10+ Best & Profitable Shaved Ice Business Ideas [2023]

Looking to get into the profitable shaved ice business? Check out this list of the top 10+ best and most profitable shaved ice business ideas for 2021. From online stores to franchising, find out which shaved ice business is perfect for you.
Nick

By Nick Cotter
Updated Feb 07, 2024

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Hey there, future entrepreneur! So, you're thinking about diving into the refreshing world of the shaved ice business? Well, let me tell you, you're in for a cool ride! The year 2023 is just around the corner and it's high time to start planning for your icy venture. Whether you're dreaming about a charming little snow cone stand or envisioning a fleet of colorful, music-blaring shaved ice trucks, you're stepping into a market that's not just profitable, but also downright fun!

But wait, don't just take my word for it! In this article, we're going to explore more than 10 of the best and most profitable ideas in the shaved ice business. We'll delve into the stories of those who've made it big, learn from their experiences, and hopefully, ignite that entrepreneurial spark in you. So, buckle up and get ready to ride the wave of sweet, icy success!

Adding Alcohol To Shaved Ice

Have you ever tried shaved ice? It's a refreshing and delicious treat that's perfect for hot summer days. But have you ever considered adding alcohol to shaved ice? This is a trend that has been taking off in recent years, and for good reason- it's a unique and fun twist on a classic treat that can take your business to the next level. Read on to find out why.

  • It attracts a new customer base: By adding alcohol to your shaved ice, you can attract a whole new demographic of customers- those who are looking for a fun and boozy treat. This can open up new opportunities for business and boost sales.
  • It's easy to make: Adding alcohol to shaved ice is a simple process that doesn't require any special equipment. All you need is shaved ice and your choice of liquor. This means that it's an easy addition to your menu that won't require a lot of extra work.
  • It's customizable: Adding alcohol to shaved ice allows for a lot of creativity in terms of flavors and mix-ins. You can experiment with different liquor combinations and add fruit or other flavors to create unique and delicious treats that will keep customers coming back for more.
  • It's a fun experience: Offering alcohol-infused shaved ice can create a fun and festive atmosphere for your business. Customers can enjoy a unique treat while sipping on cocktails or other drinks, making for a memorable experience that they'll want to share with friends.

In conclusion, adding alcohol to shaved ice is a fun and potentially profitable business idea. With its wide appeal, simplicity, and potential for creativity, it's worth considering for any shaved ice business looking to stand out from the competition. So why not put a boozy spin on this classic treat and see where it takes you?

image of a Adding Alcohol To Shaved Ice

Creating Ice Cream Desserts With Shaved Ice

Have you ever tried a delicious shaved ice dessert loaded with ice cream? If you haven't, you're missing out on an incredible treat. Shaved ice desserts with ice cream are a popular and refreshing way to beat the heat, especially during summer months. And if you're an entrepreneur looking for a profitable business idea, starting a shaved ice dessert business could be your ticket to success.

Why creating ice cream desserts with shaved ice is a good business idea?

Starting a shaved ice dessert business that specializes in creating ice cream desserts with shaved ice has several advantages:

  • Low startup costs- You don't need to invest in expensive equipment or hire a big staff. All you need is a shaved ice machine and a space to sell your product.
  • Unique product offerings- Offering a variety of ice cream dessert flavors that are unique and delicious can set you apart from the competition.
  • Wide target audience- Everyone loves a cool treat on a hot day, making shaved ice desserts with ice cream a popular treat for all ages, making it a business that is suited to everyone's taste.
  • High-profit margins- With a low overhead cost and high demand, shaved ice businesses have a high-profit margin, allowing you to make money easily.
  • Seasonal business - This business idea is ideally suited for places with hot weather or summer resorts that attract vacationers.

Overall, starting a shaved ice dessert business is an excellent entrepreneurial opportunity. With low overhead costs, high-profit margins, and a large potential customer base, creating ice cream desserts with shaved ice is an idea worth pursuing.

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Examples of successful businesses:

The shaved ice business is a growing industry, with many well-established companies that have found success. Here are some examples of successful shaved ice businesses:

  • Hawaiian Shaved Ice
  • Kona Ice
  • Polar Freeze Shave Ice
  • Oasis Shave Ice Co.
  • Island Snow Hawaii
  • Cool Breeze Shave Ice Co.

Selling Shave Ice From A Cart In A Public Place

Selling shave ice from a cart in a public place can be a lucrative business idea for several reasons.

  • Low startup costs - compared to other food businesses, starting a shave ice cart requires relatively little money for initial investment.
  • High demand - especially in warm climates, people enjoy cool and tasty treats like shave ice, making it a popular snack option.
  • Flexible location - since carts are mobile, they can be moved to different locations depending on customer traffic or events, providing opportunities for increased sales.
  • Ease of preparation - unlike other food businesses, shave ice can be prepared quickly and easily in a small space, making it a manageable business for a solo entrepreneur or small team.
  • Customizable offerings - shave ice can be customized with a variety of flavors, toppings, and syrups, giving customers plenty of options to choose from and allowing for creativity and innovation in the business.
  • Connection with customers - since shave ice is often associated with fun activities and events, it can create a positive atmosphere that can lead to repeat customers and positive word-of-mouth advertising.

