Dippin’ Dots

Dippin’ Dots is a well-established name in the frozen dessert industry, renowned for its distinctive beaded ice cream. The company was founded in 1988 by Curt Jones, a microbiologist who introduced a novel way to enjoy ice cream by flash-freezing dairy mixtures into small, colorful beads using liquid nitrogen. This innovative approach set Dippin’ Dots apart and quickly gained traction in popular venues like amusement parks, stadiums, and malls both in the United States and abroad.

In its early years, Dippin’ Dots experienced rapid growth, securing a patent for its unique freezing process in 1992. By 1995, the company had ventured into international markets, with Japan being its first overseas destination. Despite encountering significant challenges, including a patent dispute and a Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing in 2011, Dippin’ Dots displayed resilience. The acquisition by Scott and Mark Fischer in 2012 marked a turning point, as they expanded the brand through new retail concepts and the acquisition of Doc Popcorn, allowing for dual-branded locations.

A pivotal moment came in June 2022 when J&J Snack Foods Corp. acquired Dippin’ Dots for $222 million. This acquisition ushered in a new phase of growth and innovation for the brand. As of November 2025, Dippin’ Dots operates in over 14 countries, with more than 120 franchise and company-owned locations. The brand continues to evolve, recently launching a co-branded flavor collaboration with Dr Pepper, which highlights its ongoing commitment to creativity and adaptability.

Dippin’ Dots focuses on expanding through franchise and co-branded concepts, targeting high-traffic areas such as malls, stadiums, amusement parks, and non-traditional sites. The company’s strong brand recognition and unique product format make it an attractive tenant for commercial real estate professionals. With flexible store formats and a history of successful partnerships, Dippin’ Dots is a credible and scalable presence in entertainment, retail, and travel destinations. The company's franchise program, initiated in 1999, remains a cornerstone of its growth strategy, offering a proven model in the quick-service dessert segment.