Ben & Jerry's
Food & Beverage · Desserts
Description
What is Ben & Jerry's?
What sets Ben & Jerry's apart is their dedication to creating extraordinary ice cream experiences through innovative flavors, high-quality ingredients, and generous portions of their signature chunks and swirls. Their menu features everything from classic favorites to creative new combinations, including options for various dietary preferences with non-dairy and vegan alternatives.
Franchise owners benefit from joining a brand that consistently ranks among the most respected names in the dessert industry. The business model combines retail scoop shops with catering opportunities, allowing entrepreneurs to serve their communities both in-store and at special events. Their strong brand recognition and loyal customer base are complemented by ongoing product innovations and seasonal offerings that keep customers coming back.
Beyond the business aspects, Ben & Jerry's is known for its strong commitment to environmental sustainability and social justice, attracting socially conscious customers and franchisees alike. The company's values-led approach to business resonates strongly with modern consumers who appreciate brands that stand for more than just their products.
With comprehensive training programs and established operational systems, Ben & Jerry's provides franchisees with the tools needed to deliver the exceptional experience customers have come to expect from this beloved brand.
- Iconic 46-year premium brand heritage since 1978
- 47% above-average revenue performance vs dessert sector peers
- Special shop-only flavors exclusive to franchise locations
- Strong social mission brand differentiation with community focus
- Three-part mission creating linked prosperity for all stakeholders
- Established system with 151 active units demonstrating market presence
Location Analysis
Where Ben & Jerry's wins
The franchise's footprint reveals a focus on premium locations like tourist destinations, urban shopping districts, and high-traffic retail centers, particularly in areas with higher disposable income and younger demographics. This positioning aligns with Ben & Jerry's premium brand identity and social mission.
Key success factors include proximity to entertainment venues, college campuses, and areas with high pedestrian activity. The brand's significant presence in coastal states suggests opportunity for expansion in the Midwest and Mountain regions, where the brand's socially conscious messaging and premium product offering could resonate with urban professionals and millennials.
Ideal locations typically feature: high foot traffic areas, proximity to complementary businesses (theaters, shopping centers), strong presence of target demographics (18-45 age group), and areas with above-average household incomes. Weather patterns should also be considered, with indoor seating and alternative revenue streams important in colder climate markets.
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Financial Analysis
The numbers behind Ben & Jerry's
With 151 units and a 46-year operational history since 1978, Ben & Jerry's demonstrates substantial system maturity and brand establishment. The franchise leverages exceptional brand recognition built through decades of creative marketing, social activism, and premium product positioning. However, the limited unit count relative to the brand's age suggests selective expansion or market saturation in premium segments.
The reported gross revenue of $607,375 exceeds sub-sector averages by approximately 47%, indicating strong brand performance potential. The franchise operates in the premium dessert category, requiring investors comfortable with higher-cost ingredients, seasonal variations, and community engagement expectations aligned with the brand's social mission.
Ideal candidates should possess adequate liquid capital and demonstrate alignment with Ben & Jerry's values-driven business model. The franchise suits investors seeking lifestyle businesses in high-traffic retail locations with strong demographic appeal to families and socially-conscious consumers. Prospective franchisees must review the FDD thoroughly and conduct comprehensive market analysis before investment decisions.
Financing partners
Vetted partners, tailored to franchisees
Your Franzy advisor can connect you with these partners later in the process — competitive rates, specialized in franchise financing.
FranFund
CRF USA
Nonprofit SBA lender; provides financing for franchise acquisitions, startups, and expansion.
First Bank of the Lake
Pension Pros
FDD Item 7
Initial investment range
Per FDD Item 7, total initial investment ranges from $237,800 to $549,300. The midpoint $393,550 is what most franchisees report at signing — financing typically reduces cash-at-close by 80–90%. Knowing the investment range helps you plan confidently and ensure you're fully prepared to make the leap.
FDD Item 19
Average gross sales
According to Item 19 of the Franchise Disclosure Document, Ben & Jerry's has an average gross revenue of $607K. (Note: This information is based on the latest FDD in our records. Please review the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) and confirm this information directly with the brand. We make no claims of accuracy for the information presented.)
Growth over time
Franchise footprint
2024 Franchise Disclosure
FDD documents
Below are items 2, 3, 4, 7, 11 and 19 for Ben & Jerry's's 2024 FDD. The complete FDD is delivered to you directly by the franchisor, per the FTC Franchise Rule.
Connect to download Items 2, 3, 4, and 11 — direct from the franchisor.
Buyer FAQs
Frequently asked questions
The initial investment for a Ben & Jerry's franchise typically ranges between $237,800.00 and $549,300.00. This includes the franchise fee, equipment, real estate, and other startup costs. To get a detailed breakdown and better understand the financial requirements, we recommend scheduling a call with the Franzy team. We'll walk you through the specifics and answer any questions you might have. For more detailed information, refer to the financial sections of the FDD.
Disclaimer. The information provided on this page is based on the latest Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) that is publicly available and that we have on record, which was issued in 2024. This information is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal, financial, or business advice. We make no guarantees or claims regarding the completeness or accuracy. For the most current and detailed information, we recommend consulting the franchisor directly for the most recent FDD and regarding any questions that you may have about the information provided.
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