LINCOLN SQUARE — Want to own an ice cream shop?
Kilwins, the Michigan-based fudge-chocolate-ice cream emporium, is looking for a franchisee to open a location in Lincoln Square after an initial partner had to back out of a nearly done deal.
"We've already got the floor plan worked out, we've got everything figured out — hopefully somebody steps forward," said Steve Titus, Kilwins vice president of franchise development.
Kilwins and the original prospective franchisee had been working on a deal since November to lease the storefront at 4621 N. Lincoln Ave. formerly occupied by Fine Wine Brokers, which closed in August 2015, he said.
The landlord "really likes our use," according to Titus, and is giving Kilwins a grace period to find a new partner.
Titus hosted an open house at the Lincoln Square site over Easter weekend and said numerous people expressed interest in the business.
Kilwins was founded in 1947 in Petoskey, Mich., by Don and Katy Kilwin, who sold the company in 1978. In 1982, Kilwins began franchising, and there are now more than 100 stores in 21 states, with Michigan and Florida being notable strongholds.
Lincoln Square would be the third Kilwins in Chicago — the first opened in Hyde Park, and the second is set to open on South Michigan Avenue across from the Art Institute.
Lincoln Square "would be ideal," said Titus.
"It's really just a happening place with a great vibe," he said, pointing to the renovated Davis Theater and Carbon Arc restaurant as major draws.
If a franchisee is found, Titus estimated a build out would take five to six months — just in time for Kilwins to debut its caramel apples at Lincoln Square's Apple Fest.
"We would love to be a part of that," he said.
Kilwins, the Michigan-based fudge-chocolate-ice cream emporium, is looking for a franchisee to open a location in Lincoln Square. [DNAinfo/Patty Wetli]
Kilwins is hoping to open at 4621 N. Lincoln Ave., formerly occupied by Fine Wine Brokers, which closed in August 2015. [DNAinfo/Patty Wetli]
