Gofer Ice Cream is a family-owned franchise known for bringing a fresh, community-centered approach to the frozen dessert industry. Founded in 2003 by Jay Ragusa in Greenwich, Connecticut, the brand has developed into a beloved regional favorite with several locations throughout Fairfield County, including Stamford, Cos Cob, Wilton, and Darien.
Headquartered in Stamford, Connecticut, Gofer began franchising in 2006 under Gofer Franchise Systems LLC and has since steadily expanded by offering a proven business model rooted in quality, local charm, and simplicity.
The franchise specializes in premium hand-dipped and soft-serve ice cream, smoothies, Italian ice, and plant-based or fat-free alternatives. Signature menu items such as Razzles highlight the brand’s creativity and customer appeal.
What differentiates Gofer Ice Cream from its competitors is its blend of traditional ice cream shop charm and forward-thinking adaptability. From incorporating plant-based options to offering curbside pickup and online ordering, Gofer meets modern consumer demands while preserving the classic ice cream parlor experience.
Here's what you would need to invest if you were to start this franchise. These costs are provided by the franchisor in the Franchise Disclosure Document.
Gofer Ice Cream provides a structured set of training programs and support services to help franchisees establish and run their ice cream shops effectively. Here is a breakdown of the training provided by the franchisor:
Gofer Ice Cream provides limited territory protection but not exclusivity. Franchisees are granted a defined area, and the franchisor agrees not to open another Gofer Ice Cream Shop within it, as long as the franchisee is not in default.
However, the franchisor may still sell products in that area through other channels like grocery stores, stadiums, or online.
This limited protection also applies under an Area Development Agreement. Franchisees may still face competition from other franchisees or company-owned outlets outside their defined area. No compensation is provided for franchisor sales through alternative distribution channels.
KEY FRANCHISE STATS
All you need to know about this franchise
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Gofer Ice Cream
key competitors in the
Ice Cream
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