La Michoacana is much more than just an ice cream parlor or ice cream shop: it’s an iconic brand that evokes tradition, flavor, and a unique business model . Born in Mexico, this brand has expanded not only in the country, but also in the United States, where it continues to attract investors. But what makes La Michoacana so special? In this article, we will explore its origins, the business model that sets it apart, the products it offers, and we will analyze the possibilities of investing in a La Michoacana franchise in the United States.
The history of La Michoacana: a legacy of Tocumbo
La Michoacana was born in Tocumbo, Michoacán, in 1940, when Rafael Malfavón and other local entrepreneurs decided to create a popsicle business made with fresh seasonal fruit. Unlike other desserts, Malfavón’s popsicles contained pieces of fruit, giving them an unmatched flavor that quickly captivated their customers. Thanks to his success, Malfavón began to teach the trade to other young people in his community, and thus the idea spread. Soon, the inhabitants of Tocumbo founded their own ice cream shops, using the name “La Michoacana” and taking this concept of artisanal ice cream parlor throughout Mexico.
Although La Michoacana is not centralized under a single owner or has a formal franchise structure, the brand has grown thanks to the collaboration and entrepreneurial spirit of the Tocumbo community. Many inhabitants of the town supported the expansion by offering accessible loans to open more ice cream shops, thus consolidating a network of stores that we know today as La Michoacana.
Products and services of La Michoacana: flavor and variety
Over the years, La Michoacana has expanded its menu to include a variety of products. Although fresh fruit popsicles are still the star product, they also offer ice cream, ice cream and aguas frescas.
In addition, some establishments adapt their menus with snacks such as nachos, popcorn and other foods, depending on local demand. This flexibility allows each store to maintain a unique touch without losing the traditional essence.
The flavors of La Michoacana have managed to maintain the interest of the public thanks to their artisanal quality and constant innovation. Some of its most popular flavors include mango with chili, strawberries with cream and tamarind, flavors that evoke the freshness and tradition of Mexico.
Business model: what makes La Michoacana unique?
La Michoacana is distinguished by a business model that combines flexibility and tradition. Although some locations in the United States and Mexico operate under the name “La Michoacana” or “La Real Michoacana,” there is actually no centralized franchise structure, which has allowed for massive expansion of the brand. This lack of formal regulation has resulted in the name “La Michoacana” becoming a generic term in many areas, with venues operating under names such as “La Nueva Michoacana” or “La Michoacana del Portón.”
In some cases, companies in the United States have structured the brand under a more traditional franchise model, offering support in operation and marketing. However, these franchises can vary in costs and conditions, due to the non-centralized nature of La Michoacana’s original model.
How much does a La Michoacana franchise cost in the United States?
For those interested in investing in a La Michoacana franchise in the U.S., it is important to note that not all ice cream shops that bear this name are part of an official franchise system. Some companies have adapted the business model and offer franchises with operational and administrative support, but requirements and costs can vary widely depending on the location and the company managing the franchise.
The initial investment in a La Michoacana franchise in the United States can include establishment costs, marketing, and operating expenses. These costs can vary considerably, and there is no single official figure due to the decentralized structure. In addition, some franchise models may require ongoing marketing expenses, which are usually based on a percentage of gross sales.
How much can a franchisee from La Michoacana earn?
Since La Michoacana’s business model is flexible and lacks a centralized structure, a franchisee’s income varies. In some cases, the stores have proven to be profitable businesses, especially in areas with a high density of Latino populations that already know the brand. However, specific revenue may depend on factors such as the location of the location, product offerings, and the franchisee’s ability to attract and retain customers.
How to acquire a La Michoacana franchise in the United States
If you are an immigrant and are considering investing in a La Michoacana franchise in the United States, keep in mind some important points. First, investigate if the franchise has operational support, as this can make a difference in the success of the business. Also, evaluate the local competition and consider if you have a community of customers that will support the offer of traditional Mexican products. And, of course, make sure you have a good understanding of the financial terms, including ongoing costs and the percentage of sales going to marketing, if applicable.
Is La Michoacana a franchise for you?
La Michoacana is a business with a rich history, which combines tradition and flexibility in its expansion model. For investors looking to enter the U.S. popsicle market, this type of business can be attractive, especially if you have the knowledge of the market and evaluate local conditions.
However, due to the decentralization of the model, Interlink FBC recommends researching each franchise opportunity individually, or looking for alternative franchises that are regulated by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the entity that protects investors through regulations that ensure transparency in the business model and in the franchisor-franchisee relationship.
Interested in exploring this or any other franchise investment opportunity in the United States? At Interlink FBC we have specialists ready to help you evaluate your franchise options and maximize your chances of success in the U.S. market. Schedule a free initial consultation now.
