From Social Media Scroll to Multi-Unit Success: The Pecan Jacks Journey in Sarasota
Pecan Jacks Sarasota: Now Open at Fruitville
Farms & Lakewood Ranch
Taste the "Best of Georgia" now in Sarasota! Pecan Jacks Fruitville Farms offers artisan ice cream,
alcohol-infused flavors, and handmade pralines. Visit us today!
Imagine scrolling through Instagram and seeing a flash of color—artisanal pralines, creamy ice cream, and a brand that radiates joy. For Rosemarie and Milton Tembelis, that single moment was the start of a "blessed" new chapter.
We recently sat down with the Tembelis family at their brand-new Pecan Jacks Fruitville Farms location in the Lakewood Ranch community of Sarasota, Florida. After just four weeks of operation, the response has been nothing short of phenomenal.
"I’ve Never Tasted Better Ice Cream"
That is the number one comment the Tembelis family hears from customers walking through their doors. But for Rosemarie and Milton, seasoned business owners themselves, choosing a franchise required more than just a great-tasting scoop. They needed a
proven business model
and
unwavering support.
"The reviews were a big one for us," Milton explained. "We saw nothing but five-star reviews. Then we took the drive to 30A, met the founders, and tasted the product. The candy, the brittle, the alcohol-infused flavors—it was a no-brainer."
Support That Doesn't End at the Dotted Line
A common fear for prospective franchisees is that the "honeymoon phase" ends the moment the contract is signed. The Tembelis family's experience proves the Pecan Jacks difference.
- Real-Time Troubleshooting: Whether it’s a quick question or technical help, the corporate team (including founders Tim and Ronnie) is only a five-minute phone call away.
- Boots on the Ground: The founders were physically present at the Sarasota opening to ensure success.
- Scalability: Because of this robust support, Rosemarie and Milton aren't just stopping at one store—they are already multi-unit operators with a contract signed for their next location.
Why Sarasota and Lakewood Ranch?
In a state with constant sunshine, a premium dessert destination is a staple. However, Pecan Jacks offers something the competition doesn't: a sophisticated mix of handcrafted Southern confections and adult-friendly treats.
Advice for Prospective Franchisees
When asked what they would say to someone "on the fence" about joining the Pecan Jacks family, Milton’s advice was simple: "Come try it." The product speaks for itself, but the partnership is what builds the future. As Rosemarie noted, "It’s support from the start all the way through."
Ready to Write Your Own Sweet Success Story?
We are looking for passionate partners to help us spread smiles across the country. If you have the work ethic and a love for quality, we have the system to help you thrive.
Pecan Jacks Franchise: Frequently Asked Questions
What is the total investment required to open a Pecan Jacks?
The total estimated initial investment for a Pecan Jacks franchise ranges from $434,961 to $654,880. This includes the initial franchise fee, build-out costs, equipment, signage, initial inventory, and working capital.
What are the financial requirements to qualify?
To ensure our partners are positioned for success, we require:
- Minimum Liquid Capital: $100,000
- Minimum Net Worth: $400,000
What makes Pecan Jacks different from other dessert franchises?
Unlike traditional ice cream shops, Pecan Jacks is a dual-revenue model (Ice Cream + Candy Kitchen). Our differentiator is our high-end artisanal quality, featuring:
- Proprietary Recipes: Small-batch, handmade Southern pralines and brittles.
- Adult-Friendly Options: A signature line of 21+ liquor-infused ice cream flavors.
- SBA Approved: We are listed in the SBA Franchise Directory, which can help streamline financing for qualified candidates.
Do I need previous experience in the food or confectionery industry?
While a passion for sweets is required, you don't need to be a master confectioner. We seek partners with strong business acumen and a commitment to community engagement. Our "Pecan Jacks University" and hands-on training programs will teach you everything you need to know about our operations and recipes.
What kind of ongoing support will I receive?
We are a founder-led brand that treats our franchisees like family. Support includes:
- Site Selection: Expert guidance on finding high-traffic, "vacation-vibe" locations.
- Marketing: A localized launch package and ongoing brand-wide advertising support.
- 24/7 Access: Lifetime access to our online training portals and direct lines to our leadership team for troubleshooting.
What are the ongoing royalty and marketing fees?
- Royalty Fee: 6% of gross sales.
- Brand Marketing Fund: 1.5% of gross sales.
These fees go directly toward supporting the brand's national growth, technology updates, and innovative product development.
Can I own more than one Pecan Jacks location?
Absolutely. Many of our partners, like the Tembelis family in Sarasota, are multi-unit operators. We offer protected territories for those looking to scale their investment across a specific region.


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