Philadelphia — In 2024, Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard opened 39 new locations, including 10 international shops, for a total of 575 operating units. The company continued its rapid growth in existing markets while expanding its reach in the Midwest, Michigan, Ohio and Texas, among other states. The company has also made two key recent hires.
“We are committed to driving growth and expansion across key markets, enhancing our product offerings through innovative design and development, and leveraging cutting-edge technology to further elevate the customer experience,” says CEO Linda Chadwick. “Together, these initiatives will position us for sustained success and the continued market leadership we’ve seen for 40 years and counting.”
In 2025, Lawrence Brown was brought on as chief development officer. He brings with him many years of experience in the restaurant franchise space, previously working with brands like Burger King, Fat Tuesday and Tim Hortons. Most recently, Brown served as senior vice president, head of franchising & development for Tide Services before joining Rita’s Italian Ice.
Carmela Hughley was also appointed as senior vice president of marketing insights and innovation. Hughley brings over 25 years of leadership experience in retail, operations and consumer brand growth to the new role. Most recently, she was vice president of field operations at Madison Reed, driving its expansion from six to 87 locations in just 3 years.
Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard first opened in Bensalem, Pa., in 1984. Now, Rita’s is the largest Italian Ice concept in the world with over 575 shops. For more information, visit www.ritasice.com and www.ownaritas.com.
SOURCE: Rita’s Franchise Company