Offering Shaved Ice Catering Services

In the hot summer months, there are few things quite as satisfying as a refreshing cup of shaved ice. While it may seem like a simple treat, many people aren't aware of the growing trend of shaved ice catering services. These businesses provide a unique and fun addition to parties, events, and gatherings of all kinds. If you're looking for a new and exciting business idea, consider starting a shaved ice catering service.

  • Low overhead costs: A shaved ice catering business typically only requires a few key pieces of equipment, such as a shaved ice machine, cups, and flavored syrups. This means that startup costs are relatively low compared to other businesses.
  • Flexibility: Shaved ice catering services can be tailored to fit a wide range of events and venues, from backyard barbecues to large weddings and corporate events.
  • Repeat business: Once people have tried shaved ice from your catering service, they're likely to want to book you again for future events.
  • Seasonal demand: While shaved ice can be enjoyed year-round, there's no denying that demand for this treat peaks during the summer months. This means that you can have a flexible schedule in the off-season and potentially earn a lot of revenue during the busiest months.
  • Potential for expansion: If you find success with your shaved ice catering business, there are plenty of opportunities to expand your offerings. For example, you could add other types of treats to your menu, or even expand your catering services to include other types of food and beverages.

Creating Shaved Ice Snow Cones With Unique Flavors

Are you tired of the same old boring snow cones? Bland and uninspired flavors like cherry, grape, or blue raspberry leaving you feeling underwhelmed? Then it's time to try a shaved ice snow cone with unique and exciting flavors! Not only is it a delicious treat, but creating shaved ice snow cones with unique flavors can make for a wonderful and profitable business idea. Here's why:

  • Low start-up costs: With a simple machine and some flavorings, you can get started with relatively low costs compared to other food businesses. This makes it an accessible option for entrepreneurs looking to start small.
  • Year-round demand: While most people might think of snow cones as only being popular during the summer months, there is actually a demand for shaved ice treats throughout the year. In the winter, you can offer flavors like hot cocoa or pumpkin spice!
  • Endless flavor options: The possibilities are truly endless when it comes to the flavors you can offer. From classic fruit flavors to unique and unexpected combinations like lavender lemonade or cucumber mint, there is something for everyone.
  • Fun and customizable: Customers love being able to customize their treats with their favorite flavors and add-ons like sweetened condensed milk or gummy bears. This makes for a fun and interactive experience that keeps them coming back.
  • Appeals to all ages: Shaved ice snow cones are a beloved classic for kids and adults alike. Whether you're setting up at a school carnival or a music festival, there is always a market for this delicious treat.

Offering Shaved Ice At Outdoor Festivals

Offering shaved ice at outdoor festivals is a refreshing and fun way to beat the heat during the summer months. Shaved ice, also known as snow cones or snowballs, is a beloved treat that has been around for decades. It consists of finely shaved ice mixed with flavored syrups, and can be customized to suit a variety of tastes.

  • Low start-up costs: Starting a shaved ice business doesn’t require a significant amount of money compared to other businesses. A basic shaved ice machine can be purchased for a few hundred dollars, and the cost of syrups and other supplies is relatively low.
  • High profit margins: Shaved ice has a high profit margin, with the cost of the ice and syrup being only a fraction of the price charged to customers. This means that even a small business can make a decent profit.
  • Easy to customize: Shaved ice can be customized to appeal to a wide range of customers by offering different flavors, colors, and even toppings like whipped cream or fresh fruit.
  • Popular at outdoor events: Summer festivals, fairs, and other outdoor events are the perfect venues for a shaved ice business, as people are always looking for ways to cool down and enjoy themselves in the sun.
  • A fun business: Shaved ice is a fun and unique business idea that can be enjoyed by both the owner and their customers. It’s a great way to interact with people, make new connections, and bring joy to others.

Overall, offering shaved ice at outdoor festivals is a great business idea for those looking for a low-cost, high-profit, and fun business venture. With the right location, unique flavors, and fun atmosphere, a shaved ice business can quickly become a crowd favorite and a successful business venture.

Selling Shaved Ice At Beaches

If you're looking for a fun and profitable business idea that can be run seasonally, selling shaved ice at beaches might just be the answer! Here are a few reasons why this could be a great business opportunity:

  • High demand: Beach-goers are often looking for a way to cool down from the hot sun, and shaved ice is a perfect refreshing treat.
  • Low startup costs: Compared to many other businesses, starting a shaved ice stand is relatively inexpensive. All you really need is a shaved ice machine, ice, and some flavors.
  • Simple operation: You don't need a ton of experience or training to operate a shaved ice stand. It's a straightforward process of shaving the ice and adding flavors to cups or cones.
  • Flexibility: Depending on your location and business goals, you could run your shaved ice stand on a part-time or full-time basis, and during peak beach-going months or year-round.
  • Opportunities for creativity: While traditional shaved ice flavors like cherry and grape are always popular, you can also experiment with unique and trendy flavors like lavender or matcha to stand out from other shaved ice stands.

