offer?
• Will you provide better customer service?
• Will you offer better pricing?

Think about ways you will outperform your competition and document them in this section of your plan.  

Marketing Plan

Traditionally, a marketing plan includes the four P’s: Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. For a ice cream shop business plan, your marketing plan should include the following:

Product : In the product section, you should reiterate the type of ice cream shop that you documented in your Company Analysis. Then, detail the specific products you will be offering. For example, in addition to ice cream, will you provide comfortable seating, table service, or on-site entertainment?

Price : Document the prices you will offer and how they compare to your competitors. Essentially in the product and price sub-sections of your marketing plan, you are presenting the services you offer and their prices.

Place : Place refers to the location of your ice cream shop. Document your location and mention how the location will impact your success. For example, is your ice cream shop located in a busy retail district, shopping plaza, mall, etc. Discuss how your location might provide a steady stream of customers. 

Promotions : The final part of your ice cream shop marketing plan is the promotions section. Here you will document how you will drive customers to your location(s). The following are some promotional methods you might consider:

• Advertising in local papers and magazines
• Reaching out to local websites 
• Social media marketing
• Local radio advertising

Operations Plan

While the earlier sections of your business plan explained your goals, your operations plan describes how you will meet them. Your operations plan should have two distinct sections as follows.

Everyday short-term processes include all of the tasks involved in running your ice cream shop, including making ice cream, serving customers, and maintaining equipment.

Long-term goals are the milestones you hope to achieve. These could include the dates when you expect to serve your 1000th customer, or when you hope to reach $X in revenue. It could also be when you expect to open a new ice cream shop location or launch an ice cream shop franchise.  

Management Team

To demonstrate your ice cream shop business’ ability to succeed, a strong management team is essential. Highlight your key players’ backgrounds, emphasizing those skills and experiences that prove their ability to grow a company. 

Ideally you and/or your team members have direct experience in managing ice cream shop businesses. If so, highlight this experience and expertise. But also highlight any experience that you think will help your business succeed.

If your team is lacking, consider assembling an advisory board. An advisory board would include 2 to 8 individuals who would act like mentors to your business. They would help answer questions and provide strategic guidance. If needed, look for advisory board members with experience in managing ice cream shops or successfully running small businesses.  

Financial Plan

Your financial plan should include your 5-year financial statement broken out both monthly or quarterly for the first year and then annually. Your financial statements include your income statement, balance sheet and cash flow statements.

Income Statement : an income statement is more commonly called a Profit and Loss statement or P&L. It shows your revenues and then subtracts your costs to show whether you turned a profit or not.

In developing your income statement, you need to devise assumptions. For example, will you serve 500 customers per month or 1,000? And will sales grow by 2% or 10% per year? As you can imagine, your choice of assumptions will greatly impact the financial forecasts for your business. As much as possible, conduct research to try to root your assumptions in reality.

Balance Sheets : Balance sheets show your assets and liabilities. While balance sheets can include much information, try to simplify them to the key items you need to know about. For instance, if you spend $50,000 on building out your ice cream shop, this will not give you immediate profits. Rather it is an asset that will hopefully help you generate profits for years to come. Likewise, if a bank writes you a check for $50,000, you don’t need to pay it back immediately. Rather, that is a liability you will pay back over time.

Cash Flow Statement : Your cash flow statement will help determine how much money you need to start or grow your business, and make sure you never run out of money. What most entrepreneurs and business owners don’t realize is that you can turn a profit but run out of money and go bankrupt. For example, let’s say a local restaurant owner approached you with a $25,000 contract to provide ice cream for their restaurant. Let’s further assume the contract would cost you $25,000 to fulfill in terms of increased staffing costs and supplies. Well, in most cases, you would have to pay that $25,000 now for employee salaries, equipment, etc. But let’s say the company didn’t pay you for 180 days. During that 180-day period, you could run out of money.

In developing your Income Statement and Balance Sheets be sure to include several of the key costs needed in starting or growing a ice cream shop business:

• Location build-out including design fees, construction, etc.
• Cost of equipment like dipping cabinets, walk-in refrigerators, and blenders
• Payroll or salaries paid to staff
• Business insurance
• Taxes and permits
• Legal expenses

Attach your full financial projections in the appendix of your plan along with any supporting documents that make your plan more compelling. For example, you might include your location lease or a blueprint of your shop.   Summary Putting together a business plan for your ice cream shop is a worthwhile endeavor. If you follow the template above, by the time you are done, you will truly be an expert. You will really understand the ice cream shop industry, your competition, and your customers. You will have developed a marketing plan and will really understand what it takes to launch and grow a successful ice cream shop.

Ice Cream Shop Business Plan FAQs

What is the easiest way to complete my ice cream shop business plan.

Growthink's Ultimate Business Plan Template allows you to quickly and easily complete your Ice Cream Shop Business Plan.

Where Can I Download an Ice Cream Business Plan PDF?

You can download our ice cream business plan PDF here.

What is the Goal of a Business Plan's Executive Summary?

The goal of your Executive Summary is to quickly engage the reader. Explain to them the type of ice cream shop you are operating and the status; for example, are you a startup, do you have an ice cream shop that you would like to grow, or are you operating a chain of ice cream shops?

  OR, Let Us Develop Your Plan For You Since 1999, Growthink has developed business plans for thousands of companies who have gone on to achieve tremendous success.

Click here to see how Growthink’s professional business plan consulting services can create your business plan for you.  

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Ice Cream Business

Back to All Business Ideas

How to Start an Ice Cream Business

Written by: Esther Strauss

Esther is a business strategist with over 20 years of experience as an entrepreneur, executive, educator, and management advisor.

Edited by: David Lepeska

David has been writing and learning about business, finance and globalization for a quarter-century, starting with a small New York consulting firm in the 1990s.

Published on April 25, 2021 Updated on May 15, 2024

Investment range

$34,550 - $79,100

Revenue potential

$80,000 - $260,000 p.a.

Time to build

Profit potential

$30,000 - $65,000 p.a

Industry trend

Americans love ice cream — consuming 23 pounds per person each year — and that’s not going to change anytime soon. As a result, opening an ice cream shop is a smart business move, especially if it’s something you’re already passionate about. 

Of course, starting a business takes hard work and considerable know-how. Thankfully you’ve come to the right place, as this step-by-step guide will walk you through the launch and development process all the way to scooping out that first cone!

Looking to register your business? A limited liability company (LLC) is the best legal structure for new businesses because it is fast and simple.

Form your business immediately using ZenBusiness LLC formation service or hire one of the Best LLC Services .

Step 1: Decide if the Business Is Right for You

Before you start your ice cream business, you should look at the industry as a whole to help you identify the right opportunity. 

Pros and cons

Before moving forward with your ice cream business, let’s look at the pros and cons, so you know what to expect. 

• Unleash your creativity by offering unique flavors
• Profit margins are good
• Learning ice cream making is simple
• Build your own brand
• Food businesses are strictly regulated
• Need to offer a quality product to stand out
• Seasonality affects sales

Ice cream industry trends

Consumers still scream for ice cream, but they are also becoming more health-conscious about their choices. 

A look at Google Trends reveals a clear seasonality to ice cream interest. You can see this demonstrated over the last five years.(( https://trends.google.com/trends/explore?date=today%205-y&geo=US&q=ice%20cream%20US )) 

Industry size and growth

• Industry size and past growth – Ice cream production in the US is estimated to be worth $9 billion, after growing 2% annually over the last five years.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/market-size/ice-cream-production-united-states/ )) 
• Growth forecast – The global ice cream market is projected to grow around 5% annually through 2028(( https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/ice-cream-market-104847 )) while market analyst Mordor Intelligence expects the North American ice cream market to grow steadily through 2026.(( https://www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/north-america-ice-cream-market ))
• Number of businesses – There are more than 700 ice cream production companies in the US.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/number-of-businesses/ice-cream-production-united-states/ ))
• Number of people employed – The industry employs almost 22,000 people.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/employment/ice-cream-production-united-states/ ))

Trends and challenges

The latest trends in the ice cream industry include:

• Health-conscious consumers prefer natural flavors, low-fat, and handcrafted ice creams made with organic local ingredients.
• Other hot ice cream trends include savory and dairy-free products, functional benefits such as protein- or CBD-loaded ice cream, and sophisticated flavor profiles like turmeric-infused honey with candied ginger.

Some challenges faced by the industry are:

• Tough competition
• Keeping costs down

How much does it cost to start an ice cream business?

