Who we are

Bruster's advertises "real ice cream" that is "a scoop above the rest." Stores make fresh ice cream every day using an old-fashioned technique called "slow kettle processing." This method creates a signature flavor designed to set Bruster's ice cream apart from competitors in the frozen dessert industry. The brand also stresses its use of farm-fresh ingredients and premium toppings and mix-ins. Each ice cream flavor starts with a proprietary mix of ingredients to ensure quality and taste. Most stores make other in-house dessert items, such as waffle cones and ice cream cakes and pies.

There are 150 flavors of Bruster's ice cream, and each store generally carries 24 flavors at a time. This number usually includes various flavors of ice cream, sorbet, Italian ice, sherbet, and yogurt. There are both standard and seasonal choices. Customers can sign up through the website to get an email every time their favorite flavors are available at their local stores.

The Bruster's brand focuses on community engagement through fundraising opportunities. Schools, clubs, and other community organizations can partner with local Bruster's units to host fundraising events and/or sell coupon booklets. Franchisees who have chosen to purchase a mobile unit or concession cart may also offer event catering and choose to donate a portion of profits back to their local communities.

Why choose Bruster's?

The Bruster's brand has been in business for decades and has developed a precise, well-defined system for franchisees. The franchisor offers exclusive territory, and franchisees can choose to open a freestanding store or an inline unit located in a strip mall shopping center. Existing franchisees also have the opportunity to expand sales through mobile ice cream units and concession carts, which can provide catering service. Owners receive training in making ice cream according to the Bruster's method and access to proprietary equipment and mixes. They may also choose to participate in the Bruster's loyalty rewards program, which may improve customer satisfaction and sales. A Bruster's franchise could be a good choice for entrepreneurs with military backgrounds, as the franchisor offers a significant discount (50% off franchise fees) to veterans.

Who we're looking for

Entrepreneurs who are passionate about the ice cream industry and who wish to be actively involved in the operation of a Bruster's store may make good candidates. The franchisor prefers franchisees to serve as general managers, though it is not a requirement. Ideal candidates also need to meet the financial requirements for liquidity and net worth, which are fairly high.

Training and Support

Before a new franchise opens, the franchisor (Bruster's) requires training of at least two full-time employees. One of these people must be the general manager, and the other can be the franchisee or another employee. This required training is approximately 10 days long and may occur at the Bruster's headquarters or at another designated location. Additionally, Bruster's provides franchisees with assistance from on-site training personal for a few days during the opening week.