Franchising

Rita's Italian Ice makes moves on the Bluegrass State

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May 5, 2021

Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard is expanding into Kentucky after signing a multi-unit deal to bring its stores to the Bluegrass State later this year. The agreement was finalized with a multi-generational family franchise team and is part of a larger goal to bring additional locations to markets such as Lexington, Louisville, Owensboro, Covington and Florence, all in Kentucky, a news release said.

The first shop is being constructed on Christian Care Way in Bowling Green in Western Kentucky. The 1,500-square-foot location will feature a dine-in area, as well as a drive-thru, under the operation of husband-and-wife team, David and Erin Smith, along with Erin's mother, Christine Hillard.

"Rita's has always held a special place in our hearts, so when the opportunity arose to invest, we were incredibly excited to have the opportunity to bring the brand to Kentucky," David Smith said in the release. "Erin, Christine and I can't wait to introduce our neighborhood to a business that has meant so much to our family — we hope to one day pass this business down to our children. And, while Rita's may not be a household name in Kentucky yet, you can bet it will be soon."

Rita's features Italian ice as well as gelatis, concretes, milkshakes and frozen custard. Rita's signature Italian Ice is made fresh daily and available in a rotating daily selection from over 90 flavors.

Rita's is actively looking for additional franchisees to help develop the brand throughout Kentucky. The brand first opened its doors in Bensalem, Pennsylvania in 1984, and now has approximately 600 shops globally.