Dippin’ Dots LLC, the maker of ice cream and frozen treats, has signed a joint master licensing agreement with Wellness Hanshin Inc in Osaka for the exclusive marketing and distribution of Dippin’ Dots products throughout Japan.
The joint announcement was made by Dippin’ Dots President Scott Fischer and Junji Moritani, president of Wellness Hanshin. Wellness Hanshin is owned by Hanshin Electric Railway Co, a business segment of Hankyu Hanshin Holdings Group Inc.
“This agreement represents an exciting expansion for Dippin’ Dots on the international front,” said Fischer. “A top strategic initiative remains to increase the points of presence both domestically and internationally. We are achieving this goal through strategic marketing and distribution agreements with well-established, financially sound companies that have relevant experience in the entertainment and food and beverage industries, as well as a deep understanding of the local culture and consumers.”
“The ice cream market in Japan continues to grow, and impulse ice cream sales now exceed $4.8 billion annually,” said Moritani. “Dippin’ Dots has an opportunity to garner a growing share of this market. The addition of new locations will make the unique frozen treats conveniently accessible to consumers across the country and serve to elevate the presence of the Dippin’ Dots brand.”
The master licensing agreement will allow Wellness Hanshin to add numerous locations across Japan.
Supplying the Asian marketplace from an international manufacturing plant in South Korea, Dippin’ Dots created a dedicated group focused on pursuing and serving international opportunities.
The firm has produced and distributed its flash frozen tiny beads of ice cream, yogurt, sherbet, and flavored ice products since microbiologist Curt Jones invented the cryogenic process in 1988. Made at a production facility in Paducah KY, Dippin’ Dots’ frozen products are distributed in all 50 states and 11 nations, and the company employs 170 people.
