Behind every ice cream cone served at Bruster’s Real Ice Cream in Georgia is a story shaped by persistence, partnership and a belief in the power of community. Franchisees Josh Barrett and Erin Krall have turned a familiar neighborhood treat into a growing local enterprise, guided by a hands-on approach and a deep appreciation for the brand’s culture. What began as early work experience has evolved into multi-unit ownership rooted in connection and consistency.
Barrett’s introduction to Bruster’s came at his father’s store in Woodstock, where he first learned that the business was about more than frozen desserts. Serving customers, he discovered that the brand’s appeal lay in its ability to create small moments of joy. Krall, who began working with Bruster’s as a teenager, later joined forces with Barrett, bringing operational insight and steady leadership to the partnership. Together, they combined customer focus with disciplined management to strengthen their foundation.
After assuming ownership of the Woodstock location, the pair expanded into Canton and Roswell, steadily building their footprint across the region. Their growth has been deliberate rather than hurried, with attention to staffing, service standards and local engagement. Recently, they introduced a mobile ice cream trailer that allows them to participate in community events, private gatherings and celebrations, extending the brand’s reach beyond traditional storefronts.
Corporate support from Bruster’s has played an important role in their progress. Training, marketing resources and operational systems have provided a framework that enables them to concentrate on day-to-day execution and team development. For Barrett and Krall, that balance between independence and structure has been essential to maintaining quality while scaling responsibly.
As competition continues in the dessert category, their strategy remains centered on product craftsmanship and genuine hospitality. By investing in their stores and their communities, they have demonstrated that franchise growth can be both commercially sound and locally meaningful. In Georgia, their success suggests that even in a crowded market, thoughtful expansion and community connection still matter.
