by John Louie Ramos

Created on: August 23, 2010   Last Updated: August 26, 2010

Starting a business establishment such as an ice cream parlor requires a lot of hard work and a heap of determination for it to be successful. Hence, apart from the basic steps in starting out a small business, there are so many other factors that need to be given consideration in order to successfully operate an ice cream parlor.

Location

In choosing a place to put up your ice cream parlor, it's necessary to first identify your target market. Ice cream parlors are popular hangouts for teens and young locals. Thus, putting up an ice cream parlor near a school or a park would generate a huge volume of customers. Similarly, there are ice cream parlors that cater to tourists. Nevertheless, such establishments are perfect near entertainment venues, malls and tourist spots.

Knowledge

Business owners, particularly those who own an ice cream parlor, must have a full grasp of how an ice cream parlor operates. They must fully understand the financial viability and the marketing and branding aspects that go along with an ice cream parlor. A great way to acquire such knowledge is to get it from the right sources - successful businessmen i.e. those who have already started an ice cream parlor. Interview them, ask them how they got started and observe the way they operates.

Menu Planning

Aside from the usual frozen treats catered by ice cream parlors, such business establishments also offer small snacks like sandwiches, hot dogs, burgers, cereals and pastas. More so, ice cream parlors should offer a several ice cream flavors and other frozen delights such as banana splits, yogurts and floats.

Franchising vs Starting a New Brand

One of the biggest decisions that prospective ice cream parlor owners should addressed is the decision on whether to buy an existing ice cream parlor brand (franchise) and carry the same name or start up a new brand. Needless to say, there are so many pros and cons that go with each side. Franchising an existing brand allows you to  enjoy the popularity and goodwill associated with the brand but certain regulations and franchise policies are somewhat anti-growth and the franchisee, at a great extent, is tied up with the franchisor's rules. 

On the other hand, setting up a new brand although involves a greater amount of hard work and sacrifice, gives owners freedom as to the operating and marketing strategies of the business.

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