Skip to main content
Prime Rate:6.75%Fed Funds:3.64%5-Yr Treasury:3.88%10-Yr Treasury:4.25%30-Yr Treasury:4.83%30-Yr Mortgage:6.22%·Updated Mar 19, 2026Prime Rate:6.75%Fed Funds:3.64%5-Yr Treasury:3.88%10-Yr Treasury:4.25%30-Yr Treasury:4.83%30-Yr Mortgage:6.22%·Updated Mar 19, 2026
Rates
Handel's Homemade Ice Cream Si

Handel's Homemade Ice Cream Si

Franchising since 1945 · 26 locations

The total investment to open a Handel's Homemade Ice Cream Si franchise ranges from $317,400 - $638,880. The initial franchise fee is $44,500. Ongoing royalties are 6% plus a 3% advertising fee. Handel's Homemade Ice Cream Si currently operates 26 locations (26 franchised). The top SBA 7(a) lenders for Handel's Homemade Ice Cream Si are Ameris Bank, First Savings Bank and FWBank. PeerSense FPI health score: 63/100. Data sourced from the 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document.

Investment

$317,400 - $638,880

Franchise Fee

$44,500

Total Units

26

26 franchised

FPI Score
High
63

Proprietary PeerSense metric

Moderate
Capital Partners
20lenders available

Active capital sources verified for Handel's Homemade Ice Cream Si financing

SBA

7(a) Eligible

21d

Avg Funding

P+2.25%

Best Rate

No retainers · Referral fee at closing

FPI Score Breakdown

Established (25-99 loans)

High Confidence
63out of 100
Moderate

SBA Lending Performance

SBA Default Rate

0.0%

0 of 27 loans charged off

SBA Loans

27

Total Volume

$15.5M

Active Lenders

20

States

13

Top SBA Lenders for Handel's Homemade Ice Cream Si

What is the Handel's Homemade Ice Cream Si franchise?

The discerning entrepreneur navigating the dynamic landscape of the snack and nonalcoholic beverage industry often grapples with a fundamental question: "Which franchise offers the most compelling blend of market demand, operational simplicity, and sustainable growth potential?" This critical decision, fraught with the complexities of financial commitment and long-term vision, represents the core problem PeerSense.com aims to solve. For those considering an entry into the indulgent dessert sector, the Handels Homemade Ice Cream Si franchise emerges as a brand with a distinctive proposition, rooted in a commitment to quality that resonates deeply with consumer preferences. While specific details regarding its founding year are not available in the current data, the "Homemade" designation itself speaks to a heritage of craftsmanship, implying a dedication to traditional production methods that eschews mass-produced alternatives. This artisanal approach positions Handels Homemade Ice Cream Si squarely within the premium segment of the frozen dessert market, a segment valued globally at approximately $79 billion in 2022 and projected to ascend to nearly $110 billion by 2030, exhibiting a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.2%. Currently, the Handels Homemade Ice Cream Si network comprises 26 active franchised units, reflecting a deliberate expansion strategy focused on operator-driven growth, with zero company-owned locations. This structure underscores a franchise-centric model where the success of the brand is intrinsically tied to the performance and dedication of its franchisees. The 20 total units reported, alongside the 26 franchised units and 26 active locations in the PeerSense database, suggest a strong, if uniquely measured, operational footprint predominantly propelled by its franchise partners. This established network provides a tangible foundation for prospective investors seeking to capitalize on a brand that has demonstrated its ability to attract and retain dedicated franchise operators within a highly competitive, yet perpetually in-demand, consumer category. The total addressable market for snack and nonalcoholic beverage bars, a broader category encompassing ice cream, is significantly larger, estimated at over $150 billion in the U.S. alone, growing steadily as consumers increasingly prioritize convenience and accessible indulgence, thereby creating a fertile ground for the continued expansion of the Handels Homemade Ice Cream Si franchise.

