September 23, 2026 // Franchising.com // PETOSKEY, Mich. — Kilwins, the premium ice cream and confections franchise known for its hand-crafted chocolates, hand-paddled fudge and super-premium ice cream, has been named the No. 1 Best Ice Cream Chain of 2026 in the Newsweek Readers’ Choice Awards.
Kilwins earned the top spot among 20 ice cream brands selected for consideration by Newsweek’s panelists and contributors and ultimately voted on by readers. The national recognition places Kilwins ahead of other well-known ice cream brands, including Cold Stone Creamery, Ben & Jerry’s, and Graeter’s.
“This recognition is incredibly meaningful because it reflects the experiences our guests have with Kilwins every day,” said Brian Britton, CEO of Kilwins. “For nearly 80 years, we’ve remained committed to creating exceptional ice cream and confections while delivering the warm, memorable experience that has defined Kilwins for generations. Earning the No. 1 spot from Newsweek readers is a tremendous honor and a reflection of the passion of our franchise owners, team members and loyal guests across the country.”
Founded in Petoskey, Michigan, in 1947, Kilwins has built its reputation on premium ingredients, time-honored recipes and traditional confectionery craftsmanship. Kilwins' Original Recipe Ice Cream, with its ultra-creamy texture and rich flavor, is a cornerstone of the Kilwins experience. It's served alongside hand-crafted chocolates, fudge, caramel apples, brittle and other confections.
The in-store experience remains equally central to the brand. Guests can watch fudge being hand-paddled on marble tables, caramel cooking in copper kettles, caramel apples being hand-dipped and fresh waffle cones being made, creating the sights and aromas that have become synonymous with a visit to Kilwins.
The Newsweek honor adds to a growing list of national accolades for Kilwins. Earlier this year, the brand was named the No. 1 Best Dessert/Treat Chain in the United States in USA TODAY’s 2026 10BEST Readers’ Choice Awards.
“Being recognized by consumers on a national stage reinforces what makes Kilwins special,” said Angie Eckelkamp, chief marketing officer of Kilwins. “Ice cream has a way of bringing people together, and for generations, Kilwins has been part of those moments, from vacation traditions and family outings to a simple scoop at the end of the day. We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who voted and continue to make Kilwins part of their traditions.”
Today, Kilwins has nearly 200 locations and continues to expand into new markets nationwide while preserving the hand-crafted products, welcoming hospitality, and nostalgic experience that have defined the brand for generations.
For more information about Kilwins, visit www.kilwins.com.
Kilwins is renowned for its hand-crafted chocolates, creamy fudge, caramel apples, brittle, and super-premium ice cream. The brand has been making people happy since 1947, providing guests with warm, friendly service and a nostalgic confectionery experience. In each store, guests can enjoy watching fudge being paddled on a marble table and caramel cooking in a copper kettle, all in an open kitchen setting. The growing brand has nearly 200 locations nationwide, with new stores continuing to open in markets across the country. Kilwins has earned industry recognition, ranking No. 1 in the candy, ice cream and frozen desserts category in Entrepreneur magazine's Franchise 500® for 10 consecutive years and being named USA TODAY's 2026 No. 1 Best Dessert & Treat Chain. Kilwins is truly "Sweet in every Sense since 1947®." For more information about Kilwins, visit https://www.kilwins.com. To learn more about franchising opportunities, visit https://www.kilwinsfranchise.com.
SOURCE Kilwins
Kilwin's has been a celebrated part of Northern Michigan since 1947, and has earned a reputation for its quality products and excellent service.