KI

Kona Ice Franchise Fee (2026)

Fitness & Wellness · Franchise Opportunity
Initial Franchise Fee $20,000
📊 Total Investment: $149K–$189K 💰 Royalty: None (flat royalty)

About Kona Ice

Kona Ice is a shaved ice truck franchise with 1,400+ units, founded in 2007 in Florence, Kentucky. The distinctive Kona truck with its self-serve Flavor Wave station visits schools, neighborhoods, events, and businesses — creating a mobile, community-oriented brand.

Kona Ice operates on a flat-royalty model (not percentage-based) making it one of the most financially transparent franchise opportunities available. The mobile format eliminates real estate costs and allows franchisees to follow demand to different locations throughout the day.

Fee Breakdown

Initial Franchise Fee$20,000
Total Investment Range$149K–$189K
Royalty FeeNone (flat royalty)
Marketing / Ad FundNone
Minimum Net WorthContact franchisor
Liquid Capital RequiredContact franchisor

Fees are based on publicly available FDD data and may change. Always review the current Franchise Disclosure Document before investing.

Pros & Cons

✅ Pros

  • ✓ Mobile model eliminates real estate costs entirely
  • ✓ Flat royalty makes financial projections highly predictable
  • ✓ Strong community/school presence builds brand loyalty
  • ✓ One of the highest franchisee satisfaction ratings in any category

⚠️ Cons

  • ✗ Revenue is highly seasonal — limited winter operations in cold climates
  • ✗ Mobile unit requires constant maintenance and fueling
  • ✗ Requires strong route planning and customer development skills

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is the Kona Ice franchise fee?
The Kona Ice initial franchise fee is $20,000. Total investment ranges from $149K–$189K, which includes buildout, equipment, inventory, and working capital. Contact a Kona Ice franchise representative for current FDD details.
What is the total cost to open a Kona Ice franchise?
Total investment to open a Kona Ice franchise ranges from $149K–$189K. This includes the initial franchise fee of $20,000 plus real estate, construction, equipment, training, and opening inventory costs.
What is Kona Ice's royalty fee?
Kona Ice charges a royalty fee of None (flat royalty) on gross sales. These ongoing fees fund brand marketing and corporate support.
Is Kona Ice a good franchise investment?
Kona Ice has established brand recognition and a proven business model. As with any franchise, success depends on your market, execution, and local competition. Review the current FDD (Franchise Disclosure Document) and speak with existing franchisees before investing.
How do I apply to become a Kona Ice franchisee?
To apply for a Kona Ice franchise, visit their official franchise website or contact their franchise development team. You'll typically need to complete an application, review the FDD, attend a discovery day, and meet their financial qualification requirements.

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