Ululanis Hawaiian Shave Ice

Ululanis Hawaiian Shave Ice

Information based on 2022 FDD

Food & Beverage · Desserts

Investment min
$162K
Total: $162K–$322K
Avg gross revenue
$149K
Unit-level, 2022
Franchise fee
$23K
Per current disclosure
Royalty
4%
of gross revenue
Locations
1
Franchising since 2016

Description

What is Ululanis Hawaiian Shave Ice?

Ululani's Hawaiian Shave Ice brings an authentic taste of Hawaiian paradise to the mainland, offering a refreshing twist on traditional frozen desserts. Unlike ordinary snow cones, Ululani's creates a uniquely smooth, fluffy ice texture that perfectly absorbs their premium flavored syrups, delivering a melt-in-your-mouth experience that has earned them a devoted following since 2003.

Each Ululani's location captures the essence of Hawaiian culture and hospitality, serving up this iconic island treat with the spirit of 'Aloha.' Their menu features an extensive selection of traditional and innovative flavor combinations, from classic tropical favorites like passion fruit and mango to creative fusion blends. What sets them apart is their commitment to using high-quality, natural ingredients and authentic Hawaiian techniques to create their signature ultra-fine shave ice.

As a franchise owner, you'll be part of a brand that doesn't just sell desserts – you'll be creating memorable experiences and bringing a slice of Hawaiian culture to your community. The business model is designed to thrive in various markets, with operations that can be scaled from traditional storefronts to mobile units for events and festivals. Ululani's provides comprehensive training in their proprietary shaving technique and recipes, along with ongoing support to ensure franchise success.

Perfect for entrepreneurs passionate about quality, customer service, and creating joyful moments, an Ululani's franchise offers a unique opportunity to own a dessert business that stands out in the competitive food and beverage industry. Their proven system and growing brand recognition make this an attractive option for those looking to bring a taste of Hawaii to their local market.
  • Authentic Hawaiian shave ice tradition
  • Lower investment than dessert competitors
  • Unique tropical flavor profiles
  • Seasonal high-margin dessert concept
  • Established 20+ year operating history
  • Niche market with limited competition

Location Analysis

Where Ululanis Hawaiian Shave Ice wins

Ululanis Hawaiian Shave Ice, established in 2003, maintains an established presence in the specialty dessert market with multiple active franchise locations. While current operational data and location-specific information is limited in available records, the brand's Hawaiian-themed concept shows particular potential in warm-weather regions, tourist destinations, and areas with high foot traffic.

Ideal locations should prioritize areas with high disposable income, substantial youth and family demographics, and strong seasonal tourism. Shopping centers, boardwalks, and entertainment districts near beaches or tourist attractions present prime opportunities. The concept is particularly well-suited for locations that can support specialty dessert concepts, especially in regions with demonstrated success in similar Hawaiian or Asian fusion food offerings.

Key location criteria should include: areas with median household incomes above $60,000, significant population density, and proximity to complementary businesses like movie theaters and family entertainment venues. Weather-protected indoor locations in regions with seasonal weather patterns can help maintain consistent year-round revenue.

While specific performance metrics and customer ratings are not currently available in our database, prospective franchisees should conduct thorough market research and due diligence in their target territories, particularly focusing on areas with proven success in premium dessert concepts.
Total US locations
8
Franchise units
1
Corporate locations
7
Avg. sq. footage
N/A
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Financial Analysis

The numbers behind Ululanis Hawaiian Shave Ice

Avg gross revenue$148,835
Investment range$161,975 – $322,475
Investment midpoint$242,225
Brand fund1%
Royalty4%
Franchise fee$22,500
Min. net worth
Min. liquid capital
Ululanis Hawaiian Shave Ice presents an entry-level investment opportunity with total capital requirements ranging from $161,975 to $322,475, positioning it well below the dessert sub-sector averages of $296,855-$591,723. This lower barrier to entry makes it accessible to first-time franchisees and investors with moderate capital availability, though specific liquid capital requirements should be confirmed through the FDD.

The dessert franchise sector benefits from consistent consumer demand for affordable indulgences, with Hawaiian shave ice representing a unique niche within the broader frozen treat market. The concept capitalizes on growing interest in authentic, experiential food offerings and seasonal dessert consumption patterns.

With only 8 units since 2003, the system demonstrates limited scale and slower growth trajectory compared to established dessert franchises. This smaller footprint may indicate either selective expansion or operational challenges, requiring careful evaluation of franchisor support infrastructure and brand recognition capabilities.

The reported gross revenue of $148,835 falls notably below sub-sector averages of $414,337, though this may reflect seasonal business patterns typical of frozen dessert concepts or the system's developing market presence. Prospective investors should thoroughly analyze unit-level economics and seasonal cash flow variations.

Ideal candidates likely include operators comfortable with seasonal fluctuations, limited prior food service experience requirements, and moderate capital availability. The concept may suit markets with warm climates, tourist traffic, or strong Hawaiian cultural connections. Multi-unit development potential appears limited given current system size, suggesting focus on single-unit operations initially.
Did you know? Did you know that bringing the authentic taste of Hawaiian paradise to your community through an Ululanis Hawaiian Shave Ice franchise requires a total investment between $161,975 and $322,475, which includes the $22,500 franchise fee plus all equipment, buildout, and startup costs needed to serve those famous fluffy, flavorful shave ice treats that have made Ululani's a beloved island institution?

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

$162K–$322K
Most common
$161,975
Minimum
$242,225
Midpoint
$322,475
Maximum

Per FDD Item 7, total initial investment ranges from $161,975 to $322,475. The midpoint $242,225 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

$300K$240K$180K$120K$60KN/A
$229K
$149K
2020
2021
2022
Avg
$126K
YOY change (2021 -> 2022)
-35%

According to Item 19 of the Franchise Disclosure Document, Ululanis Hawaiian Shave Ice has an average gross revenue of $149K. (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

+14% YoY
1086420
2016
2017
2018
2019
2020
2021
2022
8 units open as of 2022 FDD+1 in last 12 mo

2022 Franchise Disclosure

FDD documents

Below are items 2, 3, 4, 7, 11 and 19 for Ululanis Hawaiian Shave Ice's 2022 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 2022 FDD

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

Buyer FAQs

Frequently asked questions

The initial investment for a Ululanis Hawaiian Shave Ice franchise typically ranges between $161,975.00 and $322,475.00. 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 2022. 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.

Ululanis Hawaiian Shave Ice
Ululanis Hawaiian Shave Ice
$149K avg revenue · 1+ US franchises

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