The snack and nonalcoholic beverage bars category, a vibrant and resilient segment of the broader food service industry, presents an attractive landscape for franchise investment, underpinned by substantial market size and consistent growth. The global market for ice cream, a core offering of the Handels Homemade Ice Cream Si franchise, reached an estimated $79 billion in 2022 and is forecast to expand to approximately $110 billion by 2030, driven by a compound annual growth rate of 4.2%. This growth trajectory is further supported by a multitude of key consumer trends. There's an undeniable secular tailwind towards premiumization, with consumers increasingly willing to pay more for high-quality, artisanal products that offer unique flavor experiences and natural ingredients, precisely the niche occupied by Handels Homemade Ice Cream Si. Demand for indulgent treats, often serving as emotional comfort or social experiences, remains robust across demographic segments. Furthermore, the rise of experiential dining and the influence of social media in showcasing aesthetically pleasing food items contribute significantly to the appeal of specialty dessert concepts. The industry also benefits from evolving consumption patterns, including increased snacking frequency and the desire for convenient, on-the-go options that don't compromise on quality. These factors collectively make the "Snack and Nonalcoholic Beverage Bars" category particularly appealing to franchise investors. The competitive dynamics within this market, while intense, also present opportunities for brands like Handels Homemade Ice Cream Si that differentiate through product quality and a focused menu. The relatively lower operational complexity compared to full-service restaurants, coupled with high gross margins on product sales for well-managed operations, makes ice cream franchises a compelling choice for entrepreneurs seeking a scalable and profitable business model. The established network of 26 franchised units for Handels Homemade Ice Cream Si signifies a proven concept capable of navigating these market forces and capitalizing on the enduring consumer appetite for delicious, high-quality frozen desserts.

For prospective investors evaluating the Handels Homemade Ice Cream Si franchise opportunity, a meticulous understanding of the financial commitment is paramount. The initial franchise fee for Handels Homemade Ice Cream Si is $44,500. This figure positions the brand competitively within the broader quick-service restaurant (QSR) and specialty beverage franchise sectors, where initial fees typically range from $25,000 to $60,000, reflecting the value of the brand, its operational systems, and intellectual property. The total initial investment required to establish a Handels Homemade Ice Cream Si franchise ranges from $317,400 on the low end to $638,880 on the high end. This comprehensive range encompasses a variety of critical expenditures essential for launching and operating the business. Typically, this investment covers leasehold improvements for the physical location, which can vary significantly based on the existing condition of the site and the desired build-out specifications. It also includes the acquisition of specialized ice cream making equipment, refrigeration units, point-of-sale (POS) systems, signage, initial inventory of ingredients and supplies, grand opening marketing expenses, and crucial working capital to cover initial operating costs such as rent, utilities, and payroll for the first few months until the business achieves self-sufficiency. While specific liquid capital and net worth requirements are not available in the provided data, investors should anticipate needing substantial liquid assets to cover the initial investment and maintain financial stability. Similarly, details regarding ongoing fees such as royalties and advertising contributions are not available, which means potential franchisees would need to inquire directly with the franchisor for a complete understanding of the long-term financial obligations. A thorough total cost of ownership analysis for a Handels Homemade Ice Cream Si franchise would factor in not only the initial investment and any disclosed ongoing fees but also operational costs such as labor, rent, utilities, ingredient costs, and local marketing initiatives, providing a holistic view of the financial commitment. The moderate FPI Score of 63 suggests a balanced risk-reward profile, indicating a franchise system that has established a degree of stability and operational effectiveness, making it an accessible option for entrepreneurs seeking a robust, yet not excessively speculative, franchise opportunity.

The operational model of a Handels Homemade Ice Cream Si franchise is designed for efficiency and a consistent customer experience, centralizing around the creation and serving of high-quality, homemade ice cream. Daily operations typically involve the meticulous preparation of fresh ice cream batches, a core differentiator implied by the "Homemade" aspect, ensuring product freshness and consistency across all 26 franchised units. This process requires precise ingredient management, adherence to proprietary recipes, and diligent equipment maintenance. Beyond production, key operational activities include managing inventory, ensuring exceptional customer service at the counter, maintaining a clean and inviting store environment, and executing local marketing initiatives. Staffing requirements for a typical Handels Homemade Ice Cream Si location would generally include a core team of scoopers and customer service representatives, often supplemented by a shift leader or general manager responsible for day-to-day oversight, scheduling, and operational adherence. The exact number of staff would fluctuate based on store size, customer traffic patterns, and peak operating hours, but a lean, efficient team is a hallmark of successful snack concepts. While specific format options are not detailed, ice cream franchises commonly offer flexible footprints, ranging from traditional stand-alone scoop shops in high-traffic retail areas to smaller kiosk models in malls or entertainment venues, allowing franchisees to adapt to diverse market opportunities. A robust training program is a cornerstone of any successful franchise, and prospective Handels Homemade Ice Cream Si franchisees can expect comprehensive initial training covering all facets of the business, from ice cream production techniques and product knowledge to customer service protocols, marketing strategies, and back-office management. This training ensures that new operators are fully equipped to replicate the brand's success. Ongoing corporate support would typically include continued operational guidance, marketing collateral and campaigns, supply chain management assistance to ensure access to quality ingredients, and potentially research and development for new flavor innovations to keep the menu fresh and appealing. Territory structure is generally designed to provide franchisees with an exclusive operating area, protecting their investment and fostering growth without internal competition. While multi-unit requirements are not explicitly stated, successful franchisees in this segment often pursue multi-unit development, leveraging their operational expertise and established infrastructure to expand their footprint and maximize return on investment within their designated territories or adjacent markets.

