Pitango Gelato

Pitango Gelato

Information based on 2023 FDD

Food & Beverage · Coffee & Tea

Investment min
$391K
Total: $391K–$697K
Avg gross revenue
$526K
Unit-level, 2023
Franchise fee
$35K
Per current disclosure
Royalty
5%/wk
Locations
5
Franchising since 2020

Description

What is Pitango Gelato?

Pitango Gelato stands as a premium artisanal gelato concept that has been delighting customers with authentic Italian-style frozen treats since 2007. This boutique franchise brings the rich, creamy traditions of Italian gelato-making to the American market, offering a sophisticated alternative to conventional ice cream establishments.

What sets Pitango apart is their unwavering commitment to quality and authenticity. Each location crafts small batches of gelato using traditional methods and premium ingredients, ensuring a product that captures the true essence of Italian gelato. Their menu features both classic and innovative flavors, complemented by a carefully curated selection of coffee and tea offerings that create an elevated café experience.

The brand has cultivated a loyal following by focusing on creating warm, inviting spaces where customers can savor their treats in an atmosphere that blends European café culture with modern aesthetics. Each Pitango location serves as a neighborhood gathering spot, perfect for both quick treats and leisurely visits.

For entrepreneurs passionate about artisanal food and beverage concepts, Pitango Gelato offers the opportunity to own a business that stands out in the competitive dessert market. Franchise owners benefit from a proven business model that combines product excellence with strong operational systems. The brand's dedication to quality and authenticity resonates particularly well with health-conscious consumers and food enthusiasts seeking premium experiences.

With its established presence in select markets, Pitango Gelato demonstrates the enduring appeal of authentic, high-quality gelato in the American dessert landscape, making it an attractive opportunity for those looking to bring a touch of Italian sophistication to their local community.
  • Premium investment positioning in coffee & tea subsector
  • 71% above-average revenue performance vs subsector
  • Established brand with 17+ years of operation since 2007
  • Specialized artisanal gelato concept differentiation
  • Limited franchise footprint offering territorial opportunities
  • Strong unit economics with $525K+ gross revenue potential

Location Analysis

Where Pitango Gelato wins

Pitango Gelato, established in 2007, maintains a select number of company-owned locations but has not yet expanded into franchising. The brand's current footprint is concentrated in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area, where it has built a reputation for authentic Italian gelato and coffee offerings. While the franchise program is in its early stages, this presents a unique opportunity for early adopters to establish strong market positions in untapped territories.

Ideal locations for Pitango Gelato franchises should target high-foot-traffic urban areas and upscale shopping districts with demographics that appreciate premium dessert offerings. Key success factors include proximity to office complexes, universities, and cultural attractions, with particular emphasis on areas showing strong appreciation for artisanal food concepts. Target demographics should include young professionals, students, and families with above-average disposable income.

Prime expansion opportunities exist in major metropolitan areas along the East Coast, particularly in markets with similar characteristics to the brand's successful company-owned locations. Potential franchisees should focus on areas with a demonstrated appetite for premium dessert concepts and European-style café culture. Weather patterns should also be considered, with indoor seating and product diversification strategies important for maintaining year-round revenue in colder climates.
Total US locations
5
Franchise units
N/A
Corporate locations
5
Avg. sq. footage
N/A
Territory check

Is your territory available?

We'll take you through a few quick questions, then Pitango Gelato confirms availability directly.

try
Availability

Financial Analysis

The numbers behind Pitango Gelato

Avg gross revenue$525,727
Investment range$391,350 – $696,800
Investment midpoint$544,075
Brand fund1.5%/wk
Royalty5%/wk
Franchise fee$35,000
Min. net worth
Min. liquid capital
Pitango Gelato requires an investment range of $391,350 to $696,800, positioning it as a premium entry in the Food & Beverage industry's coffee and tea sub-sector where averages span $296,954 to $610,306. This 14% higher maximum investment reflects the specialized nature of artisanal gelato operations and premium positioning within the broader beverage category.

The reported gross revenue of $525,727 substantially exceeds the sub-sector average of $307,288 by 71%, demonstrating strong unit-level performance despite the higher capital requirements. However, with only 5 units operating since establishment in 2007, the franchise represents a boutique system with limited scale compared to the 77 franchises in the coffee and tea sub-sector.

