How to Open an Ice Cream Shop

Owning an ice cream shop has been a popular, lucrative business venture for several decades. Ice cream shops stay open in both warm weather and colder climates. If you want a business that is fun to operate and can generate good income, consider opening an ice cream shop.

1. Decide on the type of ice cream to sell. You can choose to sell gelato, frozen yogurt, vegan ice cream or natural ice cream. This will make your ice cream shop stand out from other ice cream stores in your area.


2. Acquire all permits and licenses required by your state. Contact your city or county clerk's office for information on how to apply and obtain the permits and licenses needed to operate an ice cream shop in your state. Also contact the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to apply for your Employer Identification Number. You can contact them by phone, mail or through their website. 


3. Find the best area to locate your ice cream shop. There are many types of locations you can set up an ice cream shop. If you locate your ice cream shop near a beach, you can snag impulse buyers. Another great location for an ice cream shop is at the shopping centers because they have a lot of foot traffic. You can set up a stand-alone shop in an accessible area. Make sure the location you choose is suitable for commercial use and is not in violation of any zoning laws and regulations. Other high traffic areas to consider include schools and parks.


4. Contact ice cream equipment vendors to purchase what you'll need. Determine the supplies and equipment you will need to start your ice cream shop. You will need to buy chairs and tables, cups, scoops, cones, plastic flatware, napkins, ice cream machines, display cases, toppings and ice cream mix. If you don't want to make your own ice cream, then purchase it from an ice cream company like Berliner Specialty Distributors.


5. Schedule for an inspection. Apply to have your state's health department come in and inspect your ice cream store. The purpose of the inspection is to make sure your store is in compliance with the state health guidelines and to see that you have obtained all the permits needed to operate an ice cream shop.


6. Promote your ice cream store. Create a website for your ice cream store. Place advertisements in local newspapers and on online business directories. Distribute coupons to businesses in your neighborhood such as bakeries, pizza parlors, burger stands and movie theaters. Distribute fliers throughout your neighborhood including parks, community centers and laundromats.