I Scream Gelato is a boutique dessert franchise specializing in authentic Italian gelato made fresh daily. The brand was founded in 2018 in Breckenridge, Colorado, where it opened its first location and built its early customer base.

It is headquartered in Colorado and later expanded its footprint across states such as Florida, Texas, and Ohio. The company began franchising in 2022.

The franchise focuses on handcrafted gelato made from ingredients sourced directly from Italy. Its menu includes artisan gelato, milkshakes, waffle cones, gelato brioche sandwiches, and espresso-based beverages.

The brand also offers rotating flavors, vegan options, and alcohol-infused selections.

I Scream Gelato stands out by combining Italian gelato craftsmanship with a modern, café-style environment. Its shops feature a playful and social atmosphere designed to appeal to both tourists and local communities.

Training

I Scream Gelato provides an extensive training program to ensure franchisees are prepared to operate in alignment with brand standards and operational protocols.

1. Initial Training Program: The franchisor offers training to the Principal Executive and up to two additional team members at their headquarters or a designated I Scream Gelato business location. There is no fee for this training, but the franchisee is responsible for travel and lodging expenses. Completion of this training, including passing a final test, is mandatory at least four weeks before the business opens.
2. Training Format and Content: Training is led by experienced franchisor staff or designated corporate employees and includes a mix of in-person, remote, and self-directed components. Materials consist of an Onboarding Checklist, training videos, learning assessments, and a coaching checklist. A minimum passing score is required for successful completion.
3. Post-Opening and Ongoing Training: The franchisor may require additional training for new general managers or employees, typically at a cost of $350 per day. Attendance at future training sessions and regional or national conferences may also be required. The Principal Executive must complete any new post-opening training developed by the franchisor to remain in compliance.

Territory Protection

I Scream Gelato offers its franchisees an exclusive territory, within which the franchisor agrees not to establish another company-owned or franchised location using the same or similar trademarks.

This exclusivity ensures that franchisees are protected from internal brand competition within their assigned area. The designated territory typically includes a population of 50,000–100,000 and may be defined by radius or geographic boundaries.

Despite this protection, the franchisor retains the right to use other sales channels—such as online platforms, catalogs, and telemarketing—even within the protected territory.