The investment needed for your ice cream business will depend on the type you choose, among other factors such as equipment. To open an ice cream shop, you will likely need between $40,000 and $100,000, with the average cost being $80,000. A large-scale manufacturing operation will likely need much more than this, while you could probably start a home-based online ice cream shop for as little as $15,000. 

Here’s a cost breakdown example for an artisanal ice cream shop, excluding the cost of the shop: 

How much can you earn from an ice cream business?

Artisanal ice cream costs about $10/pint in the US, more expensive than the regular ice cream.

In your first year or two, you could make artisanal ice cream from home and sell 150 pints a week, bringing in nearly $80,000 in annual revenue. This would mean over $30,000 in profit, assuming a 40% margin. As your brand gains recognition, sales could climb to 500 pints a week. At this stage, you’d rent a commercial space and hire staff, reducing your profit margin to around 25%. With annual revenue of $260,000, you’d make a tidy profit of $65,000.

On the other hand, Cold Stone Creamery franchisees average $415,000 in annual sales. That said, 42% of stores were at or above this level and the rest, of course, were below. While this is for an ice cream franchise, an ice cream manufacturing business will generate much more in gross sales and have smaller profit margins. 

What barriers to entry are there?

Now before you start dreaming about your potential $400,000+ in annual sales, there are some barriers to consider: 

• Shelf space in a supermarket or convenience store
• Cold climates
• Food licensing laws
• Local competition

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Step 2: hone your idea.

Now it’s time for the exciting part, clarifying your idea!

Market research will give you the upper hand, even if you’re already positive that you have a perfect product or service. Conducting market research is important, because it can help you understand your customers better, who your competitors are, and your business landscape.

Let’s dive into choosing your niche first. 

Why? Identify an opportunity

It’s important to become familiar with your competition. Knowing as much as you can about them will help you differentiate your company and create a more valuable product. 

Your competition will vary depending on the business model you choose. For example, an ice cream shop will only have local competition. In contrast, ice cream manufacturing will put you in a much bigger pool of competitors with names such as Ben & Jerry’s and Haagen-Dazs. 

Here are some questions to ask about your competition: 

• What products do they offer?
• Why do consumers buy their products? 
• Who is their target market? 
• What is their unique selling point?

What? Define your ice cream business focus

There are three main types of ice cream businesses: impulse ice cream, take-home ice cream, and artisanal ice cream.

• Impulse ice cream products are single serving sizes — think of ice cream pops and ice cream sandwiches — typically sold in gas stations and convenience stores. Depending on your manufacturing capacity, you could target large chains or stick with locally owned stores. 
• Take-home ice creams are the kind you buy in supermarkets, like Edy’s or Ben & Jerry’s. These are often sold in larger buckets and require significant manufacturing capacity. While a business can offer both impulse and take-home ice cream, in the beginning it’s best to choose a specialization. 
• Artisanal ice cream is generally made in small batches with high-quality ingredients and uncommon flavors, such as raspberry cheesecake or salted caramel fudge. If you want to make artisanal ice cream, you will either need your own ice cream shop or a top-notch website, in order to be able to sell directly to the public. 

Choosing one of these is crucial for setting up your business the right way. Because if you try to do everything at once, you’ll likely burn out.

Which type appeals to you the most? Do you want to create a nationwide brand that your customers recognize in the supermarket? Or are you more inclined to open a local ice cream parlor where you can experiment with flavors and create a unique experience for your customers? 

Use these answers to determine what your next steps will be. 

How much should you charge for your ice cream?

How much you charge will depend on the ingredients you use, operating costs, location, and your target customer. For example, artisanal ice cream maker Salt & Straw charges around $5 for a single scoop and $10 for a pint. On the other hand, franchises like Baskin-Robbins charge around $5 for a pint. 

To find the right prices, you’ll need to estimate your cost of goods sold and add on a healthy profit margin to make your time worth it. Then, compare these prices to your competition to see if they’re viable. 

Once you know your costs, you can use this Step By Step profit margin calculator to determine your mark-up and final price points. Remember, the prices you use at launch should be subject to change if warranted by the market.

Who? Identify your target market

Next, you’ll need to define your target market based on who your best customers could be.

Here are some questions you should ask yourself: 

• How old are my ideal customers?
• How much money do they earn? 
• Who do I want to resonate with my brand?
• Which customers will benefit from my product?

Once you have your answers, you’ll be able to narrow down your ideal customer and tailor your brand toward them.

Where? Choose your business premises

If you want to get into ice cream manufacturing, location is not terribly important. As long as you have access to quality ingredients, reliable transport and ample space, you’ll be good to go. 

On the other hand, if you want to open an ice cream shop, then location is crucial. You’ll want a location with lots of foot traffic or traffic with higher conversions, such as by the beach. 

If your area has cold winters, then you could find a location that matches that seasonality, like near a park. In summer and spring, you’ll likely have a lot of foot traffic, and when the traffic slows down in winter, you may be able to negotiate lower rents with the lessor.

You can find commercial space to rent in your area on sites such as Craigslist , Crexi , and Instant Offices .

When choosing a commercial space, you may want to follow these rules of thumb:

• Central location accessible via public transport
• Ventilated and spacious, with good natural light
• Flexible lease that can be extended as your business grows
• Ready-to-use space with no major renovations or repairs needed

Step 3: Brainstorm an Ice Cream Shop Name

Here are some ideas for brainstorming your business name:

• Short, unique, and catchy names tend to stand out
• Names that are easy to say and spell tend to do better 
• Name should be relevant to your product or service offerings
• Ask around — family, friends, colleagues, social media — for suggestions
• Including keywords, such as “ice cream” or “dessert”, boosts SEO
• Name should allow for expansion, for ex: “Sweet Scoops Ice Cream” over “Vegan Scoops” or “Sugar-Free Ice Cream Treats”
• A location-based name can help establish a strong connection with your local community and help with the SEO but might hinder future expansion

Once you’ve got a list of potential names, visit the website of the US Patent and Trademark Office to make sure they are available for registration and check the availability of related domain names using our Domain Name Search tool. Using “.com” or “.org” sharply increases credibility, so it’s best to focus on these. 

Find a Domain

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Finally, make your choice among the names that pass this screening and go ahead with domain registration and social media account creation. Your business name is one of the key differentiators that set your business apart. Once you pick your company name, and start with the branding, it is hard to change the business name. Therefore, it’s important to carefully consider your choice before you start a business entity.

Step 4: Create an Ice Cream Shop Business Plan

Here are the key components of a business plan:

• Executive Summary: Present an overview of your ice cream business, highlighting its dedication to offering a variety of high-quality, unique ice cream flavors and desserts in a welcoming environment.
• Business Overview: Describe your business’s focus on producing and selling ice cream, including classic flavors, seasonal specialties, and innovative dessert options.
• Product and Services: Detail the range of products offered, such as hand-scooped ice cream, sundaes, milkshakes, and vegan or allergy-friendly options.
• Market Analysis: Assess the demand for ice cream products, considering factors like local demographics, seasonal trends, and consumer preferences in desserts.
• Competitive Analysis: Compare your ice cream offerings and store experience to other local dessert shops or ice cream parlors, focusing on your unique flavors or customer service.
• Sales and Marketing: Outline your strategy for attracting customers, using tactics like social media marketing, local events participation, or loyalty programs.
• Management Team: Highlight the experience and qualifications of your team, particularly in areas like food production, retail management, and customer service.
• Operations Plan: Describe the operational aspects of your ice cream business, including production, inventory management, and storefront operations.
• Financial Plan: Provide an overview of financial aspects, covering startup costs, pricing strategy, and expected revenue.
• Appendix: Include supplementary documents such as flavor menus, supplier agreements, or detailed market research to support your business plan.

If you’ve never created a business plan, it can be an intimidating task. You might consider hiring a business plan specialist to create a top-notch business plan for you.

Step 5: Register Your Business

Registering your business is an absolutely crucial step — it’s the prerequisite to paying taxes, raising capital, opening a bank account, and other guideposts on the road to getting a business up and running.

Plus, registration is exciting because it makes the entire process official. Once it’s complete, you’ll have your own business! 

Choose where to register your company

Your business location is important because it can affect taxes, legal requirements, and revenue. Most people will register their business in the state where they live, but if you are planning to expand, you might consider looking elsewhere, as some states could offer real advantages when it comes to ice cream. 

If you’re willing to move, you could really maximize your business! Keep in mind, it’s relatively easy to transfer your business to another state.

Choose your business structure

Business entities come in several varieties, each with its pros and cons. The legal structure you choose for your ice cream business will shape your taxes, personal liability, and business registration requirements, so choose wisely. 

