Since the first Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard opened in 1984, the brand has been helping aspiring entrepreneurs achieve their dreams of owning their own businesses. But, for many of its franchisees, Rita’s is more than just a business; it’s a life-changing opportunity. By Shelby Green
Since the first Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard opened in 1984, the brand has been helping aspiring entrepreneurs achieve their dreams of owning their own businesses. But, for many of its franchisees, Rita’s is more than just a business; it’s a life-changing opportunity.
Hilda Alfano came to the mainland U.S. from Puerto Rico at 18 to make a better life for herself. With just $40 in her pocket when she arrived, she eventually taught herself English and landed a job at a toy factory. However, Alfano realized she wanted more.
After 15 years of working for others, Alfano decided that she wanted to start her own business, so she began looking for one to buy. During her search, she discovered a Rita’s location in New Jersey that was up for sale. She purchased it with her life savings, and the rest is history.
Since 2003, Alfano has turned the once-underperforming location into a powerhouse and has garnered many awards, including Rookie of the Year in 2004. The awards and recognition are just the cherry on top for Alfano, who cites her team as the greatest representation of her success.
“I learned so much by listening to my employees,” Alfano said in an interview with Nation’s Restaurant News. “I got new employees that were like my family members. Today, I have many of the same employees that were here 15 to 20 years ago.”
The iconic brand’s revenue model makes it easy for individuals like Alfano to succeed. With low labor and product costs, franchisees can yield strong margins. Additionally, Rita’s makes it easy for owners to scale their businesses, providing several location options, including a traditional storefront, concession trailers and mobile carts.
With locations in 31 states, Rita’s continues expanding its family by adding passionate and caring individuals, like Alfano, to its network of franchisees.
Shelby Green