IceBorn Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs
IceBorn is a franchise that specializes in water and ice vending. It was founded in 2003 by Ice House America, headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida. The company introduced the IceBorn franchise in 2012 to capitalize on the rising demand for on-site, fresh, and purified ice and water vending solutions.
The franchise’s machines operate 24/7 and are entirely automated, allowing owners to manage the business without needing employees. This makes it a great option for entrepreneurs looking for a low-maintenance and semi-passive business model.
IceBorn offers three types of vending machines—Express, Kiosk, and House—tailored to different space and production needs. These machines feature a proprietary filtration system, ensuring customers receive high-quality, fresh ice and water. With over 3,300 units in operation across the U.S., IceBorn continues to expand and offer franchising opportunities nationwide.
Franchisees benefit from IceBorn’s support, including help with site selection, marketing, and technical training.
The company also provides a remote management system, SmartIce™, allowing franchisees to monitor and control their machines remotely. This ease of operation and scalability makes IceBorn an attractive franchise for those seeking flexibility in managing their investment.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a IceBorn franchise? It costs on average between $27,095 to $213,500 to start a IceBorn franchised business.
This includes costs for equipment, franchise fees, site preparation, and initial operating expenses.
The exact amount depends on various factors, including the type of vending machine model chosen (Express, Kiosk, or House), the size of the location, and the number of units the franchisee decides to operate.
For example, this compares to $90,000 – $223,000 initial investment for a Happy & Healthy Products franchise, another leading vending machine franchise brand.
Average Revenue (AUV)
How much revenue can you make with a IceBorn franchise? A IceBorn franchised business makes on average $15,000 to $60,000 per machine annually.
The actual AUV for each machine may vary based on factors such as machine placement, traffic volume, and operational efficiency. To get a more precise understanding of potential earnings, prospective franchisees may need to contact the franchisor directly for detailed financial disclosures.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much can a IceBorn franchise owner expect to earn?
The average gross sales for a IceBorn franchise are approximately $60,000 per machine. Assuming a 15% operating profit margin, $60,000 per machine yearly revenue can result in $9,000 operating profit annually for one single machine.
What funding options are available for a IceBorn franchise?
Most franchise buyers in IceBorn’s investment range finance their unit through an SBA 7(a) loan, with some multi-unit operators using SBA 504 loans for real estate. Buyers with rollable retirement funds sometimes use a ROBS structure to reduce debt service. See SharpSheets’ financial model hub for funding guidance.
How long does it take to pay back a IceBorn franchise investment?
Payback periods for franchises in IceBorn’s category typically run 3-7 years, depending on investment level, location performance, and financing structure. Actual payback varies significantly by unit performance and debt service obligations.
Who owns IceBorn?
ceBorn is owned by Ice House America, a company that pioneered the ice and water vending machine business. Ice House America, headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida, launched the IceBorn franchise in 2012 to capitalize on the growing demand for fresh and on-demand ice and water vending solutions.
SharpSheets Editorial Team | sharpsheets.io | Last Updated: June 2026
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Research Iceborn franchise data: For the full FDD cost breakdown, investment tables, and Item 19 disclosures, visit FranchisePayback.com → Iceborn FDD Review.
