A FAMILY INVESTMENT
Take your family to work and live the aloha together.
You will discover the joy of working together. Find meaningful collaboration with your partner, and set an example of hard work and sacrifice for your children. Let your family share in the ups and downs with you while investing in the future.
Hokulia is for all age groups. Children and adults, alike, can find pleasure in our hand-crafted Hawaiian treats and island atmosphere. Hokulia is the perfect family investment.
ESCAPE THE 9 TO 5
Take charge of your future and invest in yourself today.
As an owner of a successful business, you will find new freedom, fulfillment, and control of your life. Make your own schedule, choose your own employees, and make decisions for yourself.
We will be with you every step of the way. Once a franchisee, you will receive a week of in-person training with our corporate staff. Here you will learn from the experience of our corporate team and receive all the tools and systems necessary to get your business off the ground and build confidence in your own ability to succeed. You will learn about our systems of financial management, marketing strategies, hiring/firing employees, optimizing your schedule for greater profits, and becoming familiar with the products and procedures that make Hokulia the most authentic Hawaiian shave ice company on the mainland.
“GOOD IN, GOOD OUT.”
Customers can savor each bite knowing only the highest quality ingredients and procedures go into making our island-style desserts.
Experience volcanic explosions of flavor, and creamy scoops of paradise as you treat yourself to Hokulia’s authentic Hawaiian shave ice, super premium ice cream, and tropical smoothies.
SHAVE ICE
Hokulia syrups are made with 100% pure cane sugar, and flavoring imported from Hawaii. Our ice is shaved into fine ribbons of the softest snow. Add a scoop of ice cream, sweetened condensed milk, li hing mui powder, and coconut flakes to make this the perfect island treat.
SMOOTHIES
Our Hawaiian inspired recipes put the "smooth" in smoothie by using fluffy shave ice in the process. We also use real fruit in each smoothie to give customers a truly tropical experience.
PREMIUM ICE CREAM
Choose from one of our 30+ super premium Hawaiian and traditional ice cream flavors, and let your taste buds carry you away to an island escape.
The Business Model
4 Proven Business Models – Choose the investment level and lifestyle that fits you best
Already have a location in mind? See where we’re already successful
Non-Stop Smile Maker
We'll help you get started in a low cost business opportunity that offers the chance to achieve great profits while providing your customers with the greatest Hawaiian Shave Ice experience on the Mainland. Our recipes, combined with our Premium Ice Cream and proprietary systems, is what makes Hokulia authentic and unique. The reasonable investment level is from $65,000-$109,000.
Our inline brick and mortar stores offer our full line of Hawaiian inspired treats with the excitement of year-round revenue. This opportunity requires a retail space of approximately of 1,400 to 1,700 square feet. Depending on the cost of site development and tenant improvement money from the landlord, the initial estimated investment is between $185k and $300k. See Item 7 for full details about initial investment.
Drive-Thru
Create a long term asset with a container or prefab build. Utilizing a land lease is the way to insure your investment. No need to improve a landlord's property, you can keep or move this style of building with minimal cost of utilities and groundwork. Not only will you have a thriving business, but a long-term asset for you and your family. Initial investment costs will run similar to a brick and mortar store ranging from $180k-300k+ depending on similar factors.
Food Truck
Take this bad boy anywhere! This has proven to be a huge success as a standalone unit and as a companion to the brick and mortar store. Having a base of operations gives you more flexibility in product offerings according to the event. This allows you the versatility to offer ANY of our product lineup. Initial investment can rage from $85,000-$115,000.
Meet Our Franchisees
Our franchisees aren’t just business owners—they’re part of the Hokulia ohana (family). Hear directly from Sam and Terry about why they chose Hokulia and how the franchise has transformed their lives and communities.
Hear From Our Franchisee Sam
Why Terry Loves Hokulia
Frequently Asked Questions
How much can I make owning a Hokulia franchise?
Earnings vary significantly based on location, business model, operating season, and individual effort. Seasonal shacks in high-traffic tourist areas can generate strong summer revenues, while year-round brick and mortar locations provide consistent income across all seasons. Food trucks offer flexibility to chase events and maximize revenue opportunities. We encourage you to reach out to existing franchisees during the qualification process to validate individual success.
Do I need restaurant or food service experience?
No previous restaurant experience is required. We provide comprehensive multi-day training at our corporate headquarters covering all aspects of operations: product preparation, inventory management, staff hiring and training, marketing strategies, financial systems, and daily operations. Our proven systems are designed for first-time business owners.
What ongoing support does Hokulia provide?
Franchisees receive continuous support including: operations guidance, marketing materials and strategies, vendor relationships for equipment and supplies, recipe and product updates, seasonal planning assistance, and access to our experienced corporate team. We're invested in your success.
What are the ongoing fees?
Franchisees pay ongoing royalty fees and contribute to a national marketing fund. These fees follow industry standards, but specific percentages and fee structures are detailed in the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) which we provide to qualified candidates.
Can I own multiple Hokulia locations?
Yes! Many of our most successful franchisees operate multiple locations. Multi-unit ownership allows you to leverage systems, staff, and operational knowledge across locations. We encourage growth-minded entrepreneurs and offer support for expansion.
What territories are available?
We're actively expanding across the United States with an emphasis in Arizona, Texas, California and Florida. We currently have locations in California, Colorado, Florida, Idaho, Kansas, Missouri, Ohio, Texas, Utah, and Wyoming. Exclusive territory rights are granted based on demographics and market potential. Contact us to discuss specific markets.
How long does it take to open a Hokulia franchise?
Timeline varies by business model. Seasonal shacks can often open within 3-4 months of signing. Brick and mortar locations typically require 6-9+ months for site selection, build-out, permitting, and training. Food trucks may be operational in 4-6 months depending on equipment availability and local regulations.
What makes Hokulia different from other frozen dessert franchises?
Hokulia offers authentic Hawaiian shave ice - not ground snow cones. We use 100% pure cane sugar syrups with flavoring imported directly from Hawaii. Our partnership with Farr's Ice Cream (established 1929) gives us exclusive premium ice cream flavors you can't find anywhere else. We offer multiple revenue streams: shave ice, ice cream, smoothies, and catering. Plus, we have four different business models to fit various investment levels and lifestyle preferences.
Does Hokulia use natural or artificial food coloring?
Hokulia is transitioning to become the first national shave ice brand to use 100% natural dyes in all of our shave ice flavors. We're committed to being completely free of petroleum-based dyes and artificial coloring. Our natural color sources include fruits, vegetables, and plant-based ingredients that deliver the same vibrant colors families love - without synthetic chemicals. This transition reflects our dedication to providing the highest quality, healthiest product possible while maintaining the authentic Hawaiian shave ice experience.
Do I need to commit to this full-time?
This depends on your business model and goals. Seasonal shacks can work well for those seeking supplemental income or a summer business. Year-round brick and mortar stores typically require full-time dedication or a committed manager. Food trucks offer flexibility. Many franchisees involve family members, making it a true family business.
What are the next steps to become a franchisee?
1) Submit a qualification form to help us understand your goals and financial position. 2) Schedule a discovery call with our franchise team. 3) Review our Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD). 4) Visit an existing location or speak with current franchisees. 5) Review and sign the franchise agreement. 6) Begin training and site selection!
What financing options are available?
While Hokulia doesn't provide direct financing, our franchise qualifies for SBA loans through approved lenders. Many franchisees successfully secure financing through SBA 7(a) loans or taking advantage of their home equity and applying for a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC). We can provide guidance on lenders familiar with franchise financing and connect you with resources to help fund your Hokulia business.