Operating A Shaved Ice Concession Stand

Operating a shaved ice concession stand is a type of business that involves selling shaved ice, also known as snow cones, from a mobile stand or trailer. Shaved ice is a popular dessert that can be served with a variety of flavored syrups and toppings.

Here are some reasons why starting a Shaved Ice Concession Stand business could be a good idea:

  • Shaved ice is a popular dessert that is enjoyed by people of all ages, which means there is a demand for this type of concession stand.
  • Shaved ice concession stands can be operated at a variety of events and locations, including festivals, fairs, parks, and beaches, making it a flexible business.
  • There is potential to earn a significant income from shaved ice sales, especially during the summer months.
  • Shaved ice concession stands require minimal equipment and inventory, making it a relatively low-cost business to start.
  • Shaved ice can be customized with a variety of flavors and toppings, which can appeal to a diverse customer base.

Creating Unique Shaved Ice Dishes

Creating unique shaved ice dishes is an exciting business venture that can lead to profitable and fulfilling outcomes. Shaved ice is a classic treat that has been enjoyed for generations, but with the right creativity, it can become so much more.

  • Unique flavors: Offering unusual and exotic flavors can set your shaved ice dishes apart from competitors and satisfy the adventurous palates of customers.
  • Customizable add-ons: Allowing customers to customize their shaved ice dishes with fruits, toppings, and syrups further enhances the experience and provides a personalized touch.
  • Catering opportunities: Shaved ice dishes are perfect for catering events and can serve as a refreshing dessert or snack option.
  • Low startup costs: Starting a shaved ice business requires relatively low startup costs compared to other food-related ventures.
  • Seasonal flexibility: Although shaved ice is often associated with summer, it can be enjoyed year-round, providing seasonal flexibility and the opportunity to establish a consistent customer base.

Overall, creating unique shaved ice dishes allows for endless flavor combinations and the opportunity to cater to a variety of customer preferences, making it a promising business idea for those looking for a fun and rewarding venture.

Opening A Shaved Ice Drive-thru

Have you ever tried a shave ice? If you haven't, you're definitely missing out. This sweet and refreshing treat is a dessert staple in Hawaii and is slowly making its way into the mainland. In fact, shave ice has become so popular that it has now become a viable business option - and not just any business, but a drive-thru, no less.

So, what exactly is a shave ice drive-thru? Simply put, it's a drive-thru establishment that specializes in serving shave ice. Customers can simply drive-up, order their favorite flavor or combination, and enjoy their treat on the go. It's like a fast food joint, but instead of burgers and fries, you get a sweet and icy concoction.

If you're looking for a unique and profitable business idea, opening a shave ice drive-thru might be worth considering. Here are some reasons why:

  • Low overhead cost - a shave ice drive-thru requires minimal equipment and can be run with a small staff.
  • Seasonal appeal - shave ice is a perfect treat for hot summer days, making it easy to attract customers during peak seasons.
  • Versatility - There are a wide range of flavors to choose from, so you can cater to a large demographic of customers.
  • Easy to market - You can easily create buzz around your drive-thru establishment through social media and word-of-mouth. Plus, its location can easily be promoted as a fun and convenient spot for families and younger crowds.
  • High-profit margins - shave ice has a high-profit margin, making it more feasible to generate a significant return on investment for the owner.

Of course, like any business idea, there are some potential challenges to opening a shave ice drive-thru. You'll need a prime location, clear signage, reliable suppliers, and a strong marketing strategy. However, with the right planning and execution, opening a shave ice drive-thru could be an exciting and rewarding adventure.

Nick

Founder and CEO

I'm Nick, co-founder of newfoundr.com, dedicated to helping aspiring entrepreneurs succeed. As a small business owner with over five years of experience, I have garnered valuable knowledge and insights across a diverse range of industries. My passion for entrepreneurship drives me to share my expertise with aspiring entrepreneurs, empowering them to turn their business dreams into reality.

Through meticulous research and firsthand experience, I uncover the essential steps, software, tools, and costs associated with launching and maintaining a successful business. By demystifying the complexities of entrepreneurship, I provide the guidance and support needed for others to embark on their journey with confidence.

From assessing market viability and formulating business plans to selecting the right technology and navigating the financial landscape, I am dedicated to helping fellow entrepreneurs overcome challenges and unlock their full potential. As a steadfast advocate for small business success, my mission is to pave the way for a new generation of innovative and driven entrepreneurs who are ready to make their mark on the world.