How Frozen Yogurt and Ice Cream Shops Can Maximize Business During Summer Vacation
Summer vacation is peak season for frozen treats. With the sun shining, school out, and families looking for ways to cool down and enjoy their free time, frozen yogurt and ice cream shops are in a prime position to thrive. But with increased competition and changing consumer habits, how can your shop stand out and bring in the most business?
Here are smart, proven strategies to make your shop the go-to summer destination for kids, teens, and families:
1. Create a Summer Kids Loyalty Program
Parents are always looking for fun, affordable activities during break—and kids love rewards. Launch a kid-friendly loyalty program where they earn stamps or points with each visit. After 5 or 10 purchases, they can redeem them for a free treat or fun prize (stickers, branded merch, small toys).
Pro Tip: Make loyalty cards colorful and interactive—like a summer treasure map or bingo board!
2. Host Weekly Events & Theme Days
Make your shop a summer hangout spot with scheduled events:
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Waffle Cone Wednesdays (discounted waffle cones)
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Frozen Yogurt Art Days (kids decorate their own cup)
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Ice Cream Happy Hour (2-for-1 deals from 2–4 PM)
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Sundae Creation Contests (kids submit photos of their best creation)
Events create buzz, encourage return visits, and give parents a reason to bring the kids in regularly.
3. Partner With Local Summer Camps & Daycares
Offer group discounts or deliver pre-packed frozen treats to local camps, daycares, and summer school programs. Better yet—host “field trip” days where groups can come in for a tour, try samples, and enjoy a treat.
This introduces your brand to dozens (or hundreds) of new young customers in one shot.
4. Create Instagrammable, Limited-Time Flavors
Kids and teens are natural marketers if you give them something worth sharing. Develop wild, colorful, or pop-culture-inspired flavors available only for a week or two:
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Galaxy Swirl
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Cotton Candy Explosion
Rootbeer Float
Use fun names, toppings, and in-store signage to highlight these, and encourage photos with a dedicated hashtag.
5. Stay Active on Social Media – Especially TikTok & Instagram
Show off your behind-the-scenes process, let kids vote on new flavors via polls, or post short, funny videos of unique sundae creations. Social media drives foot traffic when done right, and it’s where your young customers (and their parents) are spending time.
6. Offer Family Bundles and Take-Home Kits
Not every summer night ends with going out. Offer “Family Night” bundles—pints of ice cream or froyo with a variety of toppings in a to-go kit. Parents will appreciate the easy option for backyard parties, movie nights, or sleepovers.
7. Make Your Shop a Cool Escape
Is your shop kid-friendly? Consider adding:
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A shaded patio with games (giant Jenga, sidewalk chalk, cornhole)
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A selfie wall or mural for pictures
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A “kids corner” with books and coloring sheets
Create an experience—not just a transaction.