Here are the main options:

• Sole Proprietorship – The most common structure for small businesses makes no legal distinction between company and owner. All income goes to the owner, who’s also liable for any debts, losses, or liabilities incurred by the business. The owner pays taxes on business income on his or her personal tax return.
• General Partnership – Similar to a sole proprietorship, but for two or more people. Again, owners keep the profits and are liable for losses. The partners pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.
• Limited Liability Company (LLC) – Combines the characteristics of corporations with those of sole proprietorships or partnerships. Again, the owners are not personally liable for debts.
• C Corp – Under this structure, the business is a distinct legal entity and the owner or owners are not personally liable for its debts. Owners take profits through shareholder dividends, rather than directly. The corporation pays taxes, and owners pay taxes on their dividends, which is sometimes referred to as double taxation.
• S Corp – An S-Corporation refers to the tax classification of the business but is not a business entity. An S-Corp can be either a corporation or an LLC , which just needs to elect to be an S-Corp for tax status. In an S-Corp, income is passed through directly to shareholders, who pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.

We recommend that new business owners choose LLC as it offers liability protection and pass-through taxation while being simpler to form than a corporation. You can form an LLC in as little as five minutes using an online LLC formation service. They will check that your business name is available before filing, submit your articles of organization , and answer any questions you might have. 

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Choose Your State

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Step 6: Register for Taxes

The final step before you’re able to pay taxes is getting an Employer Identification Number , or EIN. You can file for your EIN online or by mail or fax: visit the IRS website to learn more. Keep in mind, if you’ve chosen to be a sole proprietorship you can simply use your social security number as your EIN. 

Once you have your EIN, you’ll need to choose your tax year. Financially speaking, your business will operate in a calendar year (January–December) or a fiscal year, a 12-month period that can start in any month. This will determine your tax cycle, while your business structure will determine which taxes you’ll pay.

The IRS website also offers a tax-payers checklist , and taxes can be filed online.

It is important to consult an accountant or other professional to help you with your taxes to ensure you are completing them correctly.

Step 7: Fund your Business

Securing financing is your next step and there are plenty of ways to raise capital:

• Bank loans : This is the most common method, but getting approved requires a rock-solid business plan and strong credit history.
• SBA-guaranteed loans : The Small Business Administration can act as guarantor, helping gain that elusive bank approval via an SBA-guaranteed loan .
• Government grants : A handful of financial assistance programs help fund entrepreneurs. Visit Grants.gov to learn which might work for you.
• Venture capital : Offer potential investors an ownership stake in exchange for funds, keeping in mind that you would be sacrificing some control over your business.
• Crowdfunding : Websites like Kickstarter and Indiegogo offer an increasingly popular low-risk option, in which donors fund your vision. Entrepreneurial crowdfunding sites like Fundable and WeFunder enable multiple investors to fund your business.
• Personal : Self-fund your business via your savings, the sale of property or other assets, and support from family and friends.

Bank and SBA loans are probably the best options, other than friends and family, for funding an ice cream business. You might also try crowdfunding if you have an innovative concept.

Step 8: Apply for Ice Cream Shop Licenses and Permits

Starting an ice cream business requires obtaining a number of licenses and permits from local, state, and federal governments.

Federal regulations, licenses, and permits associated with starting your business include doing business as (DBA), health licenses and permits from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration ( OSHA ), trademarks, copyrights, patents, and other intellectual properties, as well as industry-specific licenses and permits. 

You may also need state-level and local county or city-based licenses and permits. The license requirements and how to obtain them vary, so check the websites of your state, city, and county governments or contact the appropriate person to learn more. 

You could also check this SBA guide for your state’s requirements, but we recommend using MyCorporation’s Business License Compliance Package . They will research the exact forms you need for your business and state and provide them to ensure you’re fully compliant.

This is not a step to be taken lightly, as failing to comply with legal requirements can result in hefty penalties.

If you feel overwhelmed by this step or don’t know how to begin, it might be a good idea to hire a professional to help you check all the legal boxes.

Step 9: Open a Business Bank Account

Before you start making money, you’ll need a place to keep it, and that requires opening a bank account .

Keeping your business finances separate from your personal account makes it easy to file taxes and track your company’s income, so it’s worth doing even if you’re running your ice cream business as a sole proprietorship. Opening a business bank account is quite simple, and similar to opening a personal one. Most major banks offer accounts tailored for businesses — just inquire at your preferred bank to learn about their rates and features.

Banks vary in terms of offerings, so it’s a good idea to examine your options and select the best plan for you. Once you choose your bank, bring in your EIN (or Social Security Number if you decide on a sole proprietorship), articles of incorporation, and other legal documents and open your new account. 

Step 10: Get Business Insurance

Business insurance is an area that often gets overlooked yet it can be vital to your success as an entrepreneur. Insurance protects you from unexpected events that can have a devastating impact on your business.

Here are some types of insurance to consider:

• General liability : The most comprehensive type of insurance, acting as a catch-all for many business elements that require coverage. If you get just one kind of insurance, this is it. It even protects against bodily injury and property damage.
• Business Property : Provides coverage for your equipment and supplies.
• Equipment Breakdown Insurance : Covers the cost of replacing or repairing equipment that has broken due to mechanical issues.
• Worker’s compensation : Provides compensation to employees injured on the job.
• Property : Covers your physical space, whether it is a cart, storefront, or office.
• Commercial auto : Protection for your company-owned vehicle.
• Professional liability : Protects against claims from a client who says they suffered a loss due to an error or omission in your work.
• Business owner’s policy (BOP) : This is an insurance plan that acts as an all-in-one insurance policy, a combination of any of the above insurance types.

Step 11: Prepare to Launch

As opening day nears, prepare for launch by reviewing and improving some key elements of your business. 

Essential software and tools

Being an entrepreneur often means wearing many hats, from marketing to sales to accounting, which can be overwhelming. Fortunately, many websites and digital tools are available to help simplify many business tasks.  

You may want to use industry-specific software, such as Nextar POS , Kyte , or Gofrugal to manage flavor batches, track staff performance, generate sales reports, and simplify point-of-sale operations.

• Popular web-based accounting programs for smaller businesses include Quickbooks , Freshbooks , and Xero . 
• If you’re unfamiliar with basic accounting, you may want to hire a professional, especially as you begin. The consequences for filing incorrect tax documents can be harsh, so accuracy is crucial.

Develop your website

Website development is crucial because your site is your online presence and needs to convince prospective clients of your expertise and professionalism.

You can create your own website using services like WordPress, Wix, or Squarespace . This route is very affordable, but figuring out how to build a website can be time-consuming. If you lack tech-savvy, you can hire a web designer or developer to create a custom website for your business.

Your customers are unlikely to find your website, however, unless you follow Search Engine Optimization ( SEO ) practices. These are steps that help pages rank higher in the results of top search engines like Google.

Here are some powerful marketing strategies for your future business:

• Irresistible Samples: Offer free tastings to passersby or partner with local events to let people experience the deliciousness firsthand.
• Themed Promotions: Create special promotions tied to seasons, holidays, or local events to keep your offerings fresh and attract diverse customer bases.
• Loyalty Programs: Implement a loyalty program with rewards like discounts or free toppings to encourage repeat business and build a loyal customer base.
• Social Media Challenges: Engage customers through fun challenges on social media, encouraging them to share creative photos with your ice cream and use a branded hashtag.
• Collaborate with Influencers: Partner with local influencers or bloggers who align with your brand to reach a broader audience and leverage their followers.
• Themed Nights or Events: Host themed nights at your ice cream parlor, like movie nights or live music events, to create a unique and memorable experience for customers.
• Community Partnerships: Build relationships with local businesses for cross-promotions, such as offering discounts to customers who show receipts from nearby establishments.
• Seasonal Flavors: Introduce limited-time seasonal flavors to create a sense of urgency and anticipation among customers, driving them to visit regularly.
• Mobile Ice Cream Cart: Take your ice cream to the streets with a mobile cart, attending local fairs, farmers’ markets, and community events to expand your reach.
• Engaging Packaging: Invest in eye-catching and eco-friendly packaging that not only protects your product but also serves as a mobile billboard for your brand.

Focus on USPs

Unique selling propositions, or USPs, are the characteristics of a product or service that set it apart from the competition. Customers today are inundated with buying options, so you’ll have a real advantage if they are able to quickly grasp how your ice cream business meets their needs or wishes. It’s wise to do all you can to ensure your USPs stand out on your website and in your marketing and promotional materials, stimulating buyer desire. 

