If you’re considering the idea of opening an ice-cream shop, you’re likely headed into a very lucrative business. The love for ice-cream in Australia is ever-growing, and it’s estimated that about 95% Australians eat it at least a few times a year. But Australians’ love for ice-cream isn’t going to guarantee your success in the ice-cream making industry, so there are a couple of factors you’ll have to consider before you dive in it.

First and foremost, you have to consider whether you want to be an independent or a franchised ice-cream store. Both of these options have a distinct advantage. If you team up with a franchise, you’ll get assistance in almost every aspect – from employee training, to store layout and design, ingredients, choosing supplies and getting a professional ice cream machine. However, this may cost you a lot of money up front.

If you decide you want to operate independently on the other hand, you’ll have more freedom regarding the types of ice-cream you want to make, the professional ice cream machine you want to buy, and the systems you’ll incorporate into the store. You’ll also have more flexibility in the amount of money you want to invest in it, but you’ll have a steeper learning curve.

Next, you’ll need to consider the menu, as well as the target audience of your store. While granted, everyone enjoys ice-cream, the location of your store can certainly help you promote and focus on specific types of ice-cream. Soft-served ice cream is one of the more popular types among kids, while artisan ice-cream may do better in affluent neighborhoods. Moreover, consider whether you want some unique tastes, or tastes that are already proven to be popular among the people in your area.

Furthermore, you’ll have to put a computerised point of sale system, one that’s specially designed for an ice-cream store, which can help you track sales, inventory and everything in between. A point of sale system will ensure you keep up with the demand, as well as avoid under or overcharging your customers.

Lastly, you’ll probably need a permit from your town/city. You can find most of the requirements and permits that you will need at your city’s health department. There are specific requirements on health, cleanliness, garbage, plumbing, ventilation, pest control and restroom access, among many others. With that being said, opening an ice-cream shop can be a very complicated and long process, but if done right, it can be a very rewarding and fun experience.