Proper equipment for an ice cream shop is essential for it to run smoothly and offer a variety of delicious, customer-attracting desserts. By investing in modern machines and functional accessories, you can offer a wide range of products: starting from ice creams – such as soft serve and twist ice cream, granitas, waffles, coffee, as well as various cakes and sweet desserts.
Check what is the essential equipment for an ice cream parlour, choose the best ice cream machines, and see how easy it is to take care of the decor and promotion of your ice cream parlour. If you’re wondering how to open an ice cream shop and equip it well, you’ve come to the right place!
The ice cream machine is the heart of any ice cream parlour, which is why its selection is one of the key steps in planning a business. Regardless of whether you choose new or second-hand equipment, it’s worth paying attention to key parameters that will affect the quality and efficiency of your work. An important aspect is also the choice between a soft serve ice cream machine and a twist ice cream machine.
The machine type should match the type of ice cream you plan to serve in your ice cream parlour. The best machine for making soft serve ice cream is one equipped with an aeration pump, which will give the ice cream the right creamy, fluffy consistency. If you decide to serve twist ice cream, opt for a machine specifically designed for this type of ice cream. This type of machine offers much lower freezing temperatures, resulting in ice cream with a compact structure that you can easily shape into tall spirals.
When purchasing an ice cream machine, it’s important to pay attention to the number of flavours (usually 2+mix) that you can serve simultaneously, the capacity of the tanks, and if it has a stirrer. It is also important to match the power supply – the machine may require a voltage of 230V or 400V. An essential function is night cooling, which allows the ice cream mixture to be stored in the machine until the next day. Before purchasing the selected machine, check its performance (how many portions of ice cream you can prepare per minute), availability of servicing and spare parts, in case you want to carry out servicing yourself.
Also, pay attention to cooling system – machines can be equipped with water, air, or water-air cooling, which affects performance and operating costs. Check if the device is equipped with sensors that will alert you when it’s time to refill the machine with the ice cream mix, as well as a portion counter that makes it easier to monitor sales. Important parameters also include cylinder capacity, number of units, and the presence of a cleaning support system that significantly speeds up operation and facilitates device maintenance.
The choice between a countertop machine and a freestanding one depends on the available space, the intended load, and the type of ice cream you plan to serve. Countertop machines stand out for their compact size, making them the ideal solution for smaller establishments or locations where ice cream is just a part of the menu. However, in the case of an ice cream parlour, where ice cream is the main product sold, a more efficient freestanding machine will definitely perform better.
If your budget is limited, it is worth considering the purchase of a second-hand machine. On the market, you can find equipment in very good technical condition, which significantly reduces initial costs. However, it is crucial to ensure that the equipment has been properly serviced and is fully operational.
Choosing the right machine will not only ensure high quality of the ice cream you offer, but also optimise the serving process – which is crucial, especially during the peak season.
Although ice cream is mainly associated with the summer season, a well-planned menu can ensure that the ice cream parlour operates successfully all year round. The key to success is diversity and creativity in serving ice cream and other desserts. During the cooler months, ice cream can be served in unusual forms, such as ice cream burgers, paired with a warm apple pie, or as a topping for iced coffee.
An ice cream parlour is also a great place for other sweets. It is worth expanding the menu to include waffles, cakes, or seasonal desserts, such as hot chocolate with whipped cream or fruit cups. Thanks to a well-developed menu that meets the changing needs of customers, the ice cream parlour can attract guests regardless of the season. This strategy makes running an ice cream shop a stable and genuinely profitable business all year round.
Introducing a wide range of offerings to an ice cream shop, so that it can operate year-round, requires equipping the venue not only with ice cream machines but also with additional devices and equipment. Thanks to them, you can serve not only ice cream but also other products such as granitas, waffles, coffee, or seasonal desserts.
Here is a list of equipment and devices that are worth equipping an ice cream parlour with:
• Ice cream machines – essential for making your own soft serve or twist ice cream.
• Granita maker – for serving granitas made from natural fruit juices
• Waffle iron – for making sweet as well as savoury waffles.
• Coffee machine
• Accessories (fruit chopper, jug blender, cream whipper)
• Furniture and basic catering equipment, work surfaces
The estimated cost of equipping an ice cream shop ranges from approximately EUR 15,000 to 34,100. It is worth noting, however, that the amounts provided are approximate and may vary depending on whether you choose to go for second-hand equipment. There are many devices available on the market that are in good condition and can be just as efficient as new ones, but their prices are much more affordable.
| Equipment | Cost (EUR) |
| Ice cream machines | 3,000-15,000 |
| Coffee maker | 2,500 – 7,000 |
| Commercial Furniture | 700 – 2,500 |
| Kitchen equipment | 3,000 – 9,000 |
| Accessories | 200 – 600 |
Operating an ice cream parlour involves meeting stringent health and safety regulations. The premises must include, among other things:
• washbasin for handwashing with hot and cold water,
• double basin sink
• cleaning equipment (e.g. mops, disinfectants)
• Stock of work clothing and footwear stored in a designated area.
Additionally, catering furniture should be made of stainless steel, which ensures not only ease of cleaning but also durability and optimal hygiene at work. If you plan to serve drinks or desserts using dinnerware, glass bowls, etc., it will be necessary to invest in a dishwasher that can safely sterilise the dishes.
It is worth remembering that professional equipment and the proper arrangement of equipment elements are not only the foundation of success for every ice cream parlour but also essential for safety.
The interior aesthetics of every ice cream parlour is a key element in attracting customers. Bright, pastel colours, motifs that evoke summer and freshness, along with a well-thought-out space, invite you in. It is worth to create a harmonious decor by using ready-made solutions such as posters, menu boards, or decorations available in the marketing section on the ice cream manufacturer’s website.
Ready-made materials, prepared by specialists tracking design trends, are a tremendous convenience, especially since ice cream parlour owners often do not have the time to create them themselves. Posters featuring appealing dessert photos and modern menu boards help boost sales while maintaining the visual standards of the establishment. Remember that professionals developing such materials tailor them to current taste standards and confectionery trends, making them attractive and encouraging customers to make a purchase.
When planning the entire equipment for the ice cream parlour, keep a few key aspects in mind:
• Ergonomics and functionality– equipment should be arranged in a way that facilitates work. When the distance between devices is too great, it prolongs the order preparation process.
• Quality equipment – choose professional gear from reputable manufacturers. Although it is more expensive, it is also more durable and reliable. It is also worth investing in equipment made from stainless steel, which is durable and resistant to intensive use.
• Aesthetics – both the catering furniture and accessories should be in harmony with the decor of the venue.
• Space for customers – if the venue offers on-site consumption, ensure comfortable tables, chairs, and… air conditioning. In today’s times, its installation is not a significant cost, yet it can greatly enhance the comfort of both employees and guests.
• Operating costs – choose devices that have lower energy consumption. This will help lower your monthly bills.
Opening an ice cream parlour can a challenge, but proper planning, choosing professional equipment, and using ready-made marketing materials can greatly simplify the entire process. Thanks to the comprehensive equipment of the ice cream parlour and the support of professionals, your venue can become a favourite spot for soft serve ice cream and other desserts fans. Should you have any further questions, we are here to help – please feel free to reach out.
