Rita’s Italian Ice, the nation’s largest Italian Ice concept with over 625 outlets in 19 states, has awarded an area franchise development agreement for Orange County, California to Reggie Scales who plans to develop 40 outlets for the brand over six years.
“Rita’s brand is perfect for Orange County and we are proud to welcome Reggie as our newest Area Developer,” says Jonathan Fornaci, chief executive officer of Rita’s.
Recently acquired by Falconhead Capital LLC in New York, Rita’s Italian Ice has been aggressively expanding in its core markets in the U.S. as well as internationally. In April, Rita’s Italian Ice announced it had awarded area rights to part of Los Angeles County and has recently opened a West coast office to support its growth in California.
“Rita’s has carved a niche in the frozen dessert space like no other,” says Reggie Scales, area developer of Rita’s Italian Ice Orange County. “California is the next logical frontier, and I’m excited to pioneer Rita’s shift to Orange County, California. This will be the next gold rush but for your taste buds,” he says.
Scales grew up in Maryland and was introduced to Rita’s by a close friend over 15 years ago. Trips to Rita’s became a Scales family staple after having children and became the place to stop before or after family outings. Having moved to California in 2004, Scales was amazed that Rita’s hadn’t made it out to the West, and decided to bring the popular ice treat to Orange County.
Candidates interested in opening a Rita’s Italian Ice should possess a passion for the brand and serving guests and families in their community in a fast-paced environment. Franchisees are required to demonstrate a minimum of $250,000 in liquid capital, a net worth of $750,000, and a credit score of 700 or better. Rita’s seasoned executives provide an unparalleled level of support. Qualified franchisees benefit from a 28-year-old brand which is a predictable, measurable, and sustainable investment opportunity.
The company is actively seeking area development agreements and multiple-unit operators throughout California, Arizona, Nevada, Texas, Florida, the Carolinas, and the Northeast, and single unit franchisees in the mid-Atlantic region. Rita’s is also actively pursuing major international markets across several continents.
