Company Overview - Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory has been recognized as one of the top 500 franchises in Entrepreneur's Franchise 500® for 2026, ranking No. 415 due to its performance in unit growth, financial strength, operational support, and brand power [1][3] - The company has been producing premium chocolates and confectionery products since 1981 and operates over 250 stores across the United States, with additional international locations [4] Industry Insights - The Franchise 500® has been a key resource for potential franchisees for 47 years, serving as a competitive measure for franchisors and a research tool for prospective franchisees [2][3] - The ranking is based on a cumulative score derived from over 150 data points, including costs, size, franchisee support, brand strength, and financial stability [2]

Core Insights - Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory has been recognized as one of the top 500 franchises in Entrepreneur's Franchise 500® for 2026, ranking No. 415 due to its performance in unit growth, financial strength, operational support, and brand power [1][3]. Company Overview - Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. is a leading franchiser of premium chocolate and confectionery retail stores, producing a wide range of products since 1981 [4]. - The company operates over 250 stores across the United States and has several international locations, with its common stock listed on the Nasdaq Capital Market under the symbol "RMCF" [4]. Franchise Ranking Significance - The Franchise 500® has been a key measure of franchise excellence for 47 years, serving as a resource for potential franchisees and a competitive benchmark for franchisors [2][3]. - The ranking is based on a comprehensive analysis of over 150 data points, including costs, growth, franchisee support, brand strength, and financial stability [2].

Core Insights - The company is focusing on a margin-first transformation strategy, exiting lower-margin revenue streams to prioritize profitability, resulting in improved gross profit and margin [2][5] - A significant milestone was achieved with a new Area Development Agreement to open 34 new stores, indicating strong franchise interest and alignment with the company's strategic direction [3] - The company raised $2.7 million in equity capital to strengthen its financial position, reduce leverage, and enhance liquidity for operational investments [3] Financial Performance - Total revenue for Q3 FY26 was $7.5 million, down from $7.9 million in the same quarter last year, primarily due to the exit from lower-margin channels [5] - Gross profit increased to $1.4 million in Q3 FY26 from $0.7 million in the prior year, driven by pricing actions and improved product mix [5] - The net loss narrowed to $0.2 million or $(0.02) per share in Q3 FY26, compared to a net loss of $0.8 million or $(0.11) per share in the year-ago quarter [5][17] Operational Developments - The company has over 120 franchise stores operating on a new point-of-sale platform, enhancing visibility into customer behavior and store performance [4] - New digital capabilities, including third-party delivery and catering service integration, are being implemented to improve off-premise access while maintaining favorable economics for franchise partners [4] - The company is actively pursuing new franchise opportunities supported by improved digital marketing strategies [3]

Core Viewpoint - Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory Inc. will host a conference call on January 14, 2026, to discuss its fiscal third quarter 2026 results, with a press release to be issued prior to the call [1]. Group 1: Conference Call Details - The conference call will take place on January 14, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. Eastern time [2]. - Attendees can submit questions in advance via email to the investor relations team [2]. - The call will be available for live broadcast and replay on the Company's investor relations website [3]. Group 2: Company Overview - Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. is a leading franchiser of premium chocolate and confectionery retail stores, producing a wide range of products since 1981 [4]. - The Company operates nearly 250 stores across the United States and has several international locations, ranking in Entrepreneur's Franchise 500 for 2025 and Franchise Times' Franchise 400 for 2024 [4]. - The Company's common stock is listed on the Nasdaq Global Market under the symbol "RMCF" [4].

Core Insights - Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. has announced a significant milestone in its transformation strategy with the rollout of a new store prototype and the signing of four area development agreements for a total of 34 new stores, representing nearly 25% growth in full franchise stores, marking the largest development surge in the company's history [1][3][9] Company Strategy - The new store prototype emphasizes handcrafted chocolate making, featuring a warm interior design and in-store sampling of fresh products made daily, supported by improved operational systems and an upgraded franchise platform [2][3] - The transformation strategy is described as a reaffirmation of the company's heritage and craft, aiming for national growth through sophisticated multi-unit operators [3][9] Franchise Development - The company is experiencing strong interest from franchise operators, with a disciplined sales strategy and improved operational processes contributing to this acceleration [3][9] - Current franchise commitments include a nine-store development plan in Southeast Florida and a ten-store agreement in the greater Chicago metro area, showcasing the brand's appeal to experienced operators [4][5][6] Market Expansion - The first new prototype store opened in Charleston, SC, with plans for eight additional stores across Charleston, Denver, and Santa Fe, indicating a strategic focus on key markets [7][9] - The company is also returning to Central New Jersey with a seven-store plan, highlighting its commitment to re-establishing a presence in regions where it once thrived [8][9] Company Overview - Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. is a leading franchiser of premium chocolate and confectionery retail concepts, operating over 250 stores across the United States and several international locations [10]

