If you've ever wondered what you need to do or how to start an ice cream business then you've come to the right site. This three part training and tip series walks you through all the necessary steps in opening a frozen dessert store. In part one of the series we talked about having an idea or concept about a frozen dessert store and finding a location. All very important parts in differentiating yourself from the other competitors out there. Though a lot of people have ideas and concepts for a store they quickly hit a wall when it comes to financing the business to open it and keep it afloat. Financing is key and you need to have enough capital available on hand to stretch a couple of months or else you won't be in business long. 

In part two of the series we discussed moving out of the concept and design phase and into the actual building of the store. In this stage you'll have to meet with architects and contractors  to build the store as well as work with your local township in acquiring all the necessary permits and codes. While all the construction is going on you can be working on your menu and recipe development and design. This is where you need to work out your recipes, know what's going to be on your menu and start working with your distributors and wholesalers.

Now that you are close to the finish line with all the above steps, it's time to start developing your marketing and advertising plan. Develop a marketing plan for your store that makes sense. What are you going to do about your grand opening? What key community partners can we work with? Finish the aesthetics of your store before you open. The layout and aesthetics of the store are all about building your brand. Does the customer know what store they're waling into? Have you logo and branding everywhere. Your store marketing should also include SEO (search engine optimization), a social media strategy, website development and design.

Also, one of the most important parts to your success and failure as an frozen dessert store is your employees. Find out more about how your employees will make or break you by watching the video above. 

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