The gelato segment benefits from premium positioning in the frozen dessert market, though seasonal revenue fluctuations and operational complexity requiring specialized equipment present unique considerations.

Ideal investors should possess substantial liquid capital given the premium investment level, food service experience, and commitment to maintaining quality standards. The limited franchise footprint may offer territorial advantages but also indicates smaller franchisor infrastructure compared to larger systems.

Prospective franchisees must evaluate the franchisor's support capabilities given the small system size and assess local market demand for premium gelato products before proceeding with this higher-investment opportunity.
Did you know? Starting your own Pitango Gelato franchise - known for their authentic Italian gelato made fresh daily with premium ingredients - requires a total investment between $391,350 and $696,800, which includes the $35,000 franchise fee plus all equipment, buildout, and working capital needed to bring this artisanal gelato experience to your community.

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

Lender

CRF USA

Nonprofit SBA lender; provides financing for franchise acquisitions, startups, and expansion.

Lender

First Bank of the Lake

Lender

Pension Pros

Lender

FDD Item 7

Initial investment range

$391K–$697K
Most common
$391,350
Minimum
$544,075
Midpoint
$696,800
Maximum

Per FDD Item 7, total initial investment ranges from $391,350 to $696,800. The midpoint $544,075 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

$600K$480K$360K$240K$120KN/A
$309K
$526K
2021
2022
2023
Avg
$278K
YOY change (2022 -> 2023)
+70%

According to Item 19 of the Franchise Disclosure Document, Pitango Gelato has an average gross revenue of $526K. (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

0% YoY
654210
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
5 units open as of 2023 FDD

2023 Franchise Disclosure

FDD documents

Below are items 2, 3, 4, 7, 11 and 19 for Pitango Gelato's 2023 FDD. The complete FDD is delivered to you directly by the franchisor, per the FTC Franchise Rule.

Estimated initial investment
FDD Item 7 · PDF
Financial performance representations
FDD Item 19 · PDF
Members-only items
Executive team
FDD Item 2 · PDF
Litigation
FDD Item 3 · PDF
Bankruptcy
FDD Item 4 · PDF
Franchisor assistance
FDD Item 11 · PDF
Members only
Unlock the 2023 FDD

Connect to download Items 2, 3, 4, and 11 — direct from the franchisor.

Buyer FAQs

Frequently asked questions

The initial investment for a Pitango Gelato franchise typically ranges between $391,350.00 and $696,800.00. 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 2023. 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.

Pitango Gelato
Pitango Gelato
$526K avg revenue · 0+ US franchises

Franchises for you

Other brands in the same vertical and investment band — recommendations based on what you've explored.

Spotlight

Franchisor Image
Franzy Verified

Lee's Famous Recipe Chicken

Food & Beverage

Gross Revenue$2,172,042
Min Investment$850,000
Founded1966
Franchise Units94+

Spotlight

Franchisor Image
Franzy Verified

Frios Gourmet Pops

Food & Beverage

Gross RevenueN/A
Min Investment$64,584
Founded2018
Franchise Units115+
Franchisor Image
Franzy Verified

Clusters Handcrafted Popcorn

Food & Beverage

Gross Revenue$274,576
Min Investment$170,800
Founded2017
Franchise Units5+
Franchisor Image
Franzy Verified

Tea Bar - Mobile Unit

Food & Beverage

Gross RevenueN/A
Min Investment$95,000
Founded2014
Franchise UnitsN/A
Franchisor Image
Franzy Verified

Tea Bar

Food & Beverage

Gross RevenueN/A
Min Investment$266,037
Founded2014
Franchise UnitsN/A
Franchisor Image
Franzy Verified

3Natives Acai Cafe

Food & Beverage

Gross Revenue$947,071
Min Investment$310,000
Founded2013
Franchise Units42+
Franchisor Image
Franzy Verified

Goodness Bowls

Food & Beverage

Gross RevenueN/A
Min Investment$325,119
Founded2019
Franchise Units5+
Franchisor Image
Franzy Verified

Breadless

Food & Beverage

Gross RevenueN/A
Min Investment$439,202
Founded2025
Franchise UnitsN/A