Franchise Deep Dive: Kona Ice Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data

Kona Ice is a mobile, shaved ice concept with a simple operational model that allows franchisees to ramp up quickly and start attending local events.

By Morgan Wood1851 Franchise Contributor

10:10AM • 08/23/23

LAST UPDATED: August 2023

FRANCHISE WEBSITE: https://www.ownakona.com/

NUMBER OF LOCATIONS: 800+

REPORTED COST TO GET IN: $160,725

REPORTED ROI (Item 19): Not disclosed

Kona Ice, the shaved ice concept with over 800 trucks on the road, brings the deserted beach experience wherever it goes. With a colorful van, on-theme music and a host of shaved ice flavorings, Kona Ice makes an impression and serves as a leveled-up ice cream truck of sorts.

Because the business is fully mobile and the branding is memorable, franchisees are able to ramp up quickly and draw in business at community gatherings. This simple operational process allows the owner to focus more attention on growing the business and booking more events.

How Many Kona Ice Locations Are There?

While Kona Ice does not have any physical locations established, it does have over 800 shaved ice trucks on the road throughout the country. Kona Ice franchise owners can be booked for events and are automatically advertising the brand as they drive between jobs. In addition to its standard food truck model, Kona Ice offers the Kona Kiosk, Kona Mini, Kona Trailer and KEV 2.0, which allow owners to further diversify their business.

What Is the Kona Ice Business Model?

Kona Ice is a shaved ice concept that offers a refreshed version of an old school ice cream truck. The brand’s proprietary Flavorwave® model allows operators to hand an unflavored shaved ice cup out of the truck to the guest, who uses a range of flavorings to customize their treat.

Kona Ice’s Kreations Flavoring products have fruit as the first ingredient, are fortified with vitamins and sweetened only with pure cane sugar or all-natural stevia leaf extract. With this and the clean, welcoming Kona trucks, the brand is working to provide a treat for kids and their parents alike.

“The truck sells itself,” the website says. “All you have to do is keep it clean and keep it seen. Customers will be drawn in, and the experience will keep them coming back again and again.”

How Much Can Kona Ice Franchise Owners Make?

Earnings can vary greatly for this mobile franchise, depending on factors such as location and management. According to the website, the initial inventory pack supports revenue generation of approximately $50,000. Potential franchisees should also carefully review the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) and speak with existing franchisees to better understand the potential financial performance.

How Much Does It Cost To Open a Kona Ice?

Kona Ice reports an initial investment of $160,735. This is broken down into three major categories:

Franchise Fee: $15,000
Inventory Pack: $6,475
Truck: $139,250

A $20,000 deposit is required; $15,000 will cover the franchise fee, and $5,000 will be used as a down payment on the truck.

What Is the Franchise Fee for Kona Ice?

The initial franchise fee for Kona Ice is $15,000. The brand’s website reports that the franchise fee covers the cost of corporate support and access to marketing materials.

Who Is the Leadership of Kona Ice?

What Helpful Articles Can I Read To Learn More?

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only. You should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial or other advice. Nothing contained on this site constitutes a solicitation, recommendation, endorsement, 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 advice, nor does any information in the email 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.