Hokulia Shave Ice Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)
Hokulia Shave Ice is a dessert franchise that brings the authentic flavors and laid-back spirit of Hawaii’s shave ice to customers across the mainland United States. The concept started in 2009 with a small shave-ice stand in Provo, Utah, and the brand now operates from its headquarters in Lehi, Utah.
Its goal is to recreate the tropical island experience through finely shaved ice and vibrant, fruit-inspired flavors.
The company started franchising in 2012 and has since grown through multiple formats, including mobile kiosks, drive-thru units, and traditional inline stores. Hokulia’s diverse menu features over 50 Hawaiian-style syrups, real-fruit smoothies, and premium ice cream options.
Hokulia stands out in the frozen dessert industry thanks to its ultra-fine, snow-like ice texture that perfectly absorbs its flavorful syrups. This attention to texture and authenticity gives customers a refreshing, true-to-Hawaii experience unlike typical snow cones or standard shaved-ice treats.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a Hokulia Shave Ice franchise? It costs on average between $86,000 – $930,000 to start a Hokulia Shave Ice franchised location.
This includes expenses related to build-out, equipment, inventory, and startup operations. The total investment can vary based on several factors, such as the format of the Hokulia Shave Ice location (mobile unit, drive-thru, or inline store), the market area, and whether the franchisee decides to lease or own the property. Hokulia Shave Ice offers 2 types of franchises:
| Type of Hokulia® Franchise | Initial Investment Range |
|---|---|
| Seasonal Mobile Kiosk | $86,200 – $205,250 |
| Year-Round Drive-Thru or Brick-and-Mortar Storefront | $382,800 – $930,000 |
We are summarizing below the main costs associated with opening a Drive-Thru or Brick and Mortar Hokulia Shave Ice franchise. For more information on costs required to start a Hokulia Shave Ice franchise, refer to the Franchise Disclosure Document (Item 7).
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $30,000 |
| Travel and Living Expenses While Training | $500 – $3,500 |
| Construction Costs (not including real estate lease or purchase) | $235,000 – $600,000 |
| Equipment and Small Wares | $85,000 – $150,000 |
| Signs | $15,000 – $50,000 |
| Grand Opening Marketing | $2,500 |
| Misc. Opening Costs (including deposits, licenses, and fees) | $2,300 – $20,000 |
| Opening Inventory | $7,000 – $14,000 |
| Marketing – 3 Months | $500 – $10,000 |
| Additional Funds – 3 Months | $5,000 – $50,000 |
| Total | $382,800 – $930,000 |
Download the Franchise Disclosure Document
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Hokulia Shave Ice locations are there?
As of the latest data, Hokulia Shave Ice operates 52 locations across the United States.
What is the total investment required to open a Hokulia Shave Ice franchise?
The total investment required to open a Hokulia Shave Ice franchise ranges from $86,000 to $930,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a Hokulia Shave Ice franchise?
Hokulia Shave Ice franchisees pay an ongoing royalty fee of 6% of gross sales. They are also required to contribute around 2% of gross sales to the system’s advertising and marketing fund, which supports brand-wide promotional activities and marketing initiatives.
Who owns Hokulia Shave Ice?
Hokulia Shave Ice is owned by founders Clint Severson and Stefani Severson; they launched the first location in Provo, Utah in 2009 and began franchising the brand in 2012.
Disclaimer
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