A Chilling Success: How One Company Turned Shaved Ice Into a Thriving Business

Eight years ago, Kayla and her brother Isaac were bit by the entrepreneurship bug and decided to open a lemonade and cookie stand. Together, the brother and sister duo found success and sold out of their product entirely. Their parents were shocked to hear the news from their young children, to say the very least.

After they celebrated their success, the family decided it was time to consider the next steps.

“Then we thought ‘On a hot day, what does someone want,’” Kayla said. And the answer was indeed, snow cones.

Kayla has continued to grow by incorporating technology into this small business. Utilizing a text notification system, she can inform over 650 people that her company will be open and where they can find her on any particular day.

The impact of Sno Cones goes beyond the realm of a business success story. It’s a tale of a local teacher who followed her passion, embraced risk, and built an empire of refreshment and joy. Sno Cones isn’t just a regular snow cone business, but a symbol of summer, community, and the sweet taste of success.

Related: How To Start a Snow Cone Business in 2023

Key Takeaways and Tips

Starting a snow cone business can be a fun and potentially profitable endeavor, especially in areas with warmer clients or hot summers. Here are some factors to consider when opening a snow cone business:

• Market Research: Identify your potential customer base and competition in the area where you plan to set up. Understanding the demographics and preferences of your potential customers will help you make key decisions about your business, from product offerings to pricing and location.
• Location: A snow cone business thrives in high-traffic areas. Consider locations near parks, beaches, schools, or along busy streets. A mobile cart or kiosk could be a good option as it offers flexibility. Make sure to research local zoning laws and health department regulations for food businesses.
• Equipment and Supplies: Identify the equipment you’ll need, such as an ice shaver, serving containers, spoons, napkins, etc. Consider the initial cost and ongoing expenses, and make sure you have reliable suppliers for your syrups and other materials.
• Product Offering: Snow cones are traditionally pretty simple, but you can differentiate your business by offering a variety of unique and delicious flavors. You could also consider adding related products like ice cream, or even providing options for dietary restrictions like sugar-free syrups.
• Business Plan: Develop a detailed business plan that outlines your strategy, costs, projected income, and marketing plans. This document will not only guide your business decisions but will also be necessary if you seek external funding.
• Legal Requirements: You’ll need to apply for necessary permits and licenses to operate a food business, and you’ll need to understand the local health codes. Depending on your location, you might also need a seller’s permit, a food handler’s permit, or a food enterprise license.
• Insurance: Given that you will be dealing with the public, consider getting liability insurance to protect your business from potential claims.
• Marketing and Branding: Have a clear and attractive brand that people can identify with. Social media and local events are good places to start promoting your business. Word of mouth can also be a powerful tool in this industry.
• Customer Service: In the food and beverage industry, customer service is paramount. Train your staff to be friendly, helpful, and efficient.
• Seasonality: Keep in mind that a snow cone business is often seasonal, so you’ll need a plan for how to operate (or what to do during the off-season) when the weather gets cold.

Remember, the success of your snow cone business will depend on detailed planning, good decision-making, and hard work.

Inspiring Conclusion

The story of Kayla and Isaac is a great reminder that we can be successful at any age. Starting a snow cone business can be beneficial if you know your target market, have strong communication with your key market, and understand that seasonality is an important factor.

Remember, the success of your snow cone business will depend on detailed planning, good decision-making, and hard work.