In 1927, The Homemade Ice Cream Company was founded and operated by the McCullough family in Green River, Illinois.

The Homemade Ice Cream Company established in Green River, Illinois

The idea for Dairy Queen started in a small dairy town in Illinois in 1937 by John Fremont McCullough and his son Alex.

Dairy Queen Founded in the Midwest

John and Alex McCollough invented soft serve ice cream and tested it at a local shop owned by Sheb Noble on August 4, 1938.

Invention of Soft Serve Ice Cream

In 1939, Harry Oltz advertised his invention of a frozen custard dispenser, leading to an agreement with the McCulloughs that launched the Dairy Queen® industry.

Harry Oltz advertises invention of frozen custard dispenser

On January 1, 1940, the first Dairy Queen store was opened in Joliet, Illinois, marking the beginning of a popular chain of ice cream and fast-food restaurants.

First Dairy Queen store opens in Joliet, Illinois

Sherb Noble opened the first Dairy Queen store in Joliet, Illinois on June 22, 1940. It served a new dessert that became popular quickly, leading to the expansion of the chain.

First Dairy Queen Store Opens in Joliet, Illinois

The first Dairy Queen restaurant was established in Joliet, Illinois on June 22, 1940 by Sherb Noble. This marked the beginning of the iconic fast-food chain's journey.

First Dairy Queen restaurant opens in Joliet, Illinois

The first DQ® restaurant was located in Joliet, Illinois, and was operated by Sherb Noble. It opened for business on June 22, 1940.

First Dairy Queen® Restaurant Opens

By January 1, 1941, Dairy Queen had expanded to 10 stores, showing rapid growth and popularity among customers.

Dairy Queen reaches 10 stores

On April 1, 1941, the McCulloughs opened another store in Moline with the Graces managing it for them.

McCulloughs open store in Moline

By the end of 1942, there were a total of eight Dairy Queen businesses in operation with additional stores opened in Aurora, Illinois, and Davenport, Iowa.

Expansion of Dairy Queen stores

In 1943, Harry Axene introduced franchising territories and started selling Dairy Queen licensing rights for royalties.

Introduction of franchising territories by Harry Axene

In 1943, Harry Axene introduced franchising territories and began selling Dairy Queen® licensing rights for royalties, aiming to establish a national franchising system.

Introduction of franchising territories for Dairy Queen®

In November 1946, Harry Axene organized a meeting with 26 potential investors at the LeClaire Hotel in Moline.

Meeting with potential investors

As of January 1, 1947, Dairy Queen had achieved a significant milestone with over 100 stores across various locations, indicating its widespread success.

Dairy Queen has over 100 stores

In 1948, the first meeting of Dairy Queen National Trade Association (DQNTA) happened in Davenport, Illinois, aiming to standardize products and services for store operators.

Formation of Dairy Queen National Trade Association

The first meeting of the Dairy Queen® National Trade Association took place in 1948 in Davenport, IL, where standardized cones, paper, plastic goods, food products, and advertising were developed.

First meeting of Dairy Queen® National Trade Association

On January 1, 1949, Dairy Queen expanded its menu offerings by introducing malts and shakes, adding more variety to its popular ice cream treats.

Dairy Queen introduces malts and shakes to the menu

In 1950, the number of Dairy Queen stores grew from fourteen hundred to three thousand, offering a wider menu selection.

Growth of Dairy Queen stores

In 1950, Dairy Queen expanded its product line to include malts and milkshakes.

Expansion of products to include malts and milkshakes

On January 1, 1951, Dairy Queen introduced the infamous Banana Split to its menu.

The Infamous Banana Split Added to Menu

On January 1, 1953, the first Dairy Queen in Canada opened its doors in Estevan, Saskatchewan.

First Dairy Queen in Canada

The iconic Dilly Bar debuted in 1954 at the DQ in Moorhead, Minnesota, becoming one of the popular items on the menu.

Debut of the Dilly Bar

By January 1, 1955, Dairy Queen had grown to over 2,600 stores worldwide.

Dairy Queen Expands to Over 2,600 Stores Internationally

In 1955, Dairy Queen introduced the iconic Dilly Bar to its menu.

Introduction of Dilly Bar

On January 1, 1957, Dairy Queen introduced the Dairy Queen (Brazier) concept.

Introduction of Dairy Queen (Brazier) Concept

By January 1, 1958, Dairy Queen had expanded to over 1,446 stores.

