Cold Stone Creamery

Cold Stone Creamery is a prominent American ice cream chain celebrated for its unique approach to crafting made-to-order ice cream on a frozen granite slab. The company was founded in 1988 by Donald and Susan Sutherland in Tempe, Arizona, with the vision of offering a distinct ice cream experience that was neither hard-packed nor soft-serve. This original store in Tempe still operates today, highlighting the brand's lasting appeal.

Cold Stone began franchising in 1995, rapidly expanding its presence across the United States and beyond. By 2008, the brand had established itself in Europe, and by 2012, it had ventured into Asia and Africa, opening stores in locations such as Singapore and Nigeria. As of November 2025, Cold Stone Creamery boasts over 900 U.S. locations and more than 1,300 globally, spanning North America, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. The company is headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona, a move made in 1997 from its original Tempe location.

Owned by Kahala Brands, a subsidiary of MTY Food Group, Cold Stone Creamery is known for its innovative ice cream offerings, such as the introduction of cake batter ice cream in 2003 and the pioneering of the mix-in concept. Over the past five years, the brand has maintained a steady growth trajectory, focusing on franchise development both domestically and internationally. This growth often occurs through co-branded locations and strategic partnerships, allowing Cold Stone to adapt to various retail environments.

For commercial real estate professionals, Cold Stone Creamery represents a credible and attractive tenant due to its significant scale, strong brand recognition, and versatile store formats. The company continues to explore new franchise opportunities and locations, emphasizing its adaptability and robust support infrastructure, making it a valuable addition to high-traffic retail corridors and lifestyle centers.