Cold Rock Ice Creamery is expanding its already booming franchise business of 100 stores, by looking to add 10 more in regional Victoria.
Over the next 18 months, the Franchised Food Company (FFCo) will be searching for new franchise owners to make its expansion goal a reality.
FFCo Managing Director Stan Gordon said the move to regional areas such as Warrnambool, Echuca, Torquay and Swan Hill is due to the high performance level of other regional stores in Victoria.
“Our research also shows our regional customers travel long distances to get to a Cold Rock store, and we believe people shouldn’t have to leave the countryside to get a taste of the city,” he said.
Since the first store opening in 1996, Cold Rock Ice Creamery has lived up to its reputation by allowing customers to choose an assortment of “mix-ins” to be smashed together with ice cream on a refrigerated granite slab know as the Cold Rock.
The mixture of chocolate, fruit, nuts and lollies with ice cream has ensured a steady stream of customers for the business, which should appeal to new franchise owners.
“Even though we’ve seen customers tighten their belts they are leaving room for ice cream,” Gordon said.
The recent print, radio and online recruitment campaigns are targeted to potential franchise owners looking to work in a fun, simple and contemporary business with a large support system. Even in uncertain economic times, Gordon acknowledges Cold Rock as a strong business proposition.
“Our research has shown when times get tough people spend more on treats to keep their spirits up. A trip to the movies with the family may be outside the budget but ice cream is still on of life’s affordable pleasures,” he said.
With a large amount of enquiries, Gordon believes there is plenty of demand to meet the future expansion. Many of the regional sites are simply looking for the right people to lead.