Core Insights - Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory is launching a new prototype store on King Street from November 13-15, featuring an immersive chocolate experience that engages all five senses [1][3] - The store design includes a modern layout with warm wood accents, an expanded ice cream counter, and signature handcrafted chocolates, maintaining the brand's heritage [2][3] Company Overview - Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. is a leading franchiser of premium chocolate and confectionery retail stores, producing a wide range of products since 1981 [5] - The company operates over 250 stores across the United States and has several international locations, with its stock listed on the Nasdaq Global Market under the symbol "RMCF" [5] Grand Opening Details - The grand opening will feature a ribbon-cutting ceremony on November 13 at 10 a.m., along with promotions such as free caramel apples or truffles with purchases over $25 [4] - Additional activities include a Golden Ticket Giveaway, free samples, and exclusive giveaways throughout the weekend [4]

Core Insights - Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. is actively engaging with investors through participation in the Southwest IDEAS Investor Conference and media interactions, highlighting its commitment to transparency and communication [2][4] - The company is recognized as a leading franchiser in the premium chocolate and confectionery retail sector, operating over 250 stores in the U.S. and several international locations [3] Company Overview - Founded in 1981, Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory produces a wide range of premium chocolates and confectionery products, including gourmet caramel apples [3] - The company is headquartered in Durango, Colorado, and has been ranked among Entrepreneur's Franchise 500 for 2025 and Franchise Times' Franchise 400 for 2024 [3] - The common stock of the company is listed on the Nasdaq Global Market under the symbol "RMCF" [3] Upcoming Events - The company will present at the Southwest IDEAS Investor Conference on November 19, 2025, in Dallas, Texas, at 2:40 p.m. CT, and will host one-on-one meetings throughout the day [4] - The presentation will be available via live webcast on the company's investor relations website [4] - An interview featuring the company's Interim CEO Jeff Geygan and CFO Carrie Cass was recently aired on the Pitch the PM Podcast [4]

Core Viewpoint - Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. is undergoing a transformation aimed at modernizing its operations and achieving scalable growth, with early signs of progress being observed [2] Financial Performance - Total revenue for the second quarter of fiscal 2026 increased to $6.8 million, up from $6.4 million in the same quarter last year, driven by pricing actions and a more profitable sales mix [5] - The company reported a gross profit loss of $33,000 in the second quarter of fiscal 2026, compared to a profit of $600,000 in the year-ago quarter, primarily due to higher input costs and operational inefficiencies [5] - Total costs and expenses remained flat at $7.3 million compared to the previous year [5] - The net loss for the second quarter was $0.7 million, or $(0.09) per share, compared to a net loss of $0.7 million, or $(0.11) per share, in the year-ago quarter [5] Operational Initiatives - The company is focusing on strengthening operations and enhancing visibility through new ERP and POS systems, which are expected to facilitate data-driven decisions [2] - A rebranding initiative and new store developments are underway, with two new franchise locations announced in California and New Jersey, and a company-owned location in Camarillo, California [2] - The company plans to introduce a new loyalty program and expand digital capabilities to improve customer engagement for franchisees [2] Company Overview - Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. is a leading franchiser of premium chocolate and confectionery retail stores, operating over 250 locations across the United States and several international locations [7] - The company has been recognized in Entrepreneur's Franchise 500 for 2025 and Franchise Times' Franchise 400 for 2024 [7]

Core Points - Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory Inc. will host a conference call on October 14, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. Eastern time to discuss its fiscal second quarter 2026 results [1] - The management team will lead the call, which will include a question-and-answer session [2] - The conference call will be available for live broadcast and replay on the Company's investor relations website [3] Company Overview - Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. is a leading franchiser of premium chocolate and confectionery retail stores, known as America's Chocolatier™ [4] - The Company has been producing a wide range of premium chocolates and confectionery products since 1981 and is headquartered in Durango, Colorado [4] - The Company operates nearly 250 stores across the United States and has several international locations, ranking in Entrepreneur's Franchise 500 for 2025 and Franchise Times' Franchise 400 for 2024 [4]

Core Insights - Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory Inc. is expanding its retail presence with two new locations in California and New Jersey, aligning with its strategic growth objectives [1][5]. Company Expansion - The new store at Palladio Mall in Folsom, California will feature the full assortment of RMCF's premium chocolates and handcrafted selections, showcasing an updated store design [3]. - The Jersey Shore Premium Outlets in Tinton Falls, New Jersey will introduce RMCF's elevated retail experience, targeting both year-round residents and seasonal visitors [4]. Franchisee Partnerships - The expansion includes partnerships with current franchisees, Jessica Feurerbach and David Seemer, who will own the new locations, reinforcing RMCF's commitment to supporting excellent operators [5]. Brand Mission - RMCF aims to make its premium chocolate accessible to a growing audience of chocolate lovers across the United States through these new openings [5]. Company Background - Founded in 1981 and headquartered in Durango, Colorado, RMCF is a leading franchiser of premium chocolate and confectionery products, operating over 250 stores in the U.S. and several international locations [6].