For sale, this Rita's Italian Ice franchise is a compact, efficient, and fully turnkey opportunity. A 745 sq ft walk-in shop featuring a convenient walk-up window that enhances quick-service appeal in Florida's sunny, year-round climate. All equipment is owned. Low rent is locked in below market rates and operations run lean with 6 part-time employees (including owners)—all staff is fully trained.
Launched on June 1, 2023 (grand opening August 2023), this location has built a strong local foundation with proven revenue generation. The shop maintains an active social media footprint through dedicated Facebook and Instagram.
This location fully embodies Rita's powerhouse brand identity: the nation's largest and most recognized Italian ice concept, surpassing 600 locations worldwide as of early 2026. Known for its unique, crave-worthy blend of silky, real-fruit Italian ice (made fresh daily) and creamy frozen custard, Rita's also creates irresistible Gelati, Blender drinks, Milkshakes, Sundaes, and hundreds of refreshing flavors with scrumptious toppings.
The prime location fuels organic traffic in one of Pinellas County's most family-oriented and accessible retail corridors along US Highway 19 N—a major north-south arterial with high daily volumes. Immediate neighbors create a daily-destination hub: a nail salon, children's karate/daycare/summer camp (ideal for family cross-traffic and after-school treats), Europon grocery store, pharmacy, and dentist—plus the Chick-fil-A drive-thru exit less than 100 yards from your front door for massive visibility and impulse appeal. Ample parking enables seamless access and untapped curbside ordering/pickup potential.
Hours are profit-optimized: 12:00 pm–10:00 pm during peak season (maximizing warm-weather demand) and 2:00 pm–8:00 pm in shoulder months (Nov–Feb), focusing on high-margin periods with limited seating and strong takeout/walk-up emphasis.
Palm Harbor delivers a desirable demographic mix and a stable, affluent community of families, retirees, and professionals. The area's family-friendly vibe—bolstered by nearby schools, churches, parks, sports leagues, events and tourism.
Minimal-effort catering or sponsorships could generate recurring revenue, especially in shoulder seasons, by positioning Rita's as the go-to for joyful community celebrations.