Repicci’s Real Italian Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)
Repicci’s Real Italian is a mobile dessert franchise known for serving authentic Italian ice, gelato, roasted coffee, hot chocolate, and specialty teas. The brand’s story began in 1911 when Dominic Francesco Repicci arrived from Messina, Italy, bringing his family’s traditional Italian ice recipe to South Philadelphia.
The modern company was officially founded in 1998 by Dominic’s grandson, Frank Repici, who launched a manufacturing facility in Tennessee to expand the family tradition on a larger scale.
Repicci’s Franchising LLC started its franchise operations in 2005. What began as a seasonal tent business gradually transitioned into a mobile food-truck model by 2014. The company is now based in Hoover, Alabama, and continues to support franchise owners throughout the United States.
What sets Repicci’s apart is its mobile-first approach. Franchisees can take their dessert offerings directly to customers at festivals, weddings, fairs, and local events. This flexible model helps minimize overhead expenses while allowing owners to reach high-traffic venues and serve authentic Italian treats on the go.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a Repicci’s Real Italian franchise? It costs on average between $84,000 – $173,000 to start a Repicci’s Real Italian franchised restaurant.
This includes costs for the food truck or trailer setup, equipment, initial product inventory, and opening expenses. The total investment varies based on factors such as the vehicle configuration, territory size, and local market conditions.
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $36,000 |
| Travel and Living Expenses | $1,500 – $3,000 |
| Rent or Real Estate | $0 – $2,000 |
| Required Initial Product Purchase | $8,995 |
| Additional Inventory | $1,500 – $2,560 |
| Vehicle and Equipment | $26,000 – $105,500 |
| Tax, Title, Licensing, Freight and Delivery | $2,000 – $3,000 |
| Miscellaneous Opening Costs & Contingency | $2,500 – $3,000 |
| Advertising/Marketing (3 months) | $150 |
| Insurance (3 months) | $750 – $1,000 |
| Computer Equipment and Software/POS | $0 – $1,609 |
| Additional Funds for Initial 3 Months | $5,000 – $6,000 |
| Total | $84,395 – $172,814 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many Repicci’s Real Italian locations are there?
According to the most recent data, Repicci’s Real Italian has 26 franchise units in operation in the United States.
What is the total investment required to open a Repicci’s Real Italian franchise?
The total investment required to open a Repicci’s Real Italian franchise ranges from $84,000 to $173,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a Repicci’s Real Italian franchise?
The ongoing fees for a Repicci’s Real Italian franchise include a flat annual royalty fee of $3,600, which grants franchisees continued access to the brand name, operating systems, and ongoing support.
In addition, franchisees are required to contribute $50 per month toward advertising and marketing efforts, helping promote the brand and drive customer awareness across all markets.
Who owns Repicci’s Real Italian?
Repicci’s Real Italian franchise is owned by Repicci’s Franchising LLC, a company based in Hoover, Alabama.
Disclaimer
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