Philadelphia — Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard, the world’s largest Italian Ice concept with more than 600 locations, is on track to double its 2026 new shop signings. Rita’s has experienced a 100% increase in franchise ownership inquiries compared with 2025.
“We’re seeing tremendous interest from entrepreneurs who want a proven franchise backed by a recognizable brand and an operating model designed for long term growth,” says Lawrence Brown, chief development officer of Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard. “Combined with smaller kitchen footprints, low COGS (less than 18% on average), no fryer requirements and staffing efficiencies, the model’s real estate flexibility allows franchisees to enter and adapt to local markets while benefiting from a straightforward business operation built to scale.”
Driven by the brand’s real estate strategy, including second-generation restaurant conversions and drive-thru locations, strong unit economics and growing franchise interest in markets where families are moving, the brand is expanding outside of its core Mid-Atlantic market to the Midwest and south-central United States.
Drive-thru development continues to be a significant growth driver. According to Rita’s, drive-thru shops generated 38% higher average gross sales in 2025 than comparable non-drive-thru locations.
Founded in Bensalem, Pa., in 1984, Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard is now the largest Italian Ice concept in the world with more than 600 shops. For more information, visit www.OwnARitasFranchise.com.
SOURCE: Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard