How did you get into the ice cream industry and where did Jack the Dipper all start?

As an entrepreneur I acquired a fudge and chocolate shop in 2018, shortly after that Jack the Dipper came on the market.  We were intrigued by the name and model, the numbers looked pretty good, however we saw great potential in what we could do this brand.  We purchased it in 2019 and went to work expanding the brand and improving the model.  Since this time we have grown from the original 2 locations to 6 locations today.

 

What’s New in the Jack the Dipper Business or in the Franchise Model?

The franchise model is, of course, new.  In the business we are always evolving and creating new offerings. 

 

Where do you See Opportunities or Challenges for the Franchise/Business Moving Forward?

We see tremendous opportunities for growth in the frozen dessert space as evidenced by our growth over the past few years.  We believe we still haven’t reached our full earning potential from our corporate stores.  Our system offers a low barrier to entry and requires to extensive prior experience with ice cream.

 

What is your Goal for the Jack the Dipper Franchise Moving Forward?

Our near term goal moving forward is to place Jack the Dipper Ice Cream Parlors targeting the Southeastern US.  We want to place the brand in markets that exhibit the key customer traits, market demographics and opportunity for new franchise owners to experience the success we have with our corporate stores.  

 

Talk to us About Training and Support, How Do You Deliver with Jack the Dipper?

We have designed an extensive training program that includes classroom and hands on training for new franchisees.  We conduct the initial training in our corporate sites in NC, where franchisees, in addition to classroom, will spend 1 to 2 weeks working in our stores, serving ice cream and making warm waffle cones and interacting with customers.

 

Your most difficult moment at the Franchise Business?

Fortunately we have not had any difficult moments at the franchise as it is launching. 

 

Define the Jack the Dipper Franchise Model:

A. Training and Support Model? 

After initial training as indicated above we will also travel to franchisees location pre-opening and conduct additional training and set up support, attend and assist with launch and continue through the next few days of opening as necessary.  Support is ongoing and our plan is to visit each location at least once annually and always be available via phone or virtual connections.

B. What is the Fee Structure?  

Our fee structure includes a $30,000 initial franchise fee, with an ongoing royalty of 6% of gross sales, plus 1% marketing fee.

C. Territory Definition?  

Territories will determined on a case by case basis with consideration for demographics in particular areas.  We want Jack the Dipper Franchise owners to have areas that are large enough to grow, scale and build their business with room to spare.  

 

What does Your Franchisee Do in the Business Every Day?

If an owner/operator there are many facets to the day-to-day operations.  First and foremost is customer service.  There are pre-designed opening procedures to prepare for the day, including prepping waffle irons, re-stocking ice cream, making waffle batter.  Open your shop and welcome customers, serve ice creams, shakes, sundaes etc.  Throughout the day cleaning and doing dishes until closing time and following the closing procedures, which includes closing register, managing cash deposit, cleaning and prepping ice cream for overnight storage.   When time permits taking stock or inventory items and ordering stock as necessary.

 

Who is the Ideal Franchise Candidate?

Outgoing and/or Entrepreneurial individuals. If owner operator someone who will engage with customers and community.  As well as someone who will follow a proven process.  We like to support military veterans, as they seem to follow a process well.

They do not necessarily need ice cream experience; however, it would help.  We believe someone with good business sense along with willingness to roll up their sleeves and jump in.

 

What Goals Do You Have for the Jack the Dipper Franchise Model in the Future?

Future goals, include growing the brand to be the “go to” ice cream parlor in the short term in the southeast US and then beyond.  Home of the Warm Waffle Cone!

 

For more information on the Jack the Dipper Franchise system, visit the corporate site: https://jackthedipperfranchise.com/