Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream is preparing to enter Illinois for the first time through a multi-unit franchise agreement that will bring three locations to the Chicago suburbs of Elgin, Geneva/St. Charles and Algonquin. The expansion represents another milestone for the Ohio-founded brand as it continues to grow its footprint across new markets throughout the United States.
Leading the development effort is Castro Rafeedie, an Ohio native whose connection to the brand dates back to his childhood. Rafeedie brings more than a decade of restaurant operating experience, including ownership of a pizzeria in Dublin, Ohio. His familiarity with Handel’s brand and his ties to the greater Chicago area positioned him as a natural choice to introduce the concept to Illinois consumers.
The agreement reflects Handel’s broader growth strategy, which has accelerated in recent years through a series of multi-unit development deals across emerging and established markets. The company has expanded into numerous new territories, strengthening its position as one of the fastest-growing ice cream franchise brands in the country.
Jennifer Schuler, Chief Executive Officer of Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream, said experienced operators remain central to the company’s expansion efforts. She noted that franchisees who understand both the brand and their local communities help create a strong foundation for long-term success as Handel’s enters new regions.
As franchise organizations grow into new territories, maintaining operational consistency becomes increasingly important. Solutions such as Gorilla Dash’s Knowledge Base can help franchisors centralize training materials, operational procedures, and brand standards. At the same time, the Resource Library provides franchisees with easy access to important documents and business resources across multiple locations.
For Handel’s, the Illinois expansion represents more than the opening of new stores. It signals the continued appeal of a brand built on fresh-made products, experienced operators, and a disciplined growth strategy designed to introduce its signature ice cream experience to new communities across the country.
