Always Ice Cream vs Tapioca Express
Franchise Comparison 2026
Both Always Ice Cream and Tapioca Express are quick-service restaurants franchises. Always Ice Cream requires an investment of $249K – $513K while Tapioca Express requires $250K – $509K. In terms of revenue, Tapioca Express reports higher average unit revenue at $713K. Note: Reported for a subset of outlets rather than the whole system. FranchiseVerdict rates Always Ice Cream C (Average) and Tapioca Express C (Average).
| Metric | Always Ice Cream | Tapioca Express |
|---|---|---|
| Verdict Grade | CAverage | CAverage |
| Investment Range | $249K – $513K | $250K – $509K |
| Franchise Fee | $30K | $30K |
| Royalty Rate | 6.0% | 4.0% |
| Average Revenue (Item 19) | $667KCompany-owned only | $713KOutlet subset |
| SBA Charge-Off Rate | N/A | Limited data |
| Total Units | 5 | 15 |
| Unit Growth (YoY) | +0 units | -4 units |
| Year Began Franchising | 2024 | 2002 |
| FDD Year | 2025 | 2025 |
Investment Range
$249K – $513K
$250K – $509K
Franchise Fee
$30K
$30K
Royalty Rate
6.0%
4.0%
Average Revenue (Item 19)
$667KCompany-owned only
$713KOutlet subset
SBA Charge-Off Rate
N/A
Limited data
Total Units
5
15
Unit Growth (YoY)
+0 units
-4 units
Year Began Franchising
2024
2002
FDD Year
2025
2025