It is summer, and our hearts crave some coolers and ice cream!
Opening an ice cream parlor in India can be lucrative, as the demand for ice cream is always high in the country, especially during the summer months. According to a Research and Markets report, India’s ice cream market is expected to reach INR 508.4 Billion by 2028 and grow at a CAGR of 17.41% from 2021 to 2026.
But, but, but..to run a successful ice cream parlor, you need to have all the right equipment. So if you plan to start your own ice cream parlor, this blog is for you. We will discuss the essential equipment needed to create your parlor in India.
What Type of Ice Cream Parlour Do You Want?
When it comes to opening an ice cream parlor, there are two different models of operation you can choose from.
1. Ready-Made Ice Cream Parlor
These types of parlors sell pre-made ice cream purchased from a distributor or manufacturer. This option requires less equipment and is generally easier to set up and operate. You only need proper storage and display cabinets to run these shops.
If you are planning to buy an ice cream parlous franchise, then this will be the structure for your outlet.
2. Making Your Ice Cream Outlet
You will need to invest in more equipment and supplies if you plan to make your ice cream. However, this can give you greater control over the quality and flavor of your product. It can also help you stand out from competitors.
Equipment for Ice Cream Production
When you open an ice cream parlor where you make the ice cream, you will need these machines to produce it.
1. Batch Freezers
You can use a batch ice cream freezer to create the base mixtures that are the foundation for all ice cream flavors. Batch freezers quickly freeze the ice cream mixture while incorporating air, creating a light and fluffy texture.
Several types of batch freezers are available, including horizontal and vertical models, and each has unique advantages. With the right batch freezer, parlors can create a wide range of delicious and unique flavors that keep customers returning for more.
2. Soft Serve Machines
Soft-serve machines are another critical piece of equipment for parlors, especially those that serve soft-serve ice cream. These machines are designed to quickly freeze and dispense the ice cream mixture, creating a smooth and creamy texture that is easy to serve. It can also make other frozen desserts, such as yogurt and sorbet.
Ice Creams Equipment For Storage, Refrigeration, Dipping, and Display
And this is what you will need to store vast amounts of ice cream, keep it ready to serve, and also attract customers towards it!
1. Hardening Cabinet
You can store and harden freshly churned ice cream in hardening cabinets. After making the ice cream, it is transferred to the hardening cabinet and chilled at a lower temperature to achieve the desired hardness and texture. These cabinets are designed to maintain a constant temperature and humidity level, ensuring the dish hardens appropriately and doesn’t develop ice crystals or become too hard.
2. Walk-in Freezer
Walk-in freezers are necessary equipment for parlors that produce and store large quantities of ice cream. These freezers provide an ample walk-in space where ice cream can be stored and maintained at a consistent temperature for an extended period. This equipment is essential for parlors with a high demand for ice cream or making their in-house ice cream.
3. Chest Freezers
Chest freezers are a classic piece of parlor equipment used to store and display ice cream. They come in different sizes and capacities, allowing parlor owners to choose the right one based on storage and display needs.
Chest freezers are designed to maintain a constant temperature and humidity level, essential for preserving the texture and quality of the ice cream. These freezers typically have glass lids, allowing customers to see the available flavors without opening the freezer. Chest freezers are also a more affordable option compared to walk-in freezers, making them a popular choice for smaller parlors.
4. Dipping Cabinet
Storage dipping cabinets are used to store ice cream in bulk, keeping it at a constant temperature and ensuring that it remains fresh and ready for serving. They are designed with a large storage capacity and can accommodate a variety of ice cream container sizes. Some storage dipping cabinets also come equipped with sliding doors and adjustable shelves, making it easy to access and organize your ice cream inventory.
Investing in a high-quality storage dipping cabinet is crucial for any ice cream parlor looking to maintain a consistent and reliable supply of ice cream for its customers.
5. Visual Dipping Cabinet
These are dipping cabinets ordinarily found in a Baskin Robbins or Naturals parlor. Visual dipping cabinets showcase your flavors and attract customers, as they are designed with a glass display that allows customers to see the different flavors available.
Visual dipping cabinets also typically come equipped with interior lighting, making the flavors even more visually appealing. Investing in a high-quality visible dipping cabinet can help increase your sales by enticing customers to try new flavors and creating a memorable visual experience.
Tools You Need To Serve Your Ice Cream
And now, it’s time to serve, and you will need these pieces of equipment.
1. Scoops
Scoops are a must-have despite whatever type of dessert shop you own! Scoops usually have a non-ceramic coating and are available in different sizes, with designated numbers and colors for various ounce capacities.
2. Dishers
Dishes are another tool for serving ice cream, particularly soft-serve ice cream. They come with a thumb press that allows you to release the ice cream into a cup or cone.
3. Topping Dispensers
Toppings are a crucial part of the ice cream experience, and a topping dispenser is a great way to make it easy for customers to add their favorite toppings. Topping dispensers come in various sizes and shapes; you can choose one based on the type of toppings you serve.
4. Whipped Cream Dispensers
Whipped cream is a popular topping for ice cream, and a whipped cream dispenser is a great way to make it easy for customers to add it to their ice cream.
And, and, and one solution to help you solve all your ice cream parlor issues, is a robust POS system!
A fine POS (Point of Sale) system can provide numerous benefits in your ice cream parlor. It can help streamline operations, manage inventory, track sales, and simplify accounting. Additionally, it can improve customer service by allowing for faster and more accurate order-taking and the ability to accept various payment methods. Overall, a sound POS system can improve the efficiency and profitability of your ice cream parlor.
Starting an ice cream parlor in India can be profitable, but it requires careful planning and investment in the right equipment. Choosing the right equipment ensures that your ice cream parlor runs smoothly and gives customers a memorable experience.
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Ice Cream FAQs!
- Which are the most profitable Indian ice cream brands?
The ice cream business is booming in India & many homegrown brands are rising to the top. Some of them are Vadilal, Havmore, Amul, Gianis, and Aphsara. Click here to read more about well-known Indian ice cream franchises.
- Which state consumes the most ice cream in India?
Out of all states in India, Gujarat is the one place that consumes the most ice cream!
- Which are the most basic ice cream flavors?
Vanilla, strawberry, and chocolate are one of the best-selling & basic ice cream flavors.
