Gofer Ice Cream Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)
Gofer Ice Cream is a family-operated franchise that has built its reputation on delivering a welcoming, community-first experience within the frozen dessert market.
Established in 2003 by Jay Ragusa in Greenwich, Connecticut, the concept quickly grew into a regional favorite, now serving customers across multiple Fairfield County towns such as Stamford, Cos Cob, Wilton, and Darien.
The company, headquartered in Stamford, Connecticut, launched its franchising arm in 2006 under Gofer Franchise Systems LLC. Since then, the brand has expanded steadily, driven by a straightforward business model that emphasizes quality products, neighborhood appeal, and ease of operation.
Gofer’s menu features a wide range of frozen treats, including premium hand-dipped and soft-serve ice cream, Italian ice, smoothies, and a variety of plant-based or fat-free selections. Among its standout offerings are Razzles, which have become a signature favorite among loyal customers.
What truly sets Gofer Ice Cream apart is its ability to balance old-fashioned ice cream shop nostalgia with modern innovations.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a Gofer Ice Cream franchise? It costs on average between $234,000 – $434,000 to start a Gofer Ice Cream franchised facility.
This includes expenses for construction, equipment, inventory, and initial operating costs. The total investment can vary based on several factors, such as the size and design of the ice cream shop, its location, and whether the franchisee decides to lease or buy the property.
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $25,000 |
| Leasehold Improvements | $80,000 to $205,000 |
| Furniture, Fixtures and Equipment | $94,000 to $115,000 |
| Office Equipment, Computer and Supplies | $250 to $1,000 |
| POS System Hardware and Software | $2,000 to $2,500 |
| Signage | $4,500 to $6,000 |
| Blue Prints, Business Licenses & Permits | $4,000 to $8,000 |
| Professional Fees | $3,000 to $6,500 |
| Rent (Per Month) | $3,000 to $6,000 |
| Initial Inventory of Food and Paper Supplies | $2,500 to $4,000 |
| Security Deposits | $6,000 to $16,500 |
| Insurance (Per Month) | $500 to $800 |
| Grand Opening Advertising | $1,000 to $2,000 |
| Training Expenses | $3,000 to $5,000 |
| Uniforms | $250 to $500 |
| Additional Funds (for initial operations) | $5,000 to $30,000 |
| Total Estimated Initial Investment | $234,000 to $433,800 |
Average Revenue (AUV)
How much revenue can you make with a Gofer Ice Cream franchise? A Gofer Ice Cream franchised restaurant makes on average $341,000 in revenue (AUV) per year.
Here is the extract from the Franchise Disclosure Document:
Download the Franchise Disclosure Document
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Gofer Ice Cream locations are there?
As of the most recent data, Gofer Ice Cream operates a total of eight locations, with five of them being franchise-owned.
What is the total investment required to open a Gofer Ice Cream franchise?
The total investment required to open a Gofer Ice Cream franchise ranges from $234,000 to $434,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a Gofer Ice Cream franchise?
A Gofer Ice Cream franchise requires ongoing payments that include a royalty fee of 5% of gross sales and a marketing and advertising contribution ranging from 1% to 2% of gross sales. These fees support the franchisor’s continued brand development, operational support, and system-wide marketing efforts while ensuring franchisees benefit from collective advertising campaigns and brand recognition.
What are the financial requirements to become a Gofer Ice Cream franchisee?
Prospective Gofer Ice Cream franchisees must meet specific financial criteria before moving forward. They are required to have a minimum liquid capital of $50,000 available in immediately accessible funds. Additionally, a minimum net worth of $250,000 is expected to demonstrate overall financial stability.
How much can a Gofer Ice Cream franchise owner expect to earn?
The average gross sales for a Gofer Ice Cream franchise are approximately $0.34 million per location. Assuming a 15% operating profit margin, $0.34 million yearly revenue can result in $51,000 EBITDA annually.
Who owns Gofer Ice Cream?
The Gofer Ice Cream franchise is owned by Gofer Franchise Systems LLC, a company founded by Jay Ragusa, who established the brand in 2003 in Greenwich, Connecticut.
Disclaimer
Disclaimer: This content has been made for informational and educational purposes only. We do not make any representation or warranties with respect to the accuracy, applicability, fitness, or completeness of the information presented in the article. You should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other professional advice. Nothing contained in this article constitutes a solicitation, recommendation, endorsement, advertisement, or offer to buy or sell any franchises, securities, or other financial instruments in this or in any other jurisdiction in which such solicitation or offer would be unlawful under the franchise and/or securities laws of such jurisdiction.
All content in this article is information of a general nature and does not address the detailed circumstances of any particular individual or entity. Nothing in the article constitutes professional and/or financial and/or legal advice, nor does any information in the article constitute a comprehensive or complete statement of the matters discussed or the law relating thereto. You alone assume the sole responsibility of evaluating the merits and risks associated with the use of any information or other content in this article before making any decisions based on such information or other content.
