Bruster’s History

Bruster’s Real Ice Cream was founded in 1989 by Bruce Reed, whose passion for fresh, high-quality food and stellar customer service runs deep. Bruce’s father, Jerry Reed, opened the legendary Jerry’s Curb Service in Bridgewater, PA, in 1947 after completing a tour of service in the U.S. Air Force. The quintessential carhop remains a staple in the Pittsburgh area.

Inspired by his father’s success, Bruce searched for a complementary business to open on the land adjacent to his family’s carhop restaurant. After carefully crafting his rich and creamy ice cream recipe, he opened the first Bruster’s for his sister to run.

Before long, Bruster’s became the neighborhood’s favorite ice cream store, and Bruce started franchising to friends and family in 1993. He was eager to make Bruster’s available nationwide.

While we’ve come a long way from those early days, we adhere to the guiding principles that have made Bruster’s the revered brand it is today. Every store continues to serve generous portions of our fresh-made ice cream to guests that we value like family.

bruster's real ice cream

Build a Legacy!

bruster's real ice cream corporate team

Join Our Family

As a Bruster’s Real Ice Cream franchisee, you become a valued member of our family, and since family is the foundation of our operation, that means something!

You will always have access to a tenured corporate team who will listen to you and provide guidance and support based on 200 years of combined experience. We provide the resources you need to grow as a leader and operate a profitable ice cream business.

In the spirit of operating as a family, we foster connections with other franchisees, including some who have been in the business for decades. Tapping into this wealth of knowledge will give you insight into best practices for growing your business and avoiding the pitfalls of small business ownership.

 

Why do it alone when you have an entire family to support you?

Achieve Your Goals!

Jim Sahene - Bruster's Real Ice Cream CEO

Bruster’s is One Sweet Business …Learn Why from Our CEO!

If you are curious about living the ice cream dream, no one is better qualified to give you insight than our very own CEO. Join Jim Sahene for a special one-hour conference, where you’ll learn all about opening an ice cream franchise with Bruster’s.

Jim has been part of the Bruster’s Real Ice Cream family for over two decades and has nearly 40 years in the frozen treat business. He’s truly a goldmine of knowledge!

Sign up for our next monthly CEO call, and we will be in touch with the details. No obligation, just information!