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The Dolly Llama signs franchise group to expand ice cream waffle brand nationwide

November 11, 2019

The Dolly Llama, which operates four ice cream waffle outlets in Los Angeles, recently signed DCV Franchise Group as its franchising partner to expand the brand to markets across the country, including food trailers. 

"The Dolly Llama was designed to be a modern dessert shop where customers from all walks of life can enjoy authentic, hand-crafted waffles and ice cream in a cool, hip, unique, and most importantly, fun environment," Eric Shomof, co-founder, said in a press release. "Having proven ourselves by dominating the ice cream and waffle scene in one of the most competitive markets in the country, Los Angeles, we are thrilled to be working with DCV to continue to grow and expand the concept into other major U.S. markets."  

The brand has established three different franchising models: 

• Brick-and-mortar: The brick-and-mortar store model, which ranges from 1,200 to 2,000 square feet, offers the full menu along with a dining room.
• Kiosk: The kiosk model offers the full menu, but can be scaled to the atmosphere. The standard Dolly Llama kiosk is 250 to 300 square feet and is the most suitable model for food courts or smaller locations that share a common seating area or outside venue such as a park.
• Mobile trailer: The food trailer model is a mobile kitchen where all cooking, storing and preparation equipment is designed inside a health department approved food trailer that can be located at strategic locations. This model is designed for bringing The Dolly Llama’s menu to events, parties, and festivals, while further generating brand awareness.

The brand offers European flavors and techniques, such as Belgian waffles using traditional methods, and the Hong Kong Bubble Waffle prepared with a special batter that produces a unique crispy and custard-like texture. 

The four waffle styles, OG Liege Waffle, Waffle Stick, Bubble Waffle and Bubble Waffle Jr., are the base of the interactive menu of waffle and ice cream desserts, ice cream waffle sandwiches, waffle sticks and a "build your own" menu. Signature Shakes are another brand staple. The Dolly Llama also periodically introduces chef-curated and customer-inspired limited-time creations released in conjunction with holidays.

Image courtesy of Dolly Llama.