Baskin-Robbins, founded in 1945, is the world's largest ice cream specialty store chain with over 8,000 locations. Known for its '31 flavors' slogan, offering a variety of flavors including vegan options.
Baskin-Robbins was founded in 1945 by Burt Baskin and Irv Robbins in Glendale, California. It is known for its '31 flavors' slogan and has grown to become the world's largest chain of ice cream specialty stores.
1946
Merger of Burt Baskin and Irv Robbins' Businesses
Burt Baskin and Irv Robbins merged their ice cream businesses in 1946.
1947
Creation of Original Baskin Robbins Logo
The original badge of the Baskin Robbins brand was created in 1947 by the American marketing agency Carson-Roberts. It featured the hidden number '31' in the stylized abbreviation of the company's name, symbolizing the rich flavors assortment.
1948-05-20
First Baskin-Robbins Franchise Executed
The first Baskin-Robbins franchise was executed on May 20, 1948, for the store located at 1130 South Adams in Glendale.
1949
Baskin-Robbins Production Facility Opens in Burbank
In 1949, Baskin-Robbins opened its production facility in Burbank, enabling the company to increase its ice cream production and meet the growing demand from its expanding store network.
1953-03
Introduction of Baskin-Robbins 31 Flavors Concept
In March 1953, Baskin-Robbins introduced the concept of offering 31 flavors, along with the iconic pink and brown polka dots and circus-themed typeface. This marketing strategy aimed to differentiate the brand and attract customers with a wide variety of ice cream choices.
1959
First Baskin-Robbins Shop Outside California
In 1959, an Arizona shop became the first Baskin-Robbins location outside of California, marking the beginning of the brand's expansion beyond its original state.
1962-11-26
Name Change to Baskin-Robbins, Inc.
On November 26, 1962, the corporate firm known as Huntington Ice Cream Company changed its name back to Baskin-Robbins, Inc. This rebranding reflected the company's commitment to its iconic brand identity.
1964-07-15
Introduction of 'Surfer's Gremmie Nut' Flavor
'Surfer's Gremmie Nut' flavor was specifically created for the movie 'For Those Who Think Young' and was available at 18 Valley 31-Flavor Baskin-Robbins shops starting from July 15, 1964.
1967-05-03
Serving Baskin-Robbins 31 Flavors at Conejo Village Shopping Center
On May 3, 1967, Wayne Holmberg served one of Baskin-Robbins' 31 flavors to Olaf Pahn at Conejo Village Shopping Center, showcasing the variety and popularity of the ice cream brand.
1969
Introduction of Lunar Cheesecake Flavor
In 1969, Baskin-Robbins introduced the Lunar Cheesecake flavor as part of their commemorative flavors. The company has a history of creating special flavors for different occasions.
1972
Baskin-Robbins Goes Public
In 1972, Baskin-Robbins went public when United Brands sold 17% of the company in an IPO. This move allowed the ice cream chain to raise capital from public investors and expand its operations.
1973
Introduction of New Flavors
In 1973, Baskin-Robbins introduced several flavors for the U.S. bicentennial celebration, including Yankee Doodle Strudel, Valley Forge Fudge, Concorde Grape, and Minuteman Mint.
1974
Rapid Expansion of Baskin-Robbins
By the latter half of the 1960s, Baskin-Robbins had over 600 shops across the United States, with a new shop opening every other day. The company expanded through Europe and Japan by its 31st anniversary.
1988-07
Baskin-Robbins Shop Opening in Moscow
In the summer of 1988, a Baskin-Robbins shop opened at a Moscow hotel, marking the end of the Cold War. Ice cream was imported from London and sold for hard currency, leading to plans for a plant in the Soviet Union by 1990.
1991-01
Baskin-Robbins Logo Redesign
In 1991, Baskin-Robbins redesigned their logo, integrating the iconic number '31' with the wordmark 'Baskin' and 'Robbins'. The color palette was simplified to pink and blue, reflecting a harmonious and modern design.
2006
Transformation of Baskin Robbins Logo
In 2006, Baskin Robbins underwent a logo transformation to adapt to the new millennium. The iconic '31' was creatively integrated between the words 'Baskin' and 'Robbins', replacing the solid circle with a half ring. This redesign garnered significant attention and refreshed the brand image.
2008
Death of Irvine Robbins
Irvine Robbins, co-founder of Baskin-Robbins, passed away in 2008 at the age of 90. He was known for being an ice cream enthusiast and his favorite flavor was Jamoca Almond Fudge.
2010-10
Dunkin' Brands terminated license agreement with Allied Brands Group for Baskin-Robbins in Australia
In October 2010, Dunkin' Brands ended its licensing agreement with Allied Brands Group for Baskin-Robbins in Australia and started supporting Australian franchisees directly.
2014-03
First Co-Branded Baskin-Robbins and Dunkin' Donuts Location
In March 2014, California's first co-branded Baskin-Robbins and Dunkin' Donuts location opened in San Diego.
2017-07
Baskin-Robbins DoorDash Partnership
In July 2017, Baskin-Robbins partnered with DoorDash to deliver ice cream in 22 cities across the United States.
2018-01-17
Baskin-Robbins History
A short history of Baskin-Robbins is discussed in the article by Liz Ohanesian.
2019
Addition of vegan and non-dairy flavors
In 2019, Baskin-Robbins expanded its menu by introducing vegan and non-dairy flavors to cater to a wider range of dietary preferences. This move reflected the company's commitment to innovation and inclusivity.
2020
Variety of Flavors
Baskin-Robbins offers over 1400 flavors, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences.
2022-04-11
Baskin-Robbins Logo and Tagline Update
On April 11, 2022, Baskin-Robbins debuted an updated logo and introduced the new tagline 'Seize the Yay'.
2023-10-31
Brief history of Baskin Robbins
The piece provides insights into the rich history of Baskin Robbins, emphasizing its enduring popularity and reputation for offering a wide range of delicious ice cream flavors.