Global pizza chain Domino’s is renowned for its USP: “Hot pizza in 30 minutes or less, guaranteed.” Signature USPs for your ice cream business could be:

• Premium subscription, so customers never miss their favorite flavors
• Offer unique flavors found nowhere else 
• Promote your products/shop with a mobile ice cream truck or cart
• Partner with local farms, dairies 

You may not like to network or use personal connections for business gain. But your personal and professional networks likely offer considerable untapped business potential. Maybe that Facebook friend you met in college is now running an ice cream parlor, or a LinkedIn contact of yours is connected to dozens of potential clients. Maybe your cousin or neighbor has been working in ice cream for years and can offer invaluable insight and industry connections. 

The possibilities are endless, so it’s a good idea to review your personal and professional networks and reach out to those with possible links to or interest in ice cream. You’ll probably generate new customers or find companies with which you could establish a partnership. Online businesses might also consider affiliate marketing as a way to build relationships with potential partners and boost business.

Step 12: Build Your Team

If you’re starting out small from home, you may not need any employees. But as your business grows, you will likely need workers to fill various roles. Potential positions for an ice cream business would include:

• Scoopers/Workers
• General Manager
• Marketing Lead

At some point, you may need to hire all of these positions or simply a few, depending on the size and needs of your business. You might also hire multiple workers for a single role or a single worker for multiple roles, again depending on need. 

Free-of-charge methods to recruit employees include posting ads on popular platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, or Jobs.com. You might also consider a premium recruitment option, such as advertising on Indeed , Glassdoor , or ZipRecruiter . Further, if you have the resources, you could consider hiring a recruitment agency to help you find talent. 

Step 13: Run an Ice Cream Shop – Start Making Money!

Now that you know how to start an ice cream business, you’re ready to take the first step in your entrepreneurial journey. Keep in mind that you’ll be able to attract customers and build your brand fast if you can offer enticing new flavors or adventurous combinations of existing flavors. Having a unique concept for your ice cream shop can also do the trick. 

Ice cream production is a $9 billion market in the US. You can still get in on the action and capture a share of this lucrative market. So, get ready to roll and start scooping! 

• Ice Cream Business FAQs

Starting an ice cream business is relatively simple, and it’s also a well-known frozen treat across the U.S. In fact, the average person in the U.S. eats more than 23 pounds of ice cream in a single year. So as long as you’re selling a quality product and have enough customers, you should have a profitable business.

If you have the right location and employ effective marketing, it’s possible to make money. An ice cream shop owner, Mr. Shipley , says that you will need to get heavily involved in your ice cream parlor, as running it remotely will increase the chances of failure.

The profit margin depends on your costs, such as ingredients, and the price that you sell your ice cream at. On average, though, a locally owned parlor could expect between 20% to 50% if the business is run effectively.

The profitability of an ice cream business can vary depending on factors such as location, target market, competition, product quality, pricing, and operational efficiency. 

Yes, you can make your own ice cream and sell it. However, it’s important to comply with local regulations and obtain the necessary licenses and permits to ensure legal operation. Additionally, you should focus on developing unique flavors, using quality ingredients, and implementing proper food safety practices to create a desirable and safe product for your customers.

Established brands like Ben & Jerry’s, Häagen-Dazs, and Baskin-Robbins have achieved significant success globally. However, success can also be found in smaller, locally focused ice cream businesses that provide unique flavors, exceptional customer experiences, or cater to specific dietary preferences or niche markets.

Experiment with creative and innovative flavor combinations that set your ice cream apart from others. Develop signature flavors or limited-edition offerings to generate excitement and curiosity among customers.

Traditional flavors like vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry tend to be popular worldwide. However, other popular flavors include mint chocolate chip, cookies and cream, cookie dough, and various fruit flavors. It’s important to offer a diverse range of flavors to cater to different tastes and preferences. 

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• Decide if the Business Is Right for You
• Hone Your Idea
• Brainstorm an Ice Cream Shop Name
• Create an Ice Cream Shop Business Plan
• Register Your Business
• Register for Taxes
• Fund your Business
• Apply for Ice Cream Shop Licenses and Permits
• Open a Business Bank Account
• Get Business Insurance
• Prepare to Launch
• Build Your Team
• Run an Ice Cream Shop - Start Making Money!

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Ice Cream Shop Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Ice Cream Shop Business Plan

You’ve come to the right place to create your Ice Cream Shop business plan.

We have helped over 1,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans and many have used them to start or grow their Ice Cream Shop businesses.

Below is a template to help you create each section of your Ice Cream Shop business plan.

Executive Summary

Business overview.

Frostee Delights Shop is a startup ice cream company located in Nashville, Tennessee. The shop is founded by Janice Maynor, who has experience in operating an ice cream shop. Now, with the expertise of knowledge and business acumen, she has determined she can confidently start and effectively grow a successful ice cream shop. She believes her experience of strategic growth, marketing skills, financial capabilities, and wide and deep knowledge of ice cream making and selling will provide everything needed for long-term growth and profitability.

Frostee Delights Shop will provide a comprehensive array of ice creams, sherbets, frozen yogurt and other assorted frozen treats for a wide variety of clients. Frostee Delights Shop will be the premier ice cream shop, providing frozen and delicious products to each client while supporting the strategic goals of the shop. Frostee Delights Shop will be the ultimate choice in ice cream and frozen treats for clients to ensure that every need of the customer is fully and completely met.

Product Offering

The following are the products and services that Frostee Delights Shop will provide:

• A wide range of frozen dessert treats, including ice cream, frozen yogurt, sherbets, nonfat frozen ice treats and Italian gelatos
• Ice cream cones in various configurations, including giant waffle cones, sweet tortilla cones, and specialty chocolate-dipped cones
• Nonfat and low fat frozen desserts
• Free “Today’s My Birthday!” ice cream cone
• Gluten-free waffle cones and gluten-free frozen treats
• Prepared Ice cream cakes in multiple sizes for pick-up
• Online “Speedy 15 Minute” express pick-up service
• Discount for orders over $40; Discount for parties and special events
• Free delivery on orders over $100

Customer Focus

Frosty Delights Shop will target all individuals within the greater Nashville area. They will target families, birthday party groups, and wedding parties. They will also target citywide businesses and government entities that occasionally host large groups. They will target schools with K-12 students, as well as city colleges and universities.

Management Team

Frostee Delights will be owned and operated by Janice Maynor. She recruited her former assistant manager, Donna LaCree, to be her shop operations manager and she recruited Tomas Lawinson to be her human resources manager.

Janice Maynor is a graduate of the University of Tennessee where she obtained her bachelor’s degree in business administration. She began working part-time in an ice cream shop while in university and began managing a large nationally-owned ice cream shop upon graduation. She has been a manager for over ten years.

Donna LaCree is a graduate of Pine Community College, where she earned her Associate of Arts degree in business administration. She has worked with Janice Maynor as an assistant for over six years and will take on the role of operations manager in the startup company.

Tomas Lawinson has been a human resources manager for five years, working within a retail chain of stores to oversee employee hiring, human resource practices and procedures, and assist in management. He will become the human resources manager for the startup company.

Success Factors

Frostee Delights Shop will be able to achieve success by offering the following competitive advantages:

• Friendly, knowledgeable, and highly-qualified team at the Frostee Delights Shop
• Comprehensive menu of ice cream and frozen treats with many specialty desserts to suit every consumer.
• Special discounts for large group orders.
• “Speedy 15-minute Express” for pick-up.
• Free delivery for orders over $100.
• Frostee Delights Shop offers the best pricing in town. Their pricing structure is the most cost effective compared to the competition.

Financial Highlights

Frostee Delights Shop is seeking $200,000 in debt financing to launch its ice cream shop. The funding will be dedicated toward securing the shop space and purchasing equipment and supplies. Funding will also be dedicated toward three months of overhead costs to include payroll of the staff, rent, and marketing costs for the print ads and marketing costs. The breakout of the funding is below:

• Shop space build-out: $20,000
• Equipment, supplies, and materials: $10,000
• Three months of overhead expenses (payroll, rent, utilities): $150,000
• Marketing costs: $10,000
• Working capital: $10,000

The following graph outlines the financial projections for the Frostee Delights Shop.

Shop Overview

Who is frostee delights shop.

Frostee Delights Shop is a newly established, full-service ice cream shop in Nashville, Tennessee. Frostee Delights Shop will be the most reliable, cost-effective, and delicious choice for everyone in Nashville and the surrounding communities. Frostee Delights Shop will provide a comprehensive menu of ice cream and frozen dessert products for all individuals, families and parties to utilize. Their full-service approach includes a comprehensive menu of ice cream flavors, specialty frozen desserts and ice cream cakes.

