The Original Rainbow Cone Franchise

Investment Range
$386,125 - $3,299,550​
Liquid Capital Required
$250,000
Net Worth Required
$500,000
Franchise Fee
$40,000
Investing in a Rainbow Cone franchise offers an incredible opportunity to join a beloved brand with deep roots in Chicago and a growing presence in new states like Florida, Arizona, Texas, and California. The Original Rainbow Cone is known for its unique flavors—Palmer House, orange sherbet, pistachio, strawberry, and chocolate—stacked into iconic cones, sundaes, and slices that generations of customers have enjoyed. Under the leadership of the Buona Companies, also known for Buona Beef restaurants, franchisees benefit from robust support, a passion for quality, and strong demand in expanding markets like Tennessee, Colorado, and Nevada. Whether you choose a free-standing shop with a drive-thru or an in-line store the Rainbow Cone offers flexibility to grow your business in familiar and untapped markets like Wisconsin, Michigan, Indiana, and Missouri. With a proven model, satisfied customers, and a chance to share this one-of-a-kind experience, now is the time to join a successful brand and capitalize on its unlimited potential for growth.
The Original Rainbow Cone Franchise

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About The Original Rainbow Cone

The Rainbow Cone franchise has a rich history rooted in passion and tradition, beginning with the creation of the Original Rainbow Cone by Grandpa Joe in 1926. The unique combination of orange sherbet, pistachio, Palmer House, strawberry, and chocolate scoops on a single cone quickly became a staple for families in Chicago’s Beverlyneighborhood. Over time, the business grew to satisfy customers across multiple generations, driven by a commitment to quality and a one-of-a-kind product. The company, now helmed by Joe Buonavolanto III, has expanded the brandinto exciting new states and markets, including Florida, Texas, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, California, Colorado, Minnesota, Nevada, Missouri, Tennessee, Wisconsin, and Iowa. From free-standing shops with drive-thru options to in-line setups and compact kiosks, the franchise offers flexibility to meet varying customer demand while continuing to serve iconic sundaes, cake slices, and the beloved cone.

Under the leadership of the Buona Restaurant family, known for their Buona Beef success, Rainbow Cone has focused on creating a thriving business model for franchisees. With a significant investment in construction, training, and operational support, the company has made it easier for entrepreneurs to join the Rainbow Cone family and share its magic with the world. The number of signed agreements continues to grow, reflecting the brand’s success and the potential it offers in both established and emerging markets. Franchisees benefit from the company’s familiar and proven approach, with detailed information and ongoing guidance available to ensure satisfied customers and thriving businesses. As Rainbow Cone’s shop locations expand, the focus remains on delivering the same joy, passion, and timeless treats that have been loved for decades, ensuring that people everywhere can live the experience of an Original Rainbow Cone.

The Original Rainbow Cone Training and Support

New Rainbow Cone franchisees benefit from a comprehensive training and support program designed to ensure success and maintain the integrity of the Original Rainbow Cone brand. Founded in Chicago and beloved for generations, Rainbow Cone has grown to serve customers in markets like Florida, Texas, Arizona, Indiana, Michigan, and Ohio, with plans to expand into new states like California, Tennessee, and Nevada. The brand’s training program combines hands-on learning and virtual resources to familiarize franchisees with every aspect of the business. Franchisees will learn to scoop the iconic Palmer House, pistachio, chocolate, orange sherbet, and strawberry slices onto the signature cone, prepare sundaes, and create the customer-favorite slices that have made Rainbow Cone a household name. From free-standing locations and drive-thrus, to in-line shops, the program equips franchisees to adapt to various markets and customer demands while incorporating the family passion that has made the company an enduring success.

Led by seasoned experts like Joe Buonavolanto III, Rainbow Cone’s support extends far beyond initial training. Franchisees receive guidance in site selection, construction, and operational setup to maximize their investment potential. Drawing from the success of Buona Beef and Buona Restaurant brands, Rainbow Cone provides marketing support tailored to specific states, from Colorado and Minnesota to Missouri and Wisconsin. Whether opening in the heart of Beverly, California, or a small-town shop in Iowa, franchisees are backed by a robust network and a proven system for growth. The program ensures franchisees can satisfy the growing demand for Rainbow Cone’s iconic scoops and slices, leaving customers delighted and ready to share their experiences. With training that fosters a deep connection to the brand and its mission, new franchisees are poised to grow their business while preserving the legacy that Grandpa Joe began.

Why The Original Rainbow Cone

The Rainbow Cone franchise offers a unique opportunity to join a beloved brand with deep roots and an exciting future. Founded by “Grandpa Joe” in Beverly, Chicago, the Original Rainbow Cone has delighted generations with its iconic cone featuring layers of chocolate, strawberry, Palmer House (New York vanilla with cherries and walnuts), pistachio, and orange sherbet. The company’s success lies in its ability to create lasting memories with its signature scoops, sundaes, and slices, which customers love to share with friends and family. Now expanding to new states like Florida, Texas, and California, Rainbow Cone is looking for franchisees to bring this cherished experience to eager customers in high-demand markets like Nevada, Arizona, and Tennessee. With flexible options like free-standing shops, in-line setups, and kiosks, franchisees can find the perfect fit for their investment while benefiting from the growing demand for premium desserts.

The ice cream industry is a sweet business to be in, and Rainbow Cone stands out with its one-of-a-kind product and brand loyalty. Under the leadership of Joe Buonavolanto III, the company has leveraged its history and passion to create a scalable model that supports franchisees at every step. Whether it’s building new locations in Michigan, Colorado, or Missouri, or enhancing convenience with drive-thru services, the company is committed to growth and innovation. Rainbow Cone’s connection to Buona Restaurants, known for Buona Beef, ensures franchisees have access to seasoned expertise in operations, construction, and marketing. With the strong support system, reasonable fees, and the ability to grow in markets like Indiana, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Ohio, and beyond, Rainbow Cone offers potential franchisees an opportunity to open their doors to satisfied customers and achieve long-term success. Now is the perfect time to join this colorful legacy and share the magic of Rainbow Cone with the world.