What Is My Ice Cream Shop Worth?

Ice cream and frozen yogurt shops are popular small business purchases — aspirational buyers love the concept. But seasonality is the defining valuation challenge for most locations.

Typical Valuation Ranges

Most ice cream shops sell for 1.5x to 3x SDE.

Factors that push toward the higher end: Year-round revenue (warm climate or diversified menu), catering and event revenue, franchise affiliation, high-traffic tourist or entertainment district location, strong social media and brand.

Factors that push toward the lower end: Severe seasonality (4–6 month operating season), owner works every shift, commodity product without differentiation, short remaining lease, limited revenue beyond scoop sales.

Addressing Seasonality

Seasonality is the biggest valuation challenge. Shops that have mitigated it through hot beverages, baked goods, catering, wholesale pints, and event services are more bankable and attract more buyers.

Year-round locations in warm climates or tourist destinations avoid this issue entirely and command premium multiples.

How to Increase Your Value

1. Fight seasonality. Add hot chocolate, coffee, baked goods, or complementary products for cold months.
2. Build catering and events. Ice cream catering for parties, weddings, and corporate events creates additional revenue.
3. Launch wholesale. Pint sales, local grocery placement, and online ordering extend your reach.
4. Build your brand. Instagram-worthy presentation, unique flavors, and community events drive traffic and social sharing.
5. Secure your lease. Location is the primary asset.

Browse the valuation multiples guide for industry data, or schedule a free call for a confidential valuation.