Dairy Queen

Soft‑serve formula developed by John Fremont McCullough and sons in 1938; first store opened June 22, 1940, in Joliet, Illinois

First franchises started in early 1940s; expanded rapidly—100 locations by 1947, 2,600 by 1955.

Brazier concept introduced in 1957; Blizzard Treat launched in 1985; acquired by Berkshire Hathaway in 1998.

Achievements & Growth

• Surpassed 6,800 locations globally and $3.6B USD in revenue in previous years.
• Launch of DQ Grill & Chill® concept in 2001 broadened menu and revenue streams.
• Maintains strong philanthropy via Miracle Treat Day, raising funds for children’s hospitals annually since 1984.

Specialties & Unique Selling Points

• Signature Blizzard brand and dessert-first identity differentiate from competitors.
• Balanced combination of frozen treats and fast-food offerings under one roof.
• Nostalgia-rich brand with multigenerational appeal.
• Regional autonomy (e.g. Texas operators maintain local menu identity and branding).
• Future‑oriented support including app-driven engagement and Next Gen designs.

Franchise Model Explained

• Offers two distinct models: DQ Treat (desserts-only) and full-service DQ Grill & Chill®.
• Franchise agreements typically 20 years, with renewal +/- extension options.
• Extensive support: real estate planning, construction guidance, grand-opening assistance, and ongoing marketing.
• Training: ~32 hours classroom + extensive on-the-job experience (100–140+ hrs).
• Ideal franchisees: deep financial capacity plus operational acumen; not semi-absentee ownership.