The Meadows Original Frozen Custard Franchise FDD, Costs & Fees (2026)

The Meadows Original Frozen Custard is a dessert franchise offering classic frozen custard, shakes and sundaes, serving families and dessert lovers, and known for its long-standing original recipe and franchise footprint in multiple states.

KEY FRANCHISE STATS

Franchisees

21%

Franchise fee

$25,000

Investment

$134,000 - $512,000

Revenue (AUV)

n.a.

The Meadows Original Frozen Custard is a dessert stand concept built around frozen custard and frozen yogurt, served through a classic walk-up style menu. Guests can order frozen custard treats such as sundaes, shakes, and cones, alongside other frozen items offered under The Meadows system.

The brand traces its roots to a small custard stand opened in Duncansville, Pennsylvania by J.V., Richard, and Delbert Meadows, and it has maintained a family-tradition origin story tied to its original custard recipe. The franchise system is operated by The Meadows Franchise Systems, Inc., which does business as The Meadows and The Meadows Original Frozen Custard.

Initial investment

The initial investment required for a The Meadows Original Frozen Custard franchise is $134,000 - $512,000. That is the total cost you would need to finance if you were to start this franchise. These costs are provided by the franchisor in the Franchise Disclosure Document.

Type of Expenditure	Amount
Initial Franchise Fee	$25,000
Real Estate	Variable
Leasehold Improvements, Furnishings, Equipment and Signs	$79,000 to $390,000
Initial Inventory	$10,000 to $15,000
Opening Advertising and Promotions	$1,000 to $5,000
Training Expenses	$1,000 to $5,000
Miscellaneous Opening Costs	$14,000 to $62,000
Additional Funds - Three months	$4,000 to $10,000
Total Estimated Initial Investment	$134,000 to $512,000

Type of Expenditure	Amount
Initial Franchise Fee	$25,000
Real Estate	Variable
Leasehold Improvements, Furnishings, Equipment and Signs	$79,000 to $390,000
Initial Inventory	$10,000 to $15,000
Opening Advertising and Promotions	$1,000 to $5,000
Training Expenses	$1,000 to $5,000
Miscellaneous Opening Costs	$14,000 to $62,000
Additional Funds - Three months	$4,000 to $10,000
Total Estimated Initial Investment	$134,000 to $512,000

Franchise Disclosure Document

Below is The Meadows Original Frozen Custard's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document. Upgrade to Pro or purchase the FDD to view and download the document.