When evaluating a franchise investment, financial performance data is a critical determinant for prospective owners. For the Handels Homemade Ice Cream Si franchise, it is important to explicitly state that Item 19 financial performance data is NOT disclosed in the current Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD). This means that specific revenue figures, profit margins, or average unit volumes (AUVs) for existing Handels Homemade Ice Cream Si locations are not provided by the franchisor. While this absence requires a more generalized approach to financial projections, investors can still gain valuable insights by examining industry benchmarks and the broader growth trajectory of the snack and nonalcoholic beverage bars category. In the absence of Item 19 data, PeerSense advises investors to consider the performance metrics of comparable concepts within the premium ice cream and dessert segment. Successful ice cream franchises, particularly those emphasizing quality ingredients and a unique customer experience, typically achieve average unit volumes ranging from $400,000 to $800,000 annually, with top-performing units exceeding $1 million in sales. Profitability for well-managed operations in this sector can range from 15% to 25% of net sales, influenced by factors such as rent costs, labor efficiency, and effective inventory control. These industry benchmarks, while not specific to Handels Homemade Ice Cream Si, illustrate the potential financial viability within the category for a brand with a strong value proposition and operational execution. The FPI Score of 63, categorized as "Moderate," suggests that while specific financial disclosures are absent, the overall franchise system exhibits a reasonable level of stability and operational foundation, indicating a balanced risk assessment from an independent evaluation perspective. The inherent demand for indulgent treats, coupled with the brand's focus on "Homemade" quality, suggests a resilient business model capable of generating consistent revenue streams. Prospective Handels Homemade Ice Cream Si franchisees should conduct thorough due diligence, including interviewing existing franchisees (if permitted and accessible), to gain anecdotal insights into operational costs, revenue potential, and overall business satisfaction, thereby building a more comprehensive financial picture.

The growth trajectory of the Handels Homemade Ice Cream Si franchise, while not detailed with specific year-over-year unit counts, is evident in its current network of 26 franchised units. This existing footprint, with all 26 locations actively managed by franchisees, signifies a foundational level of expansion and market penetration that provides a solid base for future development. The absence of specific "Year Started Franchising" data prevents a precise calculation of the compound annual growth rate in unit count, but the presence of 26 active units suggests a sustained effort in franchise development and a proven ability to attract and support new operators. Recent developments in the broader snack and nonalcoholic beverage market indicate a continued consumer appetite for specialized dessert concepts, which Handels Homemade Ice Cream Si is well-positioned to leverage. Market trends show a consistent rise in demand for premium, handcrafted products, allowing brands that emphasize quality and unique flavor profiles to carve out significant market share. The competitive moat for Handels Homemade Ice Cream Si is primarily centered on its implied commitment to "Homemade" quality, a powerful differentiator in a market often saturated with mass-produced alternatives. This focus suggests a dedication to fresh ingredients, artisanal preparation methods, and potentially distinctive flavor combinations that foster strong customer loyalty and repeat business. In an increasingly digital-first economy, the brand's success will also hinge on its ability to embrace digital transformation. This includes implementing robust online ordering systems, developing engaging loyalty programs to reward frequent customers, and maintaining an active and compelling presence on social media platforms to drive brand awareness and customer engagement. The growth of the Handels Homemade Ice Cream Si franchise will likely be driven by strategic market penetration, targeting high-traffic retail locations and communities with a strong demand for premium dessert options. The existing 26 franchised units provide a valuable proof of concept, demonstrating the brand's operational viability and market acceptance, which are critical factors for attracting new investors and fueling continued expansion.

The ideal franchisee for a Handels Homemade Ice Cream Si franchise is typically an individual or a partnership deeply committed to operational excellence and community engagement, possessing a genuine passion for delivering exceptional customer experiences. While specific liquid capital and net worth requirements are not available, a successful candidate would generally possess a strong business acumen, demonstrate effective leadership skills for managing a team, and have the financial capacity to comfortably manage the initial investment ranging from $317,400 to $638,880. Experience in retail, food service, or general business management is highly beneficial, though not always mandatory, as comprehensive training programs are designed to equip new franchisees with the necessary skills. A key characteristic of the ideal Handels Homemade Ice Cream Si franchisee is an entrepreneurial spirit combined with a willingness to adhere to a proven system, leveraging the brand's established operational protocols and marketing strategies. Many successful franchisees in this sector are also community-minded, actively participating in local events and building strong relationships with their customer base, which is particularly effective for a local-focused "Homemade" concept. For those with aspirations beyond a single location, multi-unit expectations are often encouraged, allowing operators to scale their business and maximize their return on investment by developing multiple Handels Homemade Ice Cream Si franchises within a defined geographic area. This approach leverages initial training, supply chain efficiencies, and administrative overhead across several units. With 26 existing franchised units, there are clearly available territories for expansion, offering new franchisees opportunities in both developing and underserved markets. The timeline from signing a franchise agreement to the grand opening of a Handels Homemade Ice Cream Si location typically spans 6 to 12 months, depending on factors such as site selection, lease negotiations, build-out duration, and training schedules. While the specific agreement term length is not available, franchise agreements in the food service industry commonly range from 10 to 20 years, providing a long-term framework for business operation and asset appreciation.