Dairy Queen Expands to Over 1,446 Stores

In 1959, the first Dairy Queen restaurant opened in Panama, marking the brand's expansion into new territories.

Expansion to Panama

The Dairy Queen (Brazier) meal items are introduced to the public for the first time.

Debut of Dairy Queen Meal Items

Mr. Misty slushes are enjoyed by many customers for the first time.

Introduction of Mr. Misty Slushes

The establishment of International Dairy Queen, Inc. (IDQ) marks a significant milestone in the company's history.

Formation of International Dairy Queen, Inc. (IDQ)

The first Dairy Queen radio advertisement message is broadcasted to a massive audience, reaching millions of listeners in just one week.

First DQ Radio Advertisement

The initial commercial advertisement for Dairy Queen, titled 'Live a Little', is aired to promote the brand and its products.

First Dairy Queen Commercial Aired

In 1968, the Buster Bar was introduced to the Dairy Queen menu.

The Buster Bar crashes through to the menu

In 1969, the Peanut Buster Parfait was invented by Patsy Franks and became a popular sundae at Dairy Queen.

Invention of the Peanut Buster Parfait

The Blizzard: Hot Fudge Brownie Delight was added to the menu of Dairy Queen stores in 1970.

The Blizzard: Hot Fudge Brownie Delight introduced

Dennis the Menace was featured in Dairy Queen marketing from 1971 until December 2002, when he was replaced because the company felt children could no longer relate to him. Subsequent advertising campaigns featured different characters and themes.

Dennis the Menace in Dairy Queen Marketing

In 1972, the character Dennis the Menace became the spokesperson for Dairy Queen.

Dennis the Menace becomes spokes character for DQ

The first Dairy Queen store in Japan opened its doors in 1972.

First Dairy Queen store opens in Japan

In 1973, customers could get a Peanut Buster Parfait for fifty cents by saying 'Scrumpdillyishus'.

Peanut Buster Parfait promotion

In 1974, Dairy Queen introduced the Hungr-Buster®, a flagship burger that became a popular menu item for the chain.

Introduction of Flagship Burger, Hungr-Buster®

In 1976, John Mooty replaced McKinstry as chairman of Dairy Queen, bringing new leadership to the company.

Change in leadership

In 1976, Dairy Queen successfully trademarked the Country Basket®, solidifying its presence in the fast-food industry.

Trademarking of Country Basket®

In 1976, seventy-five Dairy Queen® stores were operating outside of the United States and Canada, with the system growing to 154 stores by the end of the decade.

Expansion of Dairy Queen® stores internationally

In 1977, Dairy Queen began public trading of its company stock, leading to a significant increase in corporate stock value.

Public trading of company stock

In 1977, public trading of Dairy Queen® company stock began for the first time, leading to a significant increase in corporate stock value and recognition on the Nasdaq.

Initiation of public trading of Dairy Queen® company stock

In 1978, Dairy Queen introduced the Blizzard, a soft serve treat with mix-in toppings that became a national craze.

Introduction of the Blizzard at Dairy Queen

In 1980, the Dairy Queen system made its debut in the Middle East region, expanding its presence to a new market.

DQ system debuts in the Middle East

In 1984, Dairy Queen initiated a partnership with Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, showcasing their commitment to supporting children's healthcare and charitable causes.

Partnership with Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals begins

In 1984, Dairy Queen® franchise operators across the country raised $30,000 for local children's hospitals, showcasing community involvement and support.

Fundraising by Dairy Queen® franchise operators for children's hospitals

The iconic 'We Treat You Right' slogan was introduced by Dairy Queen in 1985, emphasizing their commitment to providing excellent service to customers.

We Treat You Right slogan debut

In 1987, Dairy Queen acquired Orange Julius, expanding its product offerings in their locations.

Dairy Queen Acquires Orange Julius

In 1989, Dairy Queen achieved a significant milestone by selling over 175 million Blizzard Flavor Treats in its first year, showcasing the popularity of this menu item.

More than 175 million Blizzard Flavor Treats sold

In 1990, Dairy Queen launched the Breeze dessert, a Blizzard-like treat made with non-fat, cholesterol-free yogurt.

Launch of the Breeze dessert

In 1990, Dairy Queen began offering frozen yogurt as a lower-calorie alternative to its soft serve ice cream. The product, named Breeze, provided customers with a healthier option until it was phased out in 2001 due to lack of demand.

