Eric and Ali Rasmussen, the founders of Spacious Skies Campgrounds, announced a new venture: Rainbow Snow, a franchise selling colorful shaved-ice treats from trailers with a bold rainbow theme.
According to a press release, the franchise opportunities span across 35 states, providing franchise owners with compact, easy-to-tow food carts fully equipped to serve rainbow-themed shaved-ice treats at various events such as farmers markets, festivals, block parties, corporate events, and other community gatherings.
Franchisees will operate from spherical, rainbow-themed trailers, with a turnkey operation that includes initial training and support. The total investment ranges from $99,000 to $123,000, and franchise owners will be provided a “protected territory” along with a flexible business model.
The trailers, known as Arco Iris (derived from the Spanish word for rainbow), are easy to tow and contain everything needed to sell shaved ice at various community events. The initial franchise fee is $25,000, and turnaround time for a franchisee to begin operations is typically 60 to 90 days. The Rasmussens designed the business to offer high margins and low operational impacts.
Eric’s inspiration for Rainbow Snow traces back to his childhood in Sioux City, Iowa. A rainbow-themed shaved-ice stand in his hometown left a lasting impression, and when the original business became available in 2023, the Rasmussens saw an opportunity. They purchased the business and began developing the franchise concept.
The Rasmussens, along with their three children, traveled across the country towing one of the original trailers back to their home in New Jersey. According to the press release, this trailer served as the prototype for the modern Arco units that will be used by franchisees. Despite launching the franchise operation, the Rasmussens still manage the original Sioux City stand.
Both Eric and Ali Rasmussen have experience in real estate, branding, and design. Their first venture, Spacious Skies Campgrounds, has grown to include 15 RV and glamping campgrounds across the Eastern U.S. Spacious Skies emphasizes inclusivity and fun, partnering with organizations such as Black Folks Camp Too to promote a welcoming atmosphere for all guests.
Eric Rasmussen believes that Rainbow Snow taps into a broader desire for “simple, nostalgic experiences.” “Growing up, summers in my neighborhood were defined by simple childhood freedoms,” Rasmussen recalled. “When the business became available last year, it seemed like just the right opportunity to revisit those simple times.”
