The MilkShake Factory is a premium dessert franchise offering handcrafted milkshakes and gourmet chocolates. Founded in 1914 by Greek immigrants Charlie and Orania in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the business began as a small soda fountain and chocolate shop.
In 2003, the fourth generation of the family rebranded it as the MilkShake Factory, and in 2023, the company officially began franchising.
Now headquartered in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the MilkShake Factory features a menu of signature milkshakes made with housemade ice cream, decadent sundaes, dairy-free options, and artisanal chocolates.
The brand sets itself apart with century-old family recipes, top-tier ingredients, and a focus on operational simplicity for franchisees.
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.
The Milkshake Factory offers a robust training program designed to prepare franchisees and their teams for effective operation of the business. The training is composed of several structured components, each addressing different aspects of running a franchise unit.
Milkshake Factory provides territory protection to its franchisees through a designated area called the “Designated Territory.” Once a franchisee secures an approved location, the franchisor defines a surrounding geographic area within which it agrees not to open or authorize another shop using its system and marks, as long as the franchisee remains in compliance.
This area is specified in the franchise agreement and typically includes a two-mile radius or a defined population zone.
However, the protection is limited. The franchisee does not receive an exclusive territory and may face competition from other franchisees, company-owned outlets, or different distribution channels under other brands.
KEY FRANCHISE STATS
All you need to know about this franchise
?
?
?
?
$655,000
?
14.3%
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
Below are some of
Milkshake Factory
key competitors in the
Ice Cream
sector.
4
$60,000
$510,000
$773,000
n.a.
$655,000
$xxx,xxx
69.1%
n.a.
14.3%
n.a.
Winchell's Donut House is a bakery-café franchise offering donuts, pastries, breakfast sandwiches, and coffee, serving morning commuters and late-night guests, and known for classic selections, fresh bakes, and neighborhood convenience.
?
?
Sloan's is an ice cream and sweets franchise offering premium ice creams, chocolates, candy, and bakery items, serving families and dessert lovers, and known for whimsical décor, indulgent flavors, and a playful, imaginative experience.
?
?
Hokulia Shave Ice is a dessert franchise offering authentic Hawaiian shave ice with tropical syrups and add-ons, serving families and event guests, and known for generous portions, beach-inspired branding, and mobile catering flexibility.
?
?
Tifa is a dessert & café franchise offering artisan gelato, chocolates, espressos, pastries, and sweets, serving dessert aficionados and café guests, and known for its warm café atmosphere, handcrafted flavors, and community focus. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
?
?
Ice Cream Emergency is a mobile dessert franchise offering on-demand ice cream trucks or carts serving events, campuses, and neighborhoods, serving dessert lovers of all ages, and known for mobility, event flexibility, and fun branding.
?
?
Repicci’s Real Italian is a dessert franchise offering authentic Italian ice, gelato, and frozen treats, serving families and dessert lovers, and known for real ingredients, regional recipes, and high-quality frozen desserts.
?
?
.png)