  Frostee Ice Cream Shop will offer a wide, delicious array of excellent ice cream treats, prepared with quality ingredients and expert precision. The team of “ice cream professionals” at the ice cream shop are highly-qualified and experienced in ice cream making and frozen dessert preparation. Frostee Delights Shop removes all headaches and issues of the hunt for excellent ice cream and frozen desserts and ensures all customer needs and desires for ice cream are deliciously met while delivering the best customer service.

Frostee Delights Shop History

The Frostee Delights Shop is owned and operated by Janice Maynor. She is a graduate of the University of Tennessee where she obtained her bachelor’s degree in business administration. She began working part-time in an ice cream shop while in university and began managing a large, nationally-owned ice cream shop upon graduation. She has been a manager in the shop for over ten years. Customers have appreciated the care and attention Janice consistently offers and have determined to follow her to the new ice cream shop.

Since incorporation, Frostee Delights Shop has achieved the following milestones:

• Registered Frostee Delights Shop, LLC to transact business in the state of Tennessee.
• Has a contract in place for a 10,000 square foot shop at one of the midtown buildings
• Reached out to numerous contacts to include Frostee Delights Shop in their online conversations.
• Began recruiting a staff of two and two office personnel to work at Frostee Delights Shop.

Frostee Delights Shop Services

The following will be the services Frostee Delights Shop will provide:

• Nonfat and lowfat frozen desserts

Industry Analysis

The ice cream shop industry is expected to grow over the next five years to over $90,160 million. The growth will be driven by the increased interest of consumers and the wide variety of flavors and frozen desserts available. Global experimentation with flavors, cones and toppings has increased consumer interest and created repeat consumer business across the spectrum of cities and towns globally.

Costs will likely be reduced as technology and software are introduced to both speed the process of ice cream and frozen dessert preparation, as well as methods to enrich and improve the flavors and consumer offers that ice cream desserts can provide for consumers. In addition, software will be further utilized to process day-to-day operations more quickly and with greater efficiency, thereby reducing costs overall.

Customer Analysis

Demographic profile of target market.

Frostee Delights Shop will target all individuals within the greater Nashville area. They will target families, birthday party groups, and wedding parties. They will also target citywide businesses and government entities that occasionally host large groups. They will target schools with K-12 students, as well as city colleges and universities.

Customer Segmentation

Frostee Delights Shop will primarily target the following customer profiles:

• Individuals seeking upmarket ice cream flavors and frozen desserts
• Individuals seeking specialty ice creams, such as gluten-free and sugar-free options
• Families and those celebrating special events
• Businesses, government entities and corporations
• Area colleges and universities

Competitive Analysis

Direct and indirect competitors.

Frostee Delights Shop will face competition from other companies with similar business profiles. A description of each competitor Shop is below.

Jack’s Ice Cream Shack

In 2000, Jack Howell began his ice cream business by renting a portable trailer that hitched to the back of his personal truck. Inside the trailer, he outfitted ice cream machines with various flavors and he arranged ice cream toppings to suit all tastes. Jack opened his mobile ice cream shack on the University of Tennessee campus and began a successful shack business. He now has seven mobile ice cream “shacks,” which are transported to sporting events, city gatherings, nearby tourist attractions and large parties.

Offering only three basic ice cream flavors; vanilla, chocolate and strawberry, Jack Howell depends on a wide variety of toppings to bring unique experiences to his customers. Cut fresh fruit, chocolate chips, gummy worms, and other fun toppings round out the ice cream flavors and bring repeat customers back to Jack’s shacks. The company recently franchised the model and concept nationally to a wide and receptive number of potential franchisees.

Sweet Libations!

Sweet Libations! is owned and operated by Noel Harding, who began the company in 2020 to serve customers who prefer ice cream and frozen yogurt in beverages of all kinds. The company has seen modest success to date by serving such favorites as Cold Press Ice Cream Coffee and Pineapple Frozen Fruit Punch. Sweet Libations! Is located in a mid-city retail area, where shoppers congregate and walk on a regular basis. Noel Harding managed a retail ice cream shop within the downtown Nashville area for over fifteen years before he opened this specialty beverage company. Customers primarily come from the surrounding retail and commercial companies in the city area.

The Hot & Spicy Delicacy Shop

The Hot & Spicy Delicacy Shop caters to consumers who love to experiment with distinctive flavors within gourmet foods. Although not a direct competitor, the shop pulls consumers from the mid-city area by offering quirky desserts and beverages that are not found in any other locations. For example, consumers can order a tasting menu of “Everything Chilies,” which contains glasses of chili pepper ice cream, chili pepper pie and chili pepper pressed juice. This quirky concept is appealing to tourists and others who enjoy distinctive flavors, but not all consumers will choose the experience. Many ice cream choices can be found nowhere else, which appeals to the discriminating consumer looking for an unusual experience. Tami Ray and Tommy Sanger have owned and operated this shop for almost twenty years.

Competitive Advantage

Frostee Delights Shop will be able to offer the following advantages over their competition:

Marketing Plan

Brand & value proposition.

Frostee Delights Shop will offer the unique value proposition to its clientele:

• Highly-qualified team of skilled employees provides a customized ice cream or frozen treat cone for each individual
• Unbeatable pricing for clients; they will offer the lowest pricing in the city.

Promotions Strategy

The promotions strategy for Frostee Delights Shop is as follows:

Word of Mouth/Referrals

Frostee Delights Shop has built up an extensive list of contacts over the years by providing exceptional service and expertise to former customers. The contacts and clients will follow the new startup by visiting, posting the visits online and talking about the shop to help spread the word of Frostee Delights Shop.

Professional Associations and Networking

Trade associations and networking in local and regional groups will be an immediate plan within the Frostee Delights team. Offers to get involved with charitable efforts or citywide events will be made, as each event and group may be potential customers and future business. Special discounts will be offered during the first 90 days of business.

Print Advertising

Two weeks before launch, all residents of Nashville will receive a special invitation to the launch of the Frostee Delights Shop, along with a gift card good for a free cone. In addition, the shop employees will visit companies and area businesses with free ice cream cones for employees to encourage new customers and business in the months ahead.

Website/SEO Marketing

Frostee Delights Shop will fully utilize their website. The website will be well organized, informative, and list all the products that Frostee Delights Shop provides. Daily specials will be included. The website will also list their contact information and list their availability for large-order deliveries. The website will engage in SEO marketing tactics so that anytime someone types in the Google or Bing search engine “Ice Cream Shop ” or “Ice Cream near me,” the Frostee Delights Shop will be listed at the top of the search results.

The pricing of the Frostee Delights Shop will be moderate and on par with competitors so customers feel they receive excellent value when purchasing their services.

Operations Plan

The following will be the operations plan for Frostee Delights Shop. Operation Functions:

• Janice Maynor will be the owner and President of the Shop. She will oversee all staff and manage client relations. She has spent the past year recruiting the following staff:
• Debbie Perkins, as the Shop Assistant will manage the ordering, stocking and inventory of products and supplies for the shop.
• Beth Saylar, the new marketing manager, will provide all marketing for the Frostee Delights Shop, including digital and hard copy promotions.

Milestones:

Frostee Delights Shop will have the following milestones completed in the next six months.

• 5/1/202X – Finalize contract to lease shop space
• 5/15/202X – Finalize personnel and staff employment contracts for the Frostee Delights Shop
• 6/1/202X – Finalize plans for Frostee Delights Shop customers
• 6/15/202X – Begin networking at industry events
• 6/22/202X – Begin moving into Frostee Delights Shop
• 7/1/202X – Frostee Delights Shop opens its doors for business

Frostee Delights will be owned and operated by Janice Maynor. Janice Maynor is a graduate of the University of Tennessee where she obtained her bachelor’s degree in business administration. She began working part-time in an ice cream shop while in university and began managing a large nationally-owned ice cream shop upon graduation. She has been a manager for over ten years.

Donna LaCree is a graduate of Pine Community College, where she earned her Associate of Arts degree in business administration. She has worked with Janice Maynor as an assistant in the ice cream shop for over six years and will take on the role of operations manager in the startup company.

Financial Plan

Key revenue & costs.

The revenue drivers for Frostee Delights Shop are the fees they will charge to XXX for their services.

The cost drivers will be the overhead costs required in order to staff Frostee Delights Shop. The expenses will be the payroll cost, rent, utilities, office supplies, and marketing materials.

