RITA’S FRANCHISE COMPANY Ice-Custard-Happiness By: Leah Burkey

History  Rita’s was founded in 1984 by Bob Tumolo.  Bob named the business after his wife.  Bob and his mother created the recipe.  His first store was opened in Bensalem, Pennsylvania.  The water ice was a huge hit in Philadelphia.

History  Bob and his brother, John, opened 3 more stores in the Philadelphia area in 1987 because of the popularity and increasing demand. But, customers wanted to own their own Rita’s.

History  In 1989, Bob began franchising the business.  By 1996, there were over 100 stores in 9 different states.  In May of 2005, Rita’s was sold to McKnight Capital Partners.  In 2007, Rita’s opened its 500th location in Mooresville, North Carolina.  The 25th anniversary was in  In December of 2011, a controlling interest in Rita’s was sold to Falconhead Capital, LLC.

Products  Italian Ice  Cream Ice  Sugar-Free Italian Ice  Custard  Gelati  Misto  Blendini  Milkshakes  Frozen Custard Cakes  Custard Cookie Sandwiches

Company  The ideal multi-unit developer should possess a minimum $750k net worth and $250k minimum liquid.  The ideal single unit developer should possess a minimum $300k net worth and $100k in liquid.  No information on startup fee/financial commitments/franchisor providing for the fee.

Company  Rita’s has more than 500 stores in 17 states.  They are number 76 in the top 100 franchises.  Rita’s is seeking franchisees for developing in primary and secondary markets.  They are also seeking well-capitalized, experienced candidates for area development to continue their expansion throughout the United States.

Company Rita’s has a Partnership with Alex’s Lemonade Stand.  This past June, they raised $545,000 for ALSF.  Rita's remained the foundation's largest corporate donor.  Five year total for exceeding $3 million.

Franchises 1. Complete Rita’s Confidential Application. 2. Review Rita’s Franchise Disclosure Document “FDD”. 3. Complete due diligence –speak with existing franchisees. 4. Participate in an operational interview with Rita’s Franchise Service Manager. 5. Participate on a call with Rita’s Senior VP of Franchise Sales to discuss selection process/timeline. 6. Attend discovery day, meet Rita’s franchise selection committee and determine franchise award. 7. Sign franchise agreements. After signing your franchise agreement, our experienced team of real estate and development professionals begin working with you one on one. 8. Begin site selection and negotiate your lease. 9. Begin construction and conduct employee training. 10. Open your store and plan your grand opening event.

Franchises  The ideal candidate to open a franchise should be committed to excellence and brand building and be dedicated to the community they serve.  Have an entrepreneurial spirit and a desire to build out multi-units is preferred, but single-unit opportunities are available based on market preference.

Works Cited "Rita's Franchise Company - Home." Rita's Franchise Company - Home. Rita's Franchise Company, n.d. Web. 28 Feb "Why Rita's Ice Franchise?" Own A Ritas Franchise. Rita's Franchise Company, n.d. Web. 28 Feb