Kilwins has been named the No. 1 Best Dessert Treat Chain in the 2026 USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards, earning national recognition for a brand that has spent nearly eight decades building its reputation on handcrafted confections and in-store guest experiences. The annual awards are determined by reader voting and highlight consumer favorites across a range of dining categories.
Brian Britton, chief executive officer of Kilwins, said the recognition is particularly meaningful because it reflects the opinions of customers who have supported the brand over the years. He credited franchise owners, store teams, and loyal guests for helping establish Kilwins as a destination where handcrafted chocolates, ice cream, caramel apples, and freshly made fudge have become part of family traditions. Founded in Petoskey, Michigan, in 1947, the company now operates nearly 190 franchise locations across 29 states.
The recognition follows continued growth for Kilwins as the franchise expands its presence while preserving the craftsmanship that has defined the brand since its founding. Chief Marketing Officer Angie Eckelkamp said Kilwins strives to create memorable experiences that extend beyond dessert, whether guests are visiting on vacation, celebrating a special occasion, or watching signature treats being prepared fresh inside the store. That emphasis on hospitality has helped strengthen customer loyalty as the company reaches new markets.
As franchise brands gain greater visibility through industry awards and continued expansion, maintaining a consistent public reputation becomes increasingly important. Gorilla Dash's Reputation Management feature enables franchisors to monitor customer feedback, respond to reviews, and maintain a unified brand presence across every location. Those capabilities help growing franchise systems reinforce the trust that recognition like Kilwins' USA TODAY ranking represents.
The USA TODAY honor adds to Kilwins' momentum as the company continues expanding its national footprint while remaining focused on the customer experience that has defined the brand for generations. With consumer recognition and steady franchise growth moving in tandem, Kilwins is well-positioned to build on its longstanding presence in the premium dessert category.