Funding Requirements and Use of Funds

Frostee Delights Shop is seeking $200,000 in debt financing to launch its XX. The funding will be dedicated toward securing the office space and purchasing office equipment and supplies. Funding will also be dedicated toward three months of overhead costs to include payroll of the staff, rent, and marketing costs for the print ads and association memberships. The breakout of the funding is below:

Key Assumptions

The following outlines the key assumptions required in order to achieve the revenue and cost numbers in the financials and in order to pay off the startup business loan.

• Number of Customers Per Month: 575
• Average Revenue per Month: $29,250
• Office Lease per Year: $100,000

Financial Projections

Income statement, balance sheet, cash flow statement, ice cream shop business plan faqs, what is an ice cream shop business plan.

An ice cream shop business plan is a plan to start and/or grow your ice cream shop business. Among other things, it outlines your business concept, identifies your target customers, presents your marketing plan and details your financial projections. You can easily complete your Ice Cream Shop business plan using our Ice Cream Shop Business Plan Template here .

What are the Main Types of Ice Cream Shop Businesses?

There are a number of different kinds of ice cream shop businesses, some examples include: Self serve ice cream shop, ice cream truck, and gourmet ice cream shop.

How Do You Get Funding for Your Ice Cream Shop Business Plan?

Ice Cream Shop businesses are often funded through small business loans. Personal savings, credit card financing and angel investors are also popular forms of funding.

What are the Steps To Start an Ice Cream Shop Business?

Starting an ice cream shop business can be an exciting endeavor. Having a clear roadmap of the steps to start a business will help you stay focused on your goals and get started faster. 1. Develop An Ice Cream Shop Business Plan - The first step in starting a business is to create a detailed ice cream shop business plan that outlines all aspects of the venture. This should include potential market size and target customers, the services or products you will offer, pricing strategies and a detailed financial forecast. 2. Choose Your Legal Structure - It's important to select an appropriate legal entity for your ice cream shop business. This could be a limited liability company (LLC), corporation, partnership, or sole proprietorship. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks so it’s important to do research and choose wisely so that your ice cream shop business is in compliance with local laws. 3. Register Your Ice Cream Shop Business - Once you have chosen a legal structure, the next step is to register your ice cream shop business with the government or state where you’re operating from. This includes obtaining licenses and permits as required by federal, state, and local laws. 4. Identify Financing Options - It’s likely that you’ll need some capital to start your ice cream shop business, so take some time to identify what financing options are available such as bank loans, investor funding, grants, or crowdfunding platforms. 5. Choose a Location - Whether you plan on operating out of a physical location or not, you should always have an idea of where you’ll be based should it become necessary in the future as well as what kind of space would be suitable for your operations. 6. Hire Employees - There are several ways to find qualified employees including job boards like LinkedIn or Indeed as well as hiring agencies if needed – depending on what type of employees you need it might also be more effective to reach out directly through networking events. 7. Acquire Necessary Ice Cream Shop Equipment & Supplies - In order to start your ice cream shop business, you'll need to purchase all of the necessary equipment and supplies to run a successful operation. 8. Market & Promote Your Business - Once you have all the necessary pieces in place, it’s time to start promoting and marketing your ice cream shop business. This includes creating a website, utilizing social media platforms like Facebook or Twitter, and having an effective Search Engine Optimization (SEO) strategy. You should also consider traditional marketing techniques such as radio or print advertising.

Learn more about how to start a successful ice cream shop business:

• How to Start an Ice Cream Shop

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How to Start an Ice Cream Cart Business

Did you know that Europeans buy, on average, about 9 kg of ice cream per year?

Same goes for US: the average American consumes 22 lbs of ice cream every year.

In fact, the ice cream demand is so great, the ice cream industry produces more than 870 million gallons of it every year, generating over $5 billion in 2014 alone.

However, before you run off to start your own mobile ice cream shop , you need to understand several important aspects that are specific to this niche. Hopefully, by the time you finish reading this post, you’ll have a clear idea of exactly what you need to do in order to turn your appreciation of ice cream into a fresh source of monthly income. So let’s get started, shall we?

1. Things to Consider: Challenges and Hidden Opportunities

As with any vending business, an ice cream cart venture has its specific challenges and opportunities and it’s entirely up to you to make them work in your favor.

For example, the greatest challenges ice cream carts owners face are the ones related to their local council’s street food regulations that usually address the vending carts equipment and the trading locations.

At the same time, seasonal limitations should also be considered: if you live in an area where the weather tends to be drafty and wet most of the time, selling ice cream outdoor would be a challenge, to say the least. Add to that the convenience of supermarket shopping and you get the full picture of an ice cream cart business’ limitations.

However, the “when one door closes, another one opens” adage successfully applies in this case: many ice cream cart vendors work around these restrictions by catering to fairs, private events, and parties. And, according to our customers, one of the most lucrative sub-niche is renting the ice cream cart to weddings and birthday parties.

Other advantages of an ice cream cart business are low start-up costs, excellent profit margins, minimal waste, and little skill required (unless you prepare the ice cream yourself).

2. Find Out the Legal Requirements of an Ice Cream Cart Business

Thorough research and planning will help tremendously, especially since legislation concerning street food vending varies from one country to another and even from one city to another. The legal requirements don’t only determine what and where you’re allowed to sell; they also determine your vending cart’s equipment. We often adapt our carts, including ice cream vending carts , to fulfill regulations concerning hot & cold water supply, waste disposal, and so on.

So, the first thing you should do is to contact your local Health Department or the Department of Environmental Services in your area and address the following issues:

• The street food vending regulations in your city;
• The types of food you’ll be selling and how they’re handled, stored, and served;
• Commissary requirements (the requirement to operate from a licensed commercial kitchen)*;
• The size, make and the equipment of the ice cream vending cart;
• The cart’s fresh water and waste water holding capacity;
• Safe food handling course requirement;
• Hygiene policies;
• Pre-approval inspection of the equipment.

* In the US, most municipalities don’t allow street food vendors to operate a food service business from a residential kitchen and they require the use of a commissary – a licensed and inspected commercial kitchen. Vendors have to report to the commissary each day of operation to prepare the food that will be served from the cart and to clean the cart’s equipment at the end of the day. However, since you’ll be selling frozen desserts, check if this applies in your case.

After learning about the health and safety requirements, you should the contact the Business License Department and find out what you need to obtain your business license.

If you’re planning to advertise on mobile billboards , you should also check if there’s a limit on the maximum amount of signage you are allowed to use.

Legal Requirements, in short

Most of our customers said the requirements usually involve a health permit, a food handling permit, an ice cream vendor permit, a business license and insurance. You might also need a criminal background check before the permits can be issued to you

3. Research Target Market and Locations

Make a list with street vending locations.

Start by making a list of all the places with good vending potential in your area. The list should include include neighborhoods occupied by families, parks, shopping centers, swimming pools, beaches, fairs and festival locations, and other places where children and adults frequently go.

Remove those where street vending is restricted and highlight the ones that seem most attractive to you.

Brainstorm catering opportunities

After refining the first list, make a second one that addresses catering to private events and parties. An ice cream vending cart can be the center of attention at company picnics, community get-togethers, fairs, festivals, parades, fundraisers, birthday parties, engagement parties, weddings and more.

The idea of having soft-serve ice cream desserts at private celebrations and social events is a huge hit with the customers, and the best part is that parties always lead to more parties. Virtually every event you’ll attend could bring in future business, but this also means you’ll have to rise up to the occasion and be the best in what you do!

4. Research Your Competition

As a first time entrepreneur, you should thoroughly research all the aspects of your future business, and sizing up your competition is a crucial part of this stage. Who else sells ice cream in your area? Visit each one of them and observe how they’re operating their business. Pay attention to things such as:

• Vendor’s attitude;
• What are they doing right;
• What are they doing wrong;
• What are the things you could do better;
• What kinds of ice cream, toppings, and sides they’re selling;
• Unique flavours and combinations;
• Best selling products;
• Particular customer preferences;
• Marketing and branding.

Write all these things down as they will help you create your menu, your pricing structure, and your marketing strategy.

5. Create Your Ice Cream Cart Business Plan

This step is all about planning, since you can’t start and operate a successful business without a good business plan. Writing it down will give you a clear direction and keep you from making costly financial mistakes, especially in the beginning.

Your business plan should cover:

• Legal expenses for obtaining licenses and permits;
• Ice Cream Vending Cart price;
• Operational cost for the first 1-2 months;
• Initial stock costs ( 1-2 months);
• Incidental costs: napkins, plasticware, to-go containers, etc;
• Marketing and advertising expenses.

