How Do I Get Commercial Ice Cream Shop Contracts?
- Nate Jones, CPCU, ARM, CLCS, AU
- Sep 24
- 3 min read
If you're starting or growing an ice cream shop business, landing commercial contracts can be a powerful way to scale. These contracts—whether with schools, corporate offices, event venues, or retail stores—offer consistent revenue and long-term growth.
At Wexford Insurance, we specialize in helping ice cream shop owners protect their businesses with tailored ice cream shop insurance. In this guide, we’ll walk you through actionable steps to help you secure commercial contracts and grow your dessert brand.
Steps to Get Commercial Ice Cream Shop Contracts
Step 1: Define Your Commercial Services
Start by clearly outlining what you offer to commercial clients:
Bulk ice cream tubs for resale
Catering services for events
Mobile ice cream cart or truck rentals
Packaged ice cream for retail shelves
Create a commercial service menu with pricing, delivery options, and minimum order requirements.
💡Explore Ice Cream shop Menu guide
Step 2: Build a Professional Brand Presence
Businesses want to work with vendors they trust. Make sure your brand reflects professionalism:
Launch a clean, mobile-friendly website
Include testimonials and case studies
Showcase your packaging, flavors, and service options
Use high-quality photos and videos
Professional Support That Helps You Grow Your Ice Cream Shop
Building a strong brand and customer experience is key to attracting more foot traffic and winning catering or event contracts. Contractor Back Office helps ice cream shop owners present their business professionally by managing essential tools—so you can focus on serving delicious treats and scaling your operations.
Our Services Include:
Bid & Estimate Management – For catering, events, or wholesale opportunities.
Website Design & Management – Showcase your flavors, shop location, and story.
Social Media Management – Engage your community and grow your following with sweet content.
Step 3: Network with Local Businesses and Institutions
Start building relationships with potential commercial clients:
Attend food expos, wedding fairs, and vendor markets
Join your local chamber of commerce
Reach out to schools, universities, and corporate offices
Connect with event planners and caterers
Step 4: Offer Free Samples and Tastings
Let decision-makers experience your product firsthand:
Deliver sample packs to offices or schools
Host pop-up tastings at local events
Offer discounted trial catering packages
Include brochures, business cards, and a clear call to action.
Step 5: Create a Commercial Proposal
When a business shows interest, send a formal proposal that includes:
Scope of services
Pricing and payment terms
Delivery schedule
Cancellation and refund policies
Step 6: Register as a Vendor
Some institutions require you to be an approved vendor before doing business:
Check with local schools, universities, and government agencies
Complete vendor registration forms
Submit required documents (business license, health permits, etc.)
💡Read More: District vendor registration guide
Step 7: Follow Up and Build Relationships
After submitting your proposal or samples:
Follow up with a thank-you email
Ask for feedback
Stay in touch with seasonal promotions or new offerings
Building long-term relationships is key to repeat contracts.
Protect Your Business with Ice Cream Shop Insurance
Once you start working with commercial clients, having proper insurance is essential. Many contracts require proof of coverage. Wexford Insurance offers:
Commercial Property Insurance – Covers equipment, inventory, and fixtures.
General Liability Insurance – Protects against customer injuries or accidents.
Equipment Breakdown Coverage – Covers repair or replacement of freezers, mixers, and more.
Workers’ Compensation Insurance – Required if you hire employees.
Commercial Auto Insurance – If you operate a mobile ice cream truck.
Final Thoughts
Getting commercial ice cream shop contracts takes preparation, networking, and persistence. By offering a clear value proposition, building relationships, and presenting your brand professionally, you can unlock new revenue streams and grow your dessert business.
At Wexford Insurance, we help ice cream shop owners succeed with tailored insurance solutions for the food service and hospitality industry. Whether you're just starting or expanding into commercial contracts, we’re here to support you.
