#United States #Detroit #Cold Stone Creamery #Kahala Brands

Cold Stone Creamery Accelerates Its Expansion in Michigan

Cold Stone Creamery®, a leading ice cream franchise in the United States, is ramping up its expansion efforts across Michigan. The brand plans to establish between eight to twelve new locations over the next four years, building on its current footprint of 27 stores throughout the state.

The exciting development comes as Cold Stone Creamery experiences significant growth out of its recognition as one of Yelp's 2026 Fastest-Growing Restaurant Brands, reflecting a soaring consumer demand that the brand aims to satisfy with new franchise opportunities. Blake Borwick, the brand leader at Cold Stone Creamery, shared insights into the company’s strategic focus on Michigan, particularly around the Detroit metropolitan area. He explained, “Michigan continues to be an exciting market for us, particularly as the Detroit metro area experiences renewed economic growth and investment.”

The company understands that there is a considerable group of loyal fans who currently travel extensive distances just to enjoy their signature ice cream, and the goal is to bring Cold Stone Creamery closer to those communities that have expressed a strong interest.

A prime example of this ongoing effort is observed in Plymouth, a Detroit suburb, where a new location is already under construction and set to open this fall. Another Michigan location has been awarded and is progressing through the early development stages.

Kyle Welch, a franchise partner who manages four locations in Michigan, noted the vast potential in the market, emphasizing the passion locals have for the Cold Stone brand. His experience shows that as new businesses, restaurants, and residents invest in Michigan communities—especially around the Detroit area—the opportunity for Cold Stone to reach even more families grows immensely.

Cold Stone Creamery promotes a flexible and scalable franchise model that revolves around its premium ice cream, unforgettable guest experiences, and comprehensive operational support. Franchise owners benefit from established systems, advanced tools, and dedicated guidance, ensuring they can navigate their growth effectively and meet their business objectives.

Currently, Cold Stone Creamery is on the lookout for qualified candidates to assist in this ambitious expansion wave in Michigan. The brand offers flexible opportunities suitable for both new entrepreneurs and seasoned multi-unit operators. To kickstart a venture with this fast-growing franchise—boasting over thirty years of experience—the initial franchise fee for establishing a traditional Cold Stone Creamery location is set at $27,000.

If you’re interested in becoming part of Cold Stone Creamery’s journey in expanding its presence in Michigan, you can find more information about franchising opportunities on their official franchise website.

Cold Stone Creamery prides itself on delivering the Ultimate Ice Cream Experience®, supported by a network of dedicated franchise owners passionate about ice cream. Each batch of smooth and creamy ice cream is handcrafted on-site and customized with a variety of mix-ins on a cold granite stone. Headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona, the company is a subsidiary of Kahala Brands™, among the most rapidly growing franchising companies globally. Presently, Cold Stone Creamery operates nearly 1,500 locations in approximately 30 countries, contributing to Kahala's extensive portfolio of nearly 30 fast-casual restaurant brands managed internationally.

For more details about the Cold Stone Creamery brand, visit ColdStoneCreamery.com.

This information is based on the 2026 Cold Stone Creamery Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD). Please consult the current FDD for full details.