Marketing Strategy and Sales Strategy

How do you plan to market and advertise your business? You could:

• Throw opening party to let locals know you’re open for business;
• Engage in community events to sell your products;
• Advertise your products in your local media;
• List your business on local & online directories;
• Create a landing page for your business;
• Leverage the power of social media;
• Engage in direct marketing and sales;
• Encourage the use of Word-of-Mouth marketing (referrals);

6. Things to Consider

– Decide what you want to sell: high-end, artisanal ice-cream, frozen yogurts, popsicles, or any other variation of ice cream products. Write down all your ideas and then pick one that most excites you.

Picking one or two products as your specialty matters more than you think. If you try being all things to all people, you may have the opportunity to draw in more customers, but you’ll also have to stock accordingly.

On the other hand, if you pick a specialty or two, you can offer a product that a smaller group loves and build yourself a loyal following. And by doing so, you can charge significantly higher margins for your specialty product.

Then there’s a mater of equipment. Selling prepackaged ice cream doesn’t require much in terms of appliances and an ice cream cart equipped with a 98L freezer is perfect for the job. Gelato comes with different requirements concerning storage and handling. But a gelato cart fitted with a pozzetti system and one or two sinks is usually the standard.

– Make sure people know where to find you if you move around often. You could use Facebook and Twitter to tell customers where you are. You can also do this on your website if you decided to have one.

– Learn to upsell. If a customer orders a scoop of ice cream, ask if she would like to make it a double or if she would like sprinkles and a cherry.

– Have popular flavors on hand, and even unusual ones, such as jalapeno apricot. Vanilla is the most popular ice cream flavor, followed by chocolate chip mint and cookies & cream.

– Stay open on days you’re likely to garner more sales, such as Sunday and Monday. Cold Stone Creamery reports that Sunday is the most popular day for ice cream sales. According to Mashable, food trucks are busiest on Mondays.

– Brand yourself! Find a catchy name, and decide on a style that will reflect your business and its personality. Branding also means consistency, so make sure that all your promotional materials, design and copywriting wise, stay true to your identity and brand message!

The Conclusion

Starting and running a mobile ice cream stand business is a lot of work, but if you do it right, it’s not only rewarding, it’s also a lot of fun.

What’s more is that you get to be your own boss and brighten people’s lives on a daily basis, and these are great personal motivators. Good luck and, if you have questions, contact us anytime.

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Ice Cream Shop Business Plan Template

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Ice Cream Business Plan Template & Guidebook

Whether you are a seasoned ice cream maker or looking to break into the industry, having a comprehensive and effective business plan is essential for achieving success. The #1 Ice Cream Business Plan Template & Guidebook provides all the resources you need to create a thorough and easy-to-follow business plan that outlines the steps to start and maintain a successful ice cream business. With this guidebook, you can take advantage of expert advice, relevant tips and templates, and concise information to help plan your venture with confidence.

Get worry-free services and support to launch your business starting at $0 plus state fees.

• How to Start a Profitable Ice Cream Business [11 Steps]
• 10+ Best & Profitable Ice Cream Business Ideas [2023]
• 25 Catchy Ice Cream Business Names:
• List of the Best Marketing Ideas For Your Ice Cream Business:

How to Write a Ice Cream Business Plan in 7 Steps:

1. describe the purpose of your ice cream business..

The first step to writing your business plan is to describe the purpose of your ice cream business. This includes describing why you are starting this type of business, and what problems it will solve for customers. This is a quick way to get your mind thinking about the customers’ problems. It also helps you identify what makes your business different from others in its industry.

It also helps to include a vision statement so that readers can understand what type of company you want to build.

Here is an example of a purpose mission statement for a ice cream business:

Our mission at [NAME OF COMPANY] is to provide delicious and unique ice cream offerings to our customers, creating a positive and memorable experience for each of them. We are committed to using premium ingredients to make the best ice cream, and we strive to be an inspiring and innovative leader in the industry.

2. Products & Services Offered by Your Ice Cream Business.

The next step is to outline your products and services for your ice cream business. 

When you think about the products and services that you offer, it's helpful to ask yourself the following questions:

• What is my business?
• What are the products and/or services that I offer?
• Why am I offering these particular products and/or services?
• How do I differentiate myself from competitors with similar offerings?
• How will I market my products and services?

You may want to do a comparison of your business plan against those of other competitors in the area, or even with online reviews. This way, you can find out what people like about them and what they don’t like, so that you can either improve upon their offerings or avoid doing so altogether.

3. Build a Creative Marketing Stratgey.

If you don't have a marketing plan for your ice cream business, it's time to write one. Your marketing plan should be part of your business plan and be a roadmap to your goals. 

A good marketing plan for your ice cream business includes the following elements:

Target market

• Who is your target market?
• What do these customers have in common?
• How many of them are there?
• How can you best reach them with your message or product?

Customer base 

• Who are your current customers? 
• Where did they come from (i.e., referrals)?
• How can their experience with your ice cream business help make them repeat customers, consumers, visitors, subscribers, or advocates for other people in their network or industry who might also benefit from using this service, product, or brand?

Product or service description

• How does it work, what features does it have, and what are its benefits?
• Can anyone use this product or service regardless of age or gender?
• Can anyone visually see themselves using this product or service?
• How will they feel when they do so? If so, how long will the feeling last after purchasing (or trying) the product/service for the first time?

Competitive analysis

• Which companies are competing with yours today (and why)? 
• Which ones may enter into competition with yours tomorrow if they find out about it now through word-of-mouth advertising; social media networks; friends' recommendations; etc.)
• What specific advantages does each competitor offer over yours currently?

Marketing channels

• Which marketing channel do you intend to leverage to attract new customers?
• What is your estimated marketing budget needed?
• What is the projected cost to acquire a new customer?
• How many of your customers do you instead will return?

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4. Write Your Operational Plan.

Next, you'll need to build your operational plan. This section describes the type of business you'll be running, and includes the steps involved in your operations. 

In it, you should list:

• The equipment and facilities needed
• Who will be involved in the business (employees, contractors)
• Financial requirements for each step
• Milestones & KPIs
• Location of your business
• Zoning & permits required for the business

What equipment, supplies, or permits are needed to run a ice cream business?

• Equipment: Freezer, ice cream maker, tables and chairs, dipping cabinets and refrigerators
• Supplies: Ice cream containers, scoops, spoons, bowls, glassware and linens
• Permits: Health/food handling permit, sales tax permit and business license

5. Management & Organization of Your Ice Cream Business.

The second part of your ice cream business plan is to develop a management and organization section.

This section will cover all of the following:

• How many employees you need in order to run your ice cream business. This should include the roles they will play (for example, one person may be responsible for managing administrative duties while another might be in charge of customer service).
• The structure of your management team. The higher-ups like yourself should be able to delegate tasks through lower-level managers who are directly responsible for their given department (inventory and sales, etc.).
• How you’re going to make sure that everyone on board is doing their job well. You’ll want check-ins with employees regularly so they have time to ask questions or voice concerns if needed; this also gives you time to offer support where necessary while staying informed on how things are going within individual departments too!

6. Ice Cream Business Startup Expenses & Captial Needed.

This section should be broken down by month and year. If you are still in the planning stage of your business, it may be helpful to estimate how much money will be needed each month until you reach profitability.

Typically, expenses for your business can be broken into a few basic categories:

Startup Costs

Startup costs are typically the first expenses you will incur when beginning an enterprise. These include legal fees, accounting expenses, and other costs associated with getting your business off the ground. The amount of money needed to start a ice cream business varies based on many different variables, but below are a few different types of startup costs for a ice cream business.

Running & Operating Costs

Running costs refer to ongoing expenses related directly with operating your business over time like electricity bills or salaries paid out each month. These types of expenses will vary greatly depending on multiple variables such as location, team size, utility costs, etc.

Marketing & Sales Expenses

You should include any costs associated with marketing and sales, such as advertising and promotions, website design or maintenance. Also, consider any additional expenses that may be incurred if you decide to launch a new product or service line. For example, if your ice cream business has an existing website that needs an upgrade in order to sell more products or services, then this should be listed here.

7. Financial Plan & Projections

A financial plan is an important part of any business plan, as it outlines how the business will generate revenue and profit, and how it will use that profit to grow and sustain itself. To devise a financial plan for your ice cream business, you will need to consider a number of factors, including your start-up costs, operating costs, projected revenue, and expenses. 

