Not only was July National Ice Cream Month and Bruster’s Real Ice Cream’s 31st anniversary, but it also turned out to be an unforgettable business coup with the brand exceeding expectations in many ways. Thanks to the completion of double-digit new franchise agreements, company-high sales and morale on the upswing, the company has carved an entirely different path from its competitors. One of growth. Of opportunity.
This summer, Bruster’s dynamic trio of franchise development leaders with decades of combined support experience, sold 12 new franchise agreements, nearly 2.5x more from the same time period in 2019. Coinciding with this achievement, Bruster’s also received national distinction and continues to fortify its position as an award-winning franchise option.
“Most of our new agreements are with existing franchisees. The passion, dedication and commitment to the Bruster’s brand these owners display is unmatched,” says Kim Ellis, VP, Franchise Development and Legal. “This also demonstrates the system’s overall brand strength, comprehensive operational support and powerful marketing programs. During this difficult time for many, we’re happy to have the opportunity to help others create new memories as part of the Bruster’s family.”
In addition to franchise growth, overall same store sales growth is up 11 percent from 2019. And while this tremendous success is buoying smiles at Bruster’s, the company is also keenly aware of hardships faced domestically and internationally. With many franchise owners facilitating local efforts to help their communities, the overall system is taking it one step further. In early September Bruster’s will announce new giving efforts as part of a national initiative.
“We are grateful to scoop smiles for customers and employ hundreds across our nearly 200 locations during a tumultuous 2020,” Bruster’s CEO Jim Sahene says. “But we also recognize there is more that can be done. We are so proud of our franchise owners leading the way and are eager to facilitate giving at a broader scale.”
Through the end of August Bruster’s is also featuring a taste of the tropics with Jamaican Me Crazy ice cream featuring flavors of coconut, almonds and fudge and ice cold freezes flavored by combining customers’ favorite sherbet, sorbet or Italian ice topped with Sprite. All are invited to stop by to enjoy and grab some pints, quarts or half gallons of freshly made ice cream to take home.
