What started in 2007 as one colorful shaved ice truck has grown into one of the largest mobile franchise brands in the world.
Over the years, Kona Ice has continued to evolve through new products, innovative equipment, expanded training programs, and a strong commitment to community involvement.
From introducing the original Flavorwave® to launching new mobile concepts and reaching communities across all 50 states, the Kona Ice story has always been about growth, innovation, and creating memorable experiences.
Take a look back at some of the biggest moments in Kona Ice history.
2007–2010: Where It All Began
In June 2007, the very first Kona Ice truck hit the streets of Boone County, Kentucky. During the early years, Kona Ice founder Tony Lamb focused on refining the business model, building the Kona Ice brand, launching kona-ice.com, and introducing innovations that would eventually define the customer experience, including the first version of the Flavorwave®.
By 2008, Kona Ice officially began franchising, awarding its first franchise locations and quickly gaining momentum nationwide.
During this early chapter, Kona Ice also:
2011–2015: Rapid Expansion
As the brand gained popularity, Kona Ice expanded quickly across the country. New trucks, new product offerings, and new training programs helped franchisees grow their businesses and strengthen the brand.
Key milestones during this time included:
By 2015, Kona Ice had firmly established itself as one of the fastest-growing shaved ice companies in the country.
2016–2019: Innovation & Brand Growth
Innovation remained a major focus as Kona Ice introduced new products, expanded flavor offerings, and enhanced the customer experience.
During this time, Kona Ice:
Throughout this period, Kona Ice consistently earned national franchise recognition, including #1 Franchisee Satisfaction rankings from Franchise Business Review and recurring placement on Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500 list.
2020: Adapting Through Change
When schools, festivals, and events paused in 2020, Kona Ice quickly adapted by finding new ways to serve neighborhoods and communities safely.
The company launched Kurbside Kona, an online ordering platform that allowed families to book neighborhood visits and preorder Kona Ice during uncertain times.
Even during a challenging year, franchisees continued delivering moments of fun and connection when communities needed them most.
2021–Today: A Mobile Franchise Powerhouse
Kona Ice has continued expanding its mobile franchise model through new technology, new products, and continued nationwide growth.
Recent milestones include:
During this period, the company also ventured beyond shaved ice with the introduction of additional mobile food and beverage brands: Travelin’ Tom’s Coffee Truck launched in 2021, followed by Beverly Ann’s Cookie Truck in 2023.
Today, Kona Ice has grown into the largest food truck company in the world and continues to expand its nationwide presence.
Looking Ahead
From one truck in 2007 to a nationwide franchise family, Kona Ice has always been about more than shaved ice. It’s about creating moments people remember and making a positive impact in the communities we serve.
And we’re just getting started.
Want to Be Part of the Kona Ice Story?
Learn how you can bring the Kona Ice experience to your community with a franchise built on fun, flavor, and giving back.
