Kona Ice, founded by Tony Lamb in 2007, is a dynamic and rapidly expanding franchise known for its mobile Hawaiian-style shaved ice trucks. Headquartered in Florence, Kentucky, the company began franchising in 2008.

Since then, Kona Ice has grown significantly across the United States, offering a unique twist on the traditional ice cream truck with its shaved ice and a wide array of flavors delivered through the patented Flavorwave® system.

Kona Ice offers a quick and straightforward startup process, enabling aspiring entrepreneurs to swiftly realize their business ambitions.

The franchise is deeply committed to community engagement, allowing franchisees to make meaningful contributions to their local areas through various giveback programs. This community focus not only enhances the brand’s appeal but also fosters widespread recognition and respect in the communities it serves.

Training 

The franchisor provides a variety of training programs for Kona Ice franchisees, ensuring both initial and ongoing education to support the successful operation of the franchise. Here’s an overview of the training provided:

Initial Training Kona Kollege: Before opening a Kona Ice franchise, the Managing Owner and any designated manager or representative required by the franchisor must complete this comprehensive training program.

Kona Kollege covers all essential aspects of operating a Kona Ice franchise, including the use and maintenance of the Kona Entertainment Vehicle (KEV) and its equipment, sales techniques, customer service, and operational protocols. The initial training is provided at no cost for one attendee, with hotel and airfare covered for one attendee. Additional participants can attend for a fee.

Training Program: This initial training consists of both classroom instruction and hands-on training at the franchisor's corporate office. Key topics include KEV & Equipment Operation and Maintenance, Field Sales, and Customer Service.

Ongoing Training The franchisor may periodically require franchisees, their managers, and other employees to attend refresher or additional training courses, which may be optional or mandatory.

This includes training for newly-hired personnel on the Kona Ice brand and System Standards through the learning management system, as well as courses on new operational procedures, products, or services. Additional fees may apply for this training.‍

Territory Protection

The franchisor provides territory protection to Kona Ice franchisees by granting them a "Protected Territory," defined by one or more adjacent zip codes. Franchisees are permitted to directly advertise and solicit clients only within their Protected Territory unless they receive approval from the franchisor.

During the term of the Franchise Agreement, and as long as the franchisee is not in default, the franchisor and its affiliates will not operate or grant a franchise for a similar or competitive business within the Protected Territory.

The franchisee has the exclusive right to operate the Kona Ice business within their Protected Territory under the terms of the Franchise Agreement, while the franchisor and its affiliates reserve all other rights.