Kilwins Expands to Arizona with New Stores in Phoenix and Scottsdale

The premium confectionery and ice cream franchise aims to capitalize on the state's business-friendly environment and population growth.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Kilwins, a Michigan-based premium confectionery and ice cream franchise, announced plans to expand into the Arizona market over the next three to five years, with a focus on opening new locations in Phoenix and Scottsdale. The company cited Arizona's business-friendly environment, consistent population growth, and year-round demand for frozen treats as key factors driving its decision to prioritize the state for expansion.

Why it matters

Kilwins' expansion into Arizona represents the company's efforts to grow its footprint and capitalize on favorable business conditions in the state. The Phoenix and Scottsdale markets, with their high-traffic, walkable retail districts and thriving tourism ecosystems, provide an attractive environment for Kilwins to establish its premium confections and ice cream offerings.

The details

Kilwins plans to introduce a smaller-footprint store model in 2026 to facilitate entry into new communities across the Southwest. The company is currently seeking multi-unit franchise owners to join its nationwide expansion. Kilwins currently operates more than 185 locations and is known for its open kitchen setting, where guests can watch fudge being paddled on marble tables and caramel cooking in copper kettles.

  • Kilwins announced its expansion plans on February 19, 2026.
  • The company aims to open new locations in Phoenix and Scottsdale over the next three to five years.

The players

Kilwins

A premium confectionery and ice cream franchise based in Michigan, with plans to expand into the Arizona market.

Brian Britton

The president and CEO of Kilwins, who noted that Arizona's climate and retail growth align with the company's requirements for experienced operators and new owners.

Rachel Kinser

A Kilwins franchisee who owns locations in St. Charles and Naperville, Illinois, and credits the company's internal programs for her ability to manage multiple stores.

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What they’re saying

“Arizona supports strong unit economics and year-round demand for ice cream and our premium confections, driven by a steady climate and favorable operating conditions and is a market with high-traffic, walkable retail areas.”

— Brian Britton, President and CEO of Kilwins (9and10news.com)

“Kilwins makes it easy to hit the ground running. Their comprehensive support, training and marketing programs give franchisees all the tools they need to succeed. With that foundation in place, I can focus on running my stores and delivering the premium treats and seasonal offerings that keep guests coming back.”

— Rachel Kinser, Kilwins franchisee (9and10news.com)

What’s next

Kilwins is currently seeking multi-unit franchise owners to join its nationwide expansion, including in the Arizona market.

The takeaway

Kilwins' decision to expand into Arizona, with a focus on Phoenix and Scottsdale, demonstrates the company's strategic approach to growth, leveraging the state's business-friendly environment, population growth, and year-round demand for its premium confections and ice cream offerings.