Introduction of Breeze Frozen Yogurt

In the early 1990s, Dairy Queen Texas advertisements featured a group of animal mascot characters known as the Fun Bunch Munch, including Kangachew the kangaroo, Hungrizzly the bear, and Chompanzee the chimpanzee. These characters were used to promote children's meals.

Fun Bunch Munch Characters in Dairy Queen Texas Advertisements

By 1991, Dairy Queen was recognized as America's top treat chain, solidifying its position as a beloved brand in the dessert industry.

Dairy Queen ranked America's number one treat chain

Dairy Queen introduces Value Meals, featuring a Homestyle Burger and various basket meals, catering to the demand for food within the DQ® system.

Dairy Queen® Value Meals Introduced

Since 1993, the name "Brazier" has been slowly removed from signage and advertising, especially in new or renovated locations which are now called "DQ Restaurant." However, some existing signage in smaller towns and rural areas still carry the "Brazier" name.

Phasing out of the "Brazier" name

In 1994, a dispute arose between Dairy Queen and franchisees over alternative food and paper supply sources, leading to legal action.

Dispute with franchisees

In 1995, Dairy Queen expanded its global presence by opening locations in Mexico, introducing its delicious treats to a new market.

DQ opens in Mexico

In 1996, Dairy Queen became a privately held company and a wholly owned subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway, Inc. This change in ownership has impacted the company's structure and operations.

Dairy Queen becomes a privately held company under Berkshire Hathaway

The trademark license that International Dairy Queen, Inc. had with the company holding the rights to Dennis the Menace expired in December 2002 and was not renewed. This marked the end of their association.

Dennis the Menace trademark license with International Dairy Queen ends

DQ® became a privately held company in 1996 after being acquired by Berkshire Hathaway, Inc.

Dairy Queen® Becomes Part of Berkshire Hathaway

In 1997, Dairy Queen was sold to Berkshire Hathaway Inc., marking a significant milestone in the company's history.

Acquisition by Berkshire Hathaway Inc.

Warren Buffett's company Berkshire Hathaway acquired International Dairy Queen in 1997, recognizing the company's successful franchise model.

Berkshire Hathaway Acquires International Dairy Queen

The year 1998 marked the introduction of Dairy Queen's popular items, the DQ Treatzza Pizza and the Chicken Strip Basket, adding new delicious options to their menu.

Debut of DQ Treatzza Pizza and Chicken Strip Basket

A new menu item called Chocolate Rock Blizzard was added to the Dairy Queen offerings in 1999.

Chocolate Rock Blizzard introduced

In 1999, Pecan Mudslide was launched as a new dessert option at Dairy Queen.

Pecan Mudslide debut

On January 1, 2000, the largest ice cream blizzard ever made weighed 5,316.6 pounds.

World's largest ice cream blizzard

The S'more Galore Parfait was introduced as a new dessert option at Dairy Queen in 2001.

S'more Galore Parfait debut

In 2001, Dairy Queen added Crispy Chicken Salad to its menu as a new salad option.

Crispy Chicken Salad introduced

The first DQ Grill & Chill restaurant was established in Chattanooga, Tennessee in 2001, combining the traditional Dairy Queen treats with a sit-down dining experience.

First DQ Grill & Chill opens in Chattanooga, Tenn.

The trademark license that International Dairy Queen, Inc. had with the company holding the rights to Dennis the Menace ended in December 2002 and has not been renewed.

End of Dennis the Menace Trademark License

On January 1, 2003, the Blizzard of the Month Program was initiated.

Blizzard of the Month Program Launch

The MooLatte Beverage line was introduced on January 1, 2004, featuring Mocha, Vanilla, and Caramel flavors.

MooLatte Beverage Line Introduction

On June 21, 2005, a new record was set for the World's Largest Blizzard Treat in Springfield, Mass. It weighed 8,224.85 pounds and stood 22-feet tall.

World's Largest Blizzard Treat Record Broken

From 2006 to July 2011, Dairy Queen's advertising focused on a large mouth with its tongue licking its lips, which later evolved into featuring a dapper man performing outrageous feats for Dairy Queen. The advertising campaigns underwent various changes over the years.

Transition in Dairy Queen Advertising

In early 2007, Dairy Queen modernized its signage and logos by modifying the font, italicizing the letters, and adding arced lines representing hot foods and ice cream products. The registered mark symbol was moved to be adjacent to the letter 'Q'.

