About Us

Proud to be a local and veteran owned small business

Michael & Erica Terminello grew up in Hawaii but made Virginia their home back in 2005. We have 4 daughters all whom work and take an active role in our family business. Michael retired from the Navy after 24 years of service and Erica managed hotels for most of her career. It's my passion for making people happy and organizing events which lead to taking the leap to buy a Rita's Ice. Erica runs the day to day operations while the rest of the family can be seen working at the stores or out on their Treat Trucks & Trailers. We love being able to employee so many amazing kids and most of our team is 1st time workers learning adult responsibilities in our family run business environment.

Rita's Gives Back

Whether it’s in the individual neighborhoods where we operate or the states we call home, Rita’s passion goes beyond just serving Ice, Custard, and Happiness. Our passion for doing good in the communities in which we live and serve our guests is just as strong. Our footprint in the community is a year-round commitment to helping schools, sports teams, charities, and organizations. It’s just another way we deliver on our brand promise of Happiness.
Our official Charity Partner is Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation

Our Promise

A FRIENDLY FACE: Each shop is individually owned and operated by someone from your community, making it an honor to serve you as our neighbor.
MADE FRESH DAILY: Our famous Italian Ice is made fresh daily at each location. With a rotating selection of over 95 mouthwatering flavors, we’re practically guaranteed to have your favorite!
HAPPINESS: Our business is treats. Our mission is happiness! Let us serve you up a big, fresh, delicious helping of each!

IT STARTED IN THE SUMMER OF 1984…

Bob Tumolo, a former Philadelphia firefighter, opened a small Italian Ice business on his front porch in a suburb of Philly. That first shop, named after his wife, Rita, was created to offer the best-tasting, highest-quality Italian Ice. Today, Rita’s is in over 30 states, serving up Ice, Custard, and Happiness to millions of loyal fans.