Here are some steps you can follow to devise a financial plan for your ice cream business plan:

• Determine your start-up costs: This will include the cost of purchasing or leasing the space where you will operate your business, as well as the cost of buying or leasing any equipment or supplies that you need to start the business.
• Estimate your operating costs: Operating costs will include utilities, such as electricity, gas, and water, as well as labor costs for employees, if any, and the cost of purchasing any materials or supplies that you will need to run your business.
• Project your revenue: To project your revenue, you will need to consider the number of customers you expect to have and the average amount they will spend on each visit. You can use this information to estimate how much money you will make from selling your products or services.
• Estimate your expenses: In addition to your operating costs, you will need to consider other expenses, such as insurance, marketing, and maintenance. You will also need to set aside money for taxes and other fees.
• Create a budget: Once you have estimated your start-up costs, operating costs, revenue, and expenses, you can use this information to create a budget for your business. This will help you to see how much money you will need to start the business, and how much profit you can expect to make.
• Develop a plan for using your profit: Finally, you will need to decide how you will use your profit to grow and sustain your business. This might include investing in new equipment, expanding the business, or saving for a rainy day.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ice Cream Business Plans:

Why do you need a business plan for a ice cream business.

A business plan is essential for any business, including an ice cream business, as it outlines the goals and objectives of the organization, provides a roadmap for achieving those goals, and helps entrepreneurs secure financing to get started. A business plan will help to clarify the key components of the ice cream business and identify potential risks and opportunities. Additionally, it will provide a structured approach for analyzing market data and developing marketing strategies that can help an ice cream business achieve success.

Who should you ask for help with your ice cream business plan?

You should ask for help from a business consultant, accountant, or lawyer who specializes in small business planning. They can provide you with expertise and guidance on how to effectively create a successful plan for your ice cream business. Additionally, your local Small Business Administration (SBA) office can also provide training and advice for starting a business.

Can you write a ice cream business plan yourself?

Yes, it is possible to write a ice cream business plan yourself. A business plan is a document that outlines your company's goals, strategies, target customers, and financial projections. When writing a business plan for an ice cream business, you should include details about your product offerings, pricing strategies, marketing plans, operations, and financials. You should also include a competitive analysis to make sure that your plans are in line with the industry standards. Additionally, you should use market research to discover trends and consumer demand within your particular target market.

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I'm Nick, co-founder of newfoundr.com, dedicated to helping aspiring entrepreneurs succeed. As a small business owner with over five years of experience, I have garnered valuable knowledge and insights across a diverse range of industries. My passion for entrepreneurship drives me to share my expertise with aspiring entrepreneurs, empowering them to turn their business dreams into reality.

Through meticulous research and firsthand experience, I uncover the essential steps, software, tools, and costs associated with launching and maintaining a successful business. By demystifying the complexities of entrepreneurship, I provide the guidance and support needed for others to embark on their journey with confidence.

From assessing market viability and formulating business plans to selecting the right technology and navigating the financial landscape, I am dedicated to helping fellow entrepreneurs overcome challenges and unlock their full potential. As a steadfast advocate for small business success, my mission is to pave the way for a new generation of innovative and driven entrepreneurs who are ready to make their mark on the world.

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How to start and run a Mobile Ice cream business

The inside scoop

About this type of business

In the 1950’s there were about 20,000 ice cream van operators in Britain – now there is less than a quarter of that number.

The problem isn’t just the reliance on seasonal and sunny trade, but also the swamping of the market by supermarket chains and the introduction of legislation limiting where people can trade.

Having said that, there is still a very good market for ice cream and a potential to make a lot of money.

The Main Advantages of an Ice Cream Business:

1) excellent profit margins.

On a hot sunny day few things can beat an ice cream. When the weather is fine and the pitch is right, ice cream vans can clean up. Ice cream offers probably the best profit margins in catering. Obviously you have to also pay for the cone, petrol, running of the van, tax and wages out of that, but compared to most catering businesses – most businesses in fact – this is a very tidy margin.

2) Minimal Waste

Waste is not a major issue, the most you are likely to throw away is a litre of soft ice. Imagine what it costs a burger trader to throw away 70 burgers, plus buns etc. Your major cost in terms of waste is likely to be petrol and wages if the heavens open. Due to the long shelf life of most of an ice cream vendor’s stock, you are unlikely to lose much money on waste, avoiding one of the major headaches of any catering business.

3) Little Skill Required

Assuming that you are not making the ice cream yourself from scratch, there is very little skill required to run an ice cream van. Unlike some hot food units where certain dishes require some cheffing skills, ice cream vendors just need a good grasp of food hygiene, a driving licence and sometimes a DPS check to allow you to work with children.

4) Seasonal Popularity

When the sun does come out, everyone wants an ice cream. It is a traditional summertime treat, which is obviously very popular with children, although, most people will eat an ice cream in good weather, while they may not eat so much hot food.

5) Find Business

You can travel around looking for customers, you don’t have to wait for them to come to you. If one road is a bit quiet, you can always move onto the next, as long as you have permission to be there. You can even play chimes to attract customers.

The Main Disadvantages of an Ice Cream Business:

1) bans and licences.

Over the last decade or so, ice cream vending has been targeted by health campaigners and Local Authorities, who have banned vans from many of the places that were most profitable e.g. near schools, parks and town centres.

Each Local Authority will have its own interpretation of the legislation and how to apply the rules, so it is essential that you talk them about where you can and can’t trade, whether you will require a licence and if, when and how you can  use the chimes .

You are also likely to need to get a street trading licence from the local council and you may find that you are prohibited from working in certain areas or on certain pitches. Despite all this, there are still illegal ice cream operations, flaunting the licensing rules and many others, which has had a negative impact on those trying to do it properly.

2) Supermarket Competition

Like many other small businesses, the ice cream trade has been affected by the dominance of supermarkets who can offer multi-packs of choc-ices and lollies at considerably less cost than ice cream vendors.

3) Weather Dependent

To state the obvious, the weather in the UK has never been ideal for ice cream traders. In particularly wet years it can be a real struggle to make money. As the season is so short, one wet month can have a major impact on your cash flow and profitability.

4) Finding a Pitch

If you are going to set up a mobile business and have found yourself a pitch, be sure of one thing, someone has, or is most likely working that pitch already at the moment. Mobile trading can be very competitive and it may be difficult to break in where there are several vendors already operating – it has been known to create threatening behaviour. If you decide to go the franchise route you may find that there is a support mechanism in place to help with pitch finding, but in general this is the hardest part of setting up in the ice cream business.

FREE DOWNLOAD

Food business start-up checklist.

In this guide, we cover all the things you need to get in place if you are starting a new food business.

Getting Started

Initial considerations.

• Are you going to take over an existing business or start from scratch?
• Are you going to buy into a franchise e.g. Walls?
• Are you going to trade on the streets, at events or both?
• What training, documents and licences are required in order to trade legally?
• what type of ice cream do you want to sell? Hard or soft? Gelato? Organic?
• Are you going to trade from a van, trailer or cart/trike?

It is important that you answer these questions, as the costs and profits will vary widely depending on the decisions you make. For instance, a new ice cream van can cost upwards of £60,000, a five year old one averages about £15,000, a new trailer might cost around £17,000 and a trike or cart might be as low as £3,000.

Creating a business plan will really help at this stage. It may sound very complicated, but it is in fact quite simple and should help you in the decision making process.

Other factors to consider

• Who are you competing against? Are there going to be any problems?
• Are you employing staff or working by yourself?
• Full time or part time?
• Is the market expanding or contracting?
• Is there room for another player?
• How much will you charge? Could a child afford it?

These are issues that you should address before parting with any of your hard earned cash.

The great majority of your customers will pay you in cash. Occasionally you may get a corporate client that will want to pay by cheque or even by credit or debit card, so you need to make your terms clear at the outset.

You will need to estimate how much income you will receive over the next 12 months, including VAT. To do this you will have to estimate how much ice cream and other products you are likely to sell, and at what price. You will also need to know at what price you can buy them and don’t forget the seasonal trends.

Product Range

There are other things you can sell as well as ice creams – snacks, lollies, choc-ices, sweets and so on. You may decide to offer hot food such as hot-dogs and burgers to boost your income during the winter months. This will require additional training, cleaning and equipment. Don’t forget that there is a limit to the amount of equipment that you can fit into an ice cream van, so it’s important that you only stock popular items. The secret is don’t be afraid to try something different, but remember, TEST, TEST, TEST to see which items sell best.

Other products you could consider:

• Cold drinks and semi-frozen ‘slush’ drinks
• Sweets & confectionery
• Snacks e.g. crisps, sandwiches

If you are interested in getting started in the ice cream business then we strongly suggest that you buy our Profitable Mobile Catering guide. Its information is invaluable.

We're here to help make your catering business a success. Whether that be starting up or getting on top of your compliance and marketing. We're here to help you succeed.

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