Retail
Financial summary
Comparable pricing
36% above marketComparable Retail businesses sell at a median of 2.7x SDE, based on 609 listings. This one asks 3.7x, about 36% above that median. At the comparable median it would price ~$589K.Methodology refines over time.Comparable Retail businesses sell around $589K vs this $800K ask.
Methodology refines over time.
SBA financeability
Businesses in retail trade are commonly SBA-financed. The figures below are the industry-category norm from SBA 7(a)/504 lending, a gauge of how financeable a deal like this tends to be.
Retail Trade benchmarks
Typical SBA leverage
71%
Industry charge-off
2.2%
Common term
10 yr
Median loan
$250,000
Active lenders in this category: The Huntington National Bank, U.S. Bank, National Association, TD Bank, National Association.
Based on 13,075 SBA loans · source: SBA 7(a)/504 FOIA, as of 2026Q1 · industry-category level.
Detailed information
Priced below 1.5x revenue.
Linked page lives on the broker site, not on OpenAcquisitions.
Key points
Business description
Established Ice Cream Retail Business Absentee Operated | Management in Place | Proven Cash Flow | Self-Funded or Seller Financing Available | No SBA Required | Seller Seeking Fast Close Executive Business Overview This opportunity represents the acquisition of an established, operating retail dessert business currently run on an absentee basis with management and staff already in place. The owner is not involved in daily operations , making this a compelling opportunity for a buyer seeking cash flow without hands-on management . The business operates under the Cold Stone Creamery system , providing operational consistency and brand-driven demand, while day-to-day execution is handled at the store level. Key Financial Snapshot Annual Gross Sales: ~$841,000 Seller’s Discretionary Earnings (SDE): ~$217,000 Operating Model: Absentee / Semi-Absentee Staffing: Manager + hourly staff in place These financials reflect a stable, operating business , not a turnaround or startup concept. Absentee Ownership Model (Core Value Proposition) This location is already structured for absentee ownership . Current Operating Reality Owner is not present day-to-day Store is managed by an on-site manager Staff operate independently Scheduling, ordering, and opening/closing handled without owner involvement This structure significantly reduces transition risk and allows a new owner to step directly into a management-led operation . Management & Staff Continuity Current manager has expressed willingness to remain post-sale Staff are accustomed to operating under a management structure No operational dependency on the seller This provides immediate continuity for: Semi-absentee buyers Multi-unit operators Investors balancing other businesses or careers Final retention discussions will occur during buyer meetings and due diligence. The Business — Not Just the Franchise From a buyer’s standpoint, this opportunity is about acquiring a running retail business with proven performance , including: Established revenue Predictable customer traffic Proven operating systems Brand-driven demand Known cost structure The franchise provides operational infrastructure and brand support , while the value lies in the existing cash-flowing operation . Simple, Repeatable Operating Model Operational complexity is relatively low compared to many food concepts: No cooking or fryers No chef-dependent execution Limited SKUs Predictable preparation and service flow Short staff training ramp This simplicity is a key reason the business performs successfully under absentee ownership . Revenue Mix & Stability The business benefits from multiple revenue streams, including: In-store retail sales Custom ice cream creations Ice cream cakes (higher-margin planned orders) Grab-and-go items Catering, parties, and seasonal events Operator Insight: Cake orders and catering often represent additional upside under engaged ownership. Labor Profile & Risk Mitigation No specialized kitchen labor required Easy-to-hire part-time staff Clear operating procedures Manager oversees daily operations This reduces exposure to labor volatility and minimizes owner burnout risk . Brand & Demand Advantage While this is positioned as a business sale , the brand provides meaningful advantages: Built-in customer trust Repeat family-driven demand Strong seasonal and holiday traffic Brand marketing support driving foot traffic These factors reduce customer acquisition risk and support stable sales performance . Upside Without Reinventing the Business Growth does not require major operational changes. Common Value-Add Opportunities Optimizing hours and labor efficiency Expanding cake and catering sales Developing local partnerships Incremental operational improvements These are execution-based improvements , not speculative changes. Ideal Buyer Profile This opportunity is well suited for: Absentee or semi-absentee buyers Business owners seeking diversification Multi-unit franchise operators Investors seeking stable cash flow No restaurant or ice cream industry experience required. Broker’s Perspective This is a clean acquisition of a cash-flowing, absentee-operated retail business with management and staff already in place, producing approximately $841K in annual revenue and $217K in Seller’s Discretionary Earnings. The buyer is stepping into continuity — not chaos. Confidential Sale Process NDA required Financials available to qualified buyers Store visits by appointment only No contact with staff or customers Contact Broker Ralph “RJ” Galdorisi 516-707-4670 rg@eastcoastbusinessbrokers.com
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