Over the past four decades, Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard has become a household name. With 550-plus locations worldwide, Rita’s recipe for success is in its simplistic business model that empowers franchisees to launch and grow their business. By Shelby Green
Since its beginning on a front porch outside of Philadelphia in 1984, Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard has grown into the largest Italian ice chain in the world and has put smiles on the faces of customers and franchisees at more than 550 locations in 31 states. By Patty Horansky
Sometimes, businesses that have been around for a long time enter into a state of complacency, believing that whatever is being done is working and, therefore, shouldn’t change. By Brianna Bohn
Established in 1984, Rita’s Ice has been in the happiness business for over 35 years. Rita’s offers delicious and unique products of Italian ice and frozen custard with a fun mix-and-match menu that lets guests create their own desserts. By Cindy Charette
My Rita’s story is a bit unique. I started as a treat team member, scooping Rita’s Ice at the very first location 18 years ago. Rita’s daughter (yes, the Rita!) gave me my first job back in high school. By Cindy Charette
With the goal of starting her own business, Debbie Pierce took a leap of faith when she left her 17-year Vanguard career with only two years left until retirement. “I felt like I needed a change in my life and that God was definitely pulling me in a different direction,” Pierce said. By Cindy Charette
When fans see the iconic red and white stripes behind the Rita’s name, whether they’re at a baseball stadium, boardwalk or friendly neighborhood corner, they know they’ll see long lines of eager customers, too. These happy guests (more like cult followers) can’t wait to get some of this delectable frozen heaven. By Lizzy Yeserski