Orange Juilius

Orange Julius is a well-known beverage brand that originated in Los Angeles in 1926, when Julius Freed developed its signature frothy orange drink. The company became a fixture in American malls during the 1960s and 1970s, operating hundreds of locations across the United States, Canada, and several international markets. This early expansion established Orange Julius as a pioneer in quick-service beverage retail, particularly in high-traffic retail environments.

A major turning point came in 1987, when International Dairy Queen acquired Orange Julius. Since then, the brand has operated exclusively under Dairy Queen’s corporate structure, which itself became part of Berkshire Hathaway in 1998. Orange Julius no longer expands independently; instead, its presence is maintained through co-branded Dairy Queen stores and select Treat Centers. As of December 2023, there are 962 locations, almost all of which are integrated within the Dairy Queen portfolio rather than as standalone units.

Over the past five years, Orange Julius has focused on consolidating its footprint rather than pursuing new market entries or standalone development. The brand’s evolution mirrors broader trends in the quick-service sector, where specialty concepts are increasingly housed within larger multi-brand platforms. For landlords, brokers, and developers, Orange Julius represents a stable and recognizable beverage offering that typically complements Dairy Queen’s food and treat formats. The brand’s enduring reputation and integration with Dairy Queen’s operational model make it a reliable component for retail environments seeking established national tenants. Orange Julius remains a part of the modern quick-service landscape, valued for its historical influence and continued consumer recognition, even as its growth posture emphasizes consolidation over expansion.