Processing Your Payment

Please do not leave this page until complete. This can take a few moments.

December 11, 2019

Ice cream business expanding, launches franchise program

PHOTO | Contributed A Gofer Ice Cream shop.
By Michelle Tuccitto Sullo

Gofer Ice Cream is hoping its frozen confections may soon be as popular throughout New Haven County and Connecticut as they are in the southwestern portion of the state.

The company announced Tuesday it has launched a program to offer Gofer Ice Cream franchises throughout Connecticut, and it plans to expand beyond the state in 2020.

Jay Ragusa, founder of Gofer Ice Cream and a Quinnipiac University graduate, said New Haven County is among the locations where he hopes to see significant growth.

“Stores are possible not only in New Haven but around the county,” Ragusa said. ”We just need to find the right franchisees.”

The chain launched in 2003 in Greenwich and also has stores in Cos Cob, Stamford, Wilton and Darien. Its mascot is a cartoon animal, a gopher, and the stores offer a variety of frozen treats, including hard and soft-serve ice cream, plant-based ice cream, Italian ice, smoothies, ice cream cakes and other novelties.

“We have a diverse product line — with both hard and soft serve and even plant-based ice cream for people who can’t eat dairy,” Ragusa said.

According to Ragusa, the company’s goal has been to launch a franchise program since the beginning.

“It has always been the plan to prove and perfect the concept and then replicate it through the franchise model,” Ragusa said. “We've learned a lot over the years, and we feel we're in a great position to help others own, operate and prosper in their own business.” 

When asked how Gofer Ice Cream shops are different from others, Ragusa said Gofer strives to “bring a sense of community.”

The goal is for Gofer Ice Cream to become the center of its host community, where family and friends can enjoy a frozen treat in a welcoming environment, according to Ragusa.

In 2019 a new company, Gofer Franchise Systems LLC, was formed to focus on expanding via franchising the concept beyond Fairfield County. To prepare for this franchise opportunity launch, the Gofer team has been working with Gary Occhiogrosso of Franchise Growth Solutions. Occhiogrosso called it a “compelling franchise opportunity.”

“The frozen dessert business continues to grow,” he said. “People love ice cream, and Gofer creates memories by delivering a family and community experience.”

Contact Michelle Tuccitto Sullo at msullo@newhavenbiz.com.

Sign up for Enews

Most Recent

Most Recent

0 Comments

Order a PDF