New York City Man Finds Success as Rita’s Franchisee
Rita’s Italian Ice franchisee, Gardi Armand, celebrates the Fourth of July by living out his American Dream. Although born in the U.S., Armand was raised in Haiti and didn’t return to live in the States until he attended college. Armand was in pursuit of success and sustainability that he felt the U.S. could bring him; for years, Armand worked hard as an IT specialist in the States, and in 2013, he was able to purchase a Rita’s franchise.
Armand was originally attracted to Rita’s because the Italian Ice reminded him of a popular Haitian shaved ice dish called fresco. For Armand, serving the sweet summer treat triggers his nostalgia, and he is proud to bring Rita’s products to his community.
“It’s a pleasure working with Rita’s,” says Armand. “They have everything laid out for their franchisees. There’s no need to reinvent the wheel, but as the franchisee you still have room to customize your business, which is great.”
Armand has so much enjoyed his experience with Rita’s that he is now looking to purchase more Rita’s locations and become a multi-unit franchisee. In the next few years Armand hopes to grow the Rita’s brand and open new locations in Queens, New York.
Now that warmer months are here, patrons are regularly stopping into their neighborhood Rita’s. Rita’s is best known for their tasty frozen treats, made fresh on the premises daily. With family favorites like Blendini®, Gelati and Misto Shakes, Rita’s is a franchise designed to last.