Bruster’s Ice Cream expands to So Cal

CERRITOS – For the first time, scoops of premium Bruster’s Real Ice Cream will be served in Southern California under the largest domestic development deal in the company’s 25-year history. The first of six locations is scheduled to open in Cypress the first week of April. The shop is under construction in Cypress Plaza, located at the intersection of Ball Road and Walker Street.

Other Southern California locations will include Artesia, Fullerton, Newport Beach, La Habra and Cerritos.

Pittsburgh-based Bruster’s, with a cult-like following in the East and South, features more than 200 flavors of handcrafted ice cream, yogurt, Italian ice and sorbet, with at least 24 made fresh in each shop daily. It also makes its own waffles daily.

There are nearly 200, independently owned locations in 18 states and the nation of Guyana. It recently celebrated its 25th anniversary.

Southern California-based business partners Larry Johnson and Robert Clinton chose to invest in Bruster’s after studying several chains in a variety of segments.

“There are lots of fad pizza, burger and yogurt chains out there, but ice cream is here to stay,” said Johnson. “Bruster’s premium product really differentiates it from other frozen treat brands.”

“We liked Bruster’s supporting cast and its infrastructure,” said Clinton. “Bruster’s franchise support system, especially its strong marketing, clinched the deal.”

Bruster’s posted a 4.6 percent same-store sales increase in 2014. Average unit volumes are up nearly 20 percent since 2012.

“Larry and Bob are experienced, sophisticated entrepreneurs and operators,” said Bruster’s CEO Jim Sahene. “Their commitment for six units underscores Bruster’s potential as a strong, national premium ice cream brand.”

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Published: March 19, 2015 - Volume 13 - Issue 49