For the first time in its 22-year history, Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams is inviting entrepreneurs to scoop up franchise opportunities — but the brand is being selective about who gets in.
The Ohio-based ice cream maker, founded by Jeni Britton in 2002, confirmed it will begin recruiting franchisees this fall. The first wave of stores is planned for the Southeastern and Midwestern U.S., regions where Jeni’s already has strong brand recognition and nearly 90 company-operated scoop shops.
A Careful, Quality-First Rollout
Unlike some chains that rush to expand, Jeni’s says it will take a measured approach. Sean Bock, senior advisor of franchising at Jeni’s, told Local press the company plans to focus on the first six to eight franchisees before opening the program more broadly.
“We want to take a methodical approach that emphasizes quality over quantity,” Bock said.
This means franchisees can expect intensive support from Jeni’s corporate team, ensuring that the first locations mirror the standard of existing company-owned shops.
Who Jeni’s Is Looking For
Jeni’s is specifically seeking experienced operators — people who have previously run food franchises and understand the demands of daily restaurant management.
Still, Bock added that the company won’t rule out passionate fans of the brand:
“There’s going to be a small percentage who are going through life right now and saying, ‘I want a change.’”
These career-changers, if aligned with Jeni’s mission and values, could also be among the first franchise owners.
The Cost of Opening a Jeni’s Scoop Shop
Becoming a Jeni’s franchisee won’t be cheap. According to a draft of its franchise disclosure document, the total investment to open a store ranges from:
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$696,000 to $1,265,750
In return, franchisees gain access to a trusted brand, an established menu, and the systems and policies Jeni’s has honed for two decades.
In 2024, the average Jeni’s scoop shop generated $997,027 in annual net sales, underscoring the potential profitability for qualified operators.
More Than Just Ice Cream: Community at the Core
Interim CEO Poe Timmons emphasized that Jeni’s is not only looking for operators who can run a business, but also those who share the company’s community-focused values.
Many of Jeni’s existing shops host fundraisers, collaborate with local organizations, and foster inclusivity. That commitment extends to the supply chain too:
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Jeni’s has long partnered with dairy farmers and suppliers who adhere to its “fellowship model,” which prioritizes fair labor and environmental sustainability.
“We believe it takes a community to create exceptional ice cream,” the company says.
Franchisees will be expected to carry that ethos forward.
A Path for Sustainable Growth
Franchising has always been part of Jeni’s long-term strategy, but leadership stresses it’s not about opening as many shops as possible. Instead, it’s about building a consistent customer experience whether the shop is company-owned or franchised.
Bock made that point clear:
“We want our customers to walk into any Jeni’s and not say, ‘Oh, this is a franchise, or this is a company-owned store.’”
The Bottom Line
With nearly 100 stores already under its belt, Jeni’s is making its biggest strategic move yet — franchising. But rather than chasing rapid expansion, the brand is searching for franchisees who share its values, care about community, and can maintain the quality that has made Jeni’s a national favorite.
For entrepreneurs who love ice cream — and have the operational chops — this could be a once-in-a-lifetime scoop.