The Handels Homemade Ice Cream Si franchise presents a compelling investment opportunity for entrepreneurs seeking entry into the resilient and growing snack and nonalcoholic beverage bars segment. With a proven network of 26 active franchised units and a focus on "Homemade" quality, the brand is well-positioned to capitalize on the enduring consumer demand for premium, indulgent desserts. The initial investment range of $317,400 to $638,880, coupled with a $44,500 franchise fee, places it within an accessible yet substantial category for aspiring business owners. While Item 19 financial performance data is not disclosed, the moderate FPI Score of 63 and the robust industry benchmarks for similar concepts suggest a viable path to profitability for well-executed operations. The brand's commitment to quality, evidenced by its "Homemade Ice Cream Si" designation, forms a strong competitive advantage in a market increasingly valuing artisanal products and unique customer experiences. For investors ready to commit to a franchise opportunity with a clear market niche and a track record of franchisee-led growth, Handels Homemade Ice Cream Si offers a strategic pathway to business ownership. PeerSense provides unparalleled independent franchise intelligence, empowering investors with the data and analysis needed to make informed decisions. Explore the complete Handels Homemade Ice Cream Si franchise profile on PeerSense to access the full suite of independent franchise intelligence data.

FPI Score

63/100

SBA Default Rate

0.0%

Active Lenders

20

Key Highlights

Low SBA default rate (0.0%)

Data Insights

Key performance metrics for Handel's Homemade Ice Cream Si based on SBA lending data

SBA Default Rate

0.0%

0 of 27 loans charged off

SBA Loan Volume

27 loans

Across 20 lenders

Lender Diversity

20 lenders

Avg 1.4 loans per lender

Investment Tier

Significant investment

$317,400 – $638,880 total

Handel's Homemade Ice Cream Si — Deep SBA Data

Brand-specific metrics derived directly from SBA 7(a) approval records — peak lending year, leading state, average loan size, and lender concentration. PeerSense computes these per brand so capital advisors and prospective franchisees can benchmark this opportunity against the rest of the franchise universe.

Peak SBA Year

2021

8 approvals — best year on record for Handel's Homemade Ice Cream Si.

Top SBA State

California

7 SBA-financed Handel's Homemade Ice Cream Si locations — the densest operator footprint.

Average Loan Size

$573K

Median $497K — use as a sizing anchor when modeling your own $Handel's Homemade Ice Cream Si unit.

Lender Concentration

25.9%

Moderately Spread

Share of Handel's Homemade Ice Cream Si approvals captured by the top 3 SBA lenders.

Handel's Homemade Ice Cream Si's SBA lending pipeline peaked in 2021 (8 approvals). The last five fiscal years account for 74% of cumulative volume ($12M approved). Operator density is highest in California with 7 SBA-financed locations. Average funded ticket sits at $573K, with the median at $497K. Lender mix is moderately spread: the top three SBA lenders account for 25.9% of approvals — meaningful choice exists but specific lenders carry the brand.

Payment Estimator

Loan Amount$254K
Interest Rate9.5%
Term (Years)10 yr

Estimated Monthly Payment

$3,286

Principal & Interest only

Locations

Handel's Homemade Ice Cream Siunit breakdown

Total Units
N/A
Franchisee Owned
System Owned
Closed

Explore Funding for Handel's Homemade Ice Cream Si

Our business financing consultants help connect you with the right lending partners. No retainers — referral fee paid at closing.

One more step: check the consent box above and type your full legal name as signature to enable submission.

No retainers · Referral fee at closing

Or get an instant analysis

Scan Your Deal Instantly

1 FDD Available for Handel's Homemade Ice Cream Si

Review franchise fees, investment ranges, royalties, Item 19 financial data, and year-over-year trends. Request complimentary access through your PeerSense funding advisor.

Handel's Homemade Ice Cream Si