DQ Logo Modernization

On July 26, 2010, Dairy Queen introduced a new 'mini' size Blizzard, served in 6 oz. cups. This smaller size option provided customers with a more manageable portion of the popular treat.

Introduction of Mini Blizzard

In 2011, Dairy Queen earned the title for the biggest ice cream cake, showcasing innovation and creativity in dessert offerings.

Creation of the biggest ice cream cake

In 2011, Dairy Queen filed a request for a preliminary injunction against Yogubliz Inc., a frozen yogurt chain, to stop them from selling 'Blizzberry' and 'Blizz Frozen Yogurt' due to potential confusion with Dairy Queen's Blizzard. The request was denied by the U.S. District Judge.

Legal Dispute with Yogubliz Inc.

By the end of 2014, Dairy Queen had over 6,400 stores in 27 countries, with more than 1,400 located outside the United States and Canada.

Expansion of Dairy Queen stores worldwide

In 2015, Dairy Queen released the Salted Caramel Truffle Blizzard to commemorate the Blizzard's 30th anniversary and Dairy Queen's 75th anniversary. However, this flavor has since been removed from the menu.

Release of Salted Caramel Truffle Blizzard

In 2015, Dairy Queen collaborated with Wm. K. Walthers to release HO scale models of a restaurant from the 1950s and 2007, featuring the original and current logos respectively. These officially licensed replicas are a collector's item for model railroad enthusiasts.

Release of Walthers Cornerstone HO 1:87 Scale models by Dairy Queen and Wm. K. Walthers

The Dairy Queen system marks 75 years of serving fans and franchisees, highlighting a long-standing tradition of fun and enjoyment.

DQ® System Celebrates 75 Years

In May 2016, Dairy Queen announced that suppliers in the United States and Canada would be required to purchase eggs only from approved cage-free egg suppliers by 2025. The company has made progress in converting shell eggs, liquid eggs, and proprietary ingredients to cage-free or reformulating products to remove eggs.

Dairy Queen's Commitment to Cage-Free Eggs

On October 30, 2017, Vasari LLC filed for bankruptcy, leading to the closure of 29 Dairy Queen stores, including 10 in the Texas Panhandle.

Bankruptcy filing by Vasari LLC

On October 30, 2017, Vasari LLC, a major Dairy Queen operator, filed for bankruptcy and announced the closure of 29 DQ stores, including ten in the Texas Panhandle. This event had implications for the company's operations.

Bankruptcy Filing by Vasari LLC and Closure of DQ Stores

Dairy Queen launches its mobile app, providing fans with a convenient way to order their favorite items and earn rewards for their loyalty.

DQ® Mobile App Launches

In 2019, the first Dairy Queen restaurant with the Next Gen design opened, showcasing the brand's commitment to innovation and modernization.

Introduction of Next Gen design

The first DQ Grill & Chill® restaurant featuring the Next Gen design is inaugurated, showcasing a new era of innovation and customer experience.

First DQ Grill & Chill® with Next Gen Design Opens

Dairy Queen introduces the Non-Dairy Dilly® Bar, a gluten-free, dairy-free, and plant-based frozen dessert option, catering to diverse dietary preferences.

Non-Dairy Dilly® Bar Debut

In 2021, Dairy Queen introduced Cheesy Steak Fingers, a menu item that exceeded all expectations and became a fan favorite.

Cheesy Steak Fingers Launch

Blizzard® Treat was introduced to the menu in 2022.

Introduction of Blizzard® Treat

Hungr-Buster® was added to the menu in 2022.

Introduction of Hungr-Buster®

Texas T-Brand Tacos® were included in the menu offerings in 2022.

Introduction of Texas T-Brand Tacos®

Chicken Strips were added to the menu in 2022.

Introduction of Chicken Strips

In 2022, Dairy Queen formed a partnership with Josh Abbott, a significant collaboration that brought new opportunities for both parties.

Partnership with Josh Abbott

DQ Grill & Chill® introduces Signature Stackburgers™, offering customers a new and delicious burger option to enjoy at Dairy Queen.

DQ Grill & Chill® Launches Signature Stackburgers™

International Dairy Queen, Inc. (DQ) is a multinational fast food chain headquartered in Bloomington, Minnesota. The first Dairy Queen opened in 1940 in Joliet, Illinois, offering hot and fried food along with frozen dairy products.

Dairy Queen

Related

No keynote events are found.

Popular

Recently Added

Information

Dairy Queen

Event