FAQ

GOT QUESTIONS? STRAIGHT ANSWERS.

No corporate doublespeak. No fine print. Just the real answers about owning an Uncle Louie G franchise.

INVESTMENT & COSTS
How much does it cost to open an Uncle Louie G?
The initial franchise fee is $20,000 for all formats — mobile trailer and retail store. This is the same fee regardless of which path you choose, and it’s significantly lower than comparable Italian ice franchises that charge $22,000-$35,000.
How are there really $0 royalties? What’s the catch?
There’s no catch. We make our money when you buy product from us — that’s it. No percentage of revenue, no ad fees, no technology fees, no mystery charges. The more you sell, the more we both win. Our business model is aligned with yours: we only succeed when you succeed. Compare that to competitors who charge 5-6.5% of your gross revenue every month whether you’re profitable or not.
How much do I need in liquid assets?
You’ll typically need between $45,000 to $66,000 in liquid assets. We also recommend three months of additional working capital to cover initial operating expenses as you build your customer base.
Are there any ongoing fees?
Zero. No royalties, no advertising fees, no technology fees, no brand licensing fees, no monthly payments to corporate. Ever. The only ongoing cost is purchasing product from us at wholesale pricing — which is your inventory, not a fee. You set your own prices and keep 100% of the margin.
GETTING STARTED
Do I need food or restaurant experience?
No. Italian ices and ice cream are pre-made and shipped to you. There’s no cooking, no kitchen, no chef needed. If you can scoop, you can run this business. We provide comprehensive training at our Staten Island headquarters that covers everything from operations to marketing.
How fast can I open?
Mobile trailers can be operational in as little as 30 days after signing. Retail stores typically take 60-90 days depending on buildout, permitting, and location in your area. Compare that to most franchises that take 6-12 months.
What training do I receive?
You receive comprehensive hands-on training at our corporate location in Staten Island, NY. This covers product handling, operations, marketing, location selection, lease negotiation support, equipment sourcing, and grand opening planning. You’ll leave ready to run your business.
What’s the difference between the mobile trailer and retail store?
The mobile trailer is perfect for events, festivals, farmers markets, and testing the business before committing to a lease. Lower risk, lower overhead, maximum flexibility. The retail store is a permanent location for year-round revenue, higher volume, and multiple revenue streams (walk-in, catering, events). Both have the same $20,000 franchise fee and $0 royalties.
TERRITORY & LOCATION
Do I get an exclusive territory?
Yes. We grant exclusive territories. Once you lock in your area, no other Uncle Louie G can open there. Your territory is protected for the life of your franchise agreement.
What if my area is already taken?
Territories are filling fast — especially in Florida, New York, New Jersey, and other high-demand areas. The only way to know if your city is available is to book a discovery call. If your first choice is taken, our Franchise Director can help identify nearby territories that might work even better for you.
What type of location does Uncle Louie G look for?
For retail stores, locations are generally 900 square feet and up, in highly populated areas with good visibility, easy accessibility, and high foot traffic. Think strip malls, downtown areas, near schools, parks, or entertainment venues. We help with location selection and lease negotiation.
OPERATIONS & REVENUE
What are the profit margins?
Italian ices and ice cream carry 70-80% profit margins — among the highest in the food industry. Combined with zero royalties and zero ad fees, you keep significantly more of every dollar compared to any other franchise in this category.
Is this seasonal?
Retail stores operate year-round. Italian ices and ice cream have strong summer demand, but ice cream cakes, milkshakes, and catering keep revenue flowing through fall and winter. Mobile trailers can be seasonal or year-round depending on your market. Many franchisees start with a trailer in summer and open a store once they’ve proven the demand.
Can I own multiple locations?
Absolutely. Many franchisees start with one location and expand once they’ve proven the business model in their area. Since there are no royalties, scaling is more profitable — every additional location adds pure profit without increasing your corporate fees.
THE DISCOVERY CALL
What happens on the discovery call?
It’s a 15-minute conversation with our Franchise Director. No pitch, no pressure — just real answers about your city, territory availability, and investment details for your specific situation. If it’s not a fit, we’ll tell you that too. No hard feelings.
What’s the full process from call to opening?
1) Book your 15-minute discovery call. 2) Get the real numbers for your city. 3) Apply and discuss territory. 4) Visit our Staten Island HQ — tour the factory, meet the team, taste the product. 5) Sign your agreement and start training. 6) Open your doors in 30-90 days depending on your format. The whole process moves fast because we want you making money fast.
What’s the guarantee about visiting HQ?
We’ll fly you to Staten Island to tour the factory, meet the team, and taste the product. If you don’t believe this is the best franchise opportunity you’ve ever seen, we’ll pay for your flight home and you owe us nothing. We make this guarantee because nobody who visits our headquarters leaves without wanting in.

STILL HAVE QUESTIONS?

The best way to get answers specific to your city and situation is a 15-minute discovery call. No pitch. No pressure.

BOOK YOUR FREE DISCOVERY CALL

Or call us directly: 718-966-3763