Five Below's Ice Cream-Themed Treats

Affordable Frozen Treats for Summer

Five Below, the popular discount store chain, has ventured into the world of frozen treats. The company now offers ice cream and dessert products, expanding its selection beyond the typical $5-and-under merchandise. Customers can find a variety of ice cream-related items at Five Below stores, including ice cream-themed party supplies and even ice cream delivery options through partnerships with services like Instacart.

This move into the frozen dessert market has not been without controversy. Five Below became embroiled in a legal dispute with 10 Below Ice Cream, a rolled ice cream shop, over naming rights. The discount retailer claimed the similarity in names could confuse customers.

Despite these challenges, Five Below continues to embrace the ice cream trend. From ice cream cone piñatas for parties to actual frozen treats, the store aims to provide budget-friendly options for ice cream enthusiasts. This expansion into frozen desserts represents Five Below's ongoing efforts to diversify its product offerings while maintaining its signature low-price approach.

Overview of Five Below

Five Below is a rapidly growing discount retail chain known for selling trendy products at affordable prices. The company has expanded significantly since its founding, carving out a unique niche in the retail market with its focus on value-priced items appealing to teens and young adults.

History and Expansion

Five Below was founded in 2002 by David Schlessinger and Tom Vellios in Wayne, Pennsylvania. The first store opened in October of that year in Rittenhouse Square, Philadelphia. The company quickly gained traction, expanding to multiple locations across the United States. By 2024, Five Below had grown to over 1,000 stores nationwide.

The retailer's rapid growth can be attributed to its unique business model and strategic expansion plans. Five Below has consistently added new stores each year, targeting high-traffic suburban areas and shopping centers. The company has also expanded its presence in major cities, including New York, where it opened several locations to capture urban shoppers.

The Five Below Brand

Five Below's brand identity revolves around offering a wide range of products priced at $5 or less. The company targets a young demographic, primarily teens and pre-teens, with a selection of trendy and fun merchandise. Products range from toys and games to beauty items, tech accessories, and room decor.

The retailer has successfully positioned itself as a destination for affordable, trend-driven items. Five Below's product assortment changes frequently, creating a "treasure hunt" shopping experience that encourages repeat visits. The company also embraces seasonal merchandise, offering holiday-themed items and back-to-school supplies.

Store Experience

Five Below stores are designed to create an engaging and vibrant shopping environment. The typical store size ranges from 8,000 to 10,000 square feet, providing ample space for product displays and easy navigation. Stores are brightly lit and feature colorful signage and eye-catching displays.

The layout is organized into distinct sections, such as "Style," "Room," and "Now," making it easy for customers to find specific product categories. Interactive elements, like try-me stations for tech gadgets, enhance the shopping experience. Five Below's stores also incorporate music and bold graphics to appeal to their young target audience.

Self-checkout kiosks are available in many locations, streamlining the purchase process. The company's commitment to value is evident throughout the store, with clear price signage and promotional displays highlighting special deals and new arrivals.

Ice Cream Offerings at Five Below

Five Below offers a variety of ice cream-themed products and treats at affordable prices. The store caters to ice cream lovers with both edible options and fun accessories.

Types of Ice Cream

Five Below's ice cream selection includes candy-based ice cream treats. These unique confections combine the flavors of ice cream with the texture of candy. Shaped like miniature ice cream cones or popsicles, these sweets provide a fun twist on traditional frozen desserts.

The store also features ice cream-inspired accessories. A popular item is the 16oz ice cream drink tumbler, perfect for enjoying cold beverages. This pink tumbler allows customers to carry their favorite drinks in ice cream-themed style.

For party enthusiasts, Five Below offers an ice cream cone piñata. This 20-inch metallic foil piñata can be filled with candy or small toys, adding a playful ice cream element to celebrations.

Ice Cream Pricing

Five Below maintains its signature pricing structure for ice cream-related items. The 16oz ice cream drink tumbler is priced at $5.00, staying true to the store's name and concept.

Other ice cream-themed products follow a similar pricing model. The ice cream cone piñata, measuring 20 inches in length, 12 inches in width, and 3.5 inches in depth, is also competitively priced.

Candy ice cream treats are sold at budget-friendly rates, making them accessible to customers looking for affordable sweets. Five Below's pricing strategy ensures that ice cream enthusiasts can indulge in treats and accessories without breaking the bank.

Shopping at Five Below

Five Below offers budget-friendly shopping experiences for ice cream lovers and bargain hunters alike. The retailer provides both in-store and online options for customers to browse and purchase a variety of affordable items.

In-Store Shopping Experience

Five Below stores are vibrant and energetic, with bright colors and upbeat music creating a fun atmosphere. Ice cream-themed items can be found scattered throughout the store, often in the food and party sections. Customers can easily locate ice cream-related products like novelty ice cream makers, ice cream-shaped pillows, and ice cream-scented stickers. The stores are organized into distinct sections, making it simple to navigate and find specific items. Friendly staff members are available to assist shoppers with any questions or help locate products.

Online Shopping Options

Five Below's website offers a convenient alternative for those who prefer to shop from home. Customers can browse the full range of ice cream-related items available, including seasonal offerings. The online platform features a user-friendly interface with clear product descriptions and images. Shoppers can easily add items to their cart and complete their order with various payment options. Five Below offers home delivery for online purchases, making it simple to have ice cream-themed products shipped directly to the customer's doorstep. The website also provides the option to check in-store availability for specific items.

Additional Offerings and Services

Five Below expands beyond ice cream with a diverse product range and pet-focused items. These offerings cater to various customer interests and needs.

Assorted Product Range

Five Below's inventory includes more than just frozen treats. The store stocks a wide array of affordable items across multiple categories. Customers can find trendy accessories, tech gadgets, and home decor products.

Party supplies and seasonal decorations are also available, perfect for celebrations and holidays. The store offers affordable beauty and personal care items, appealing to budget-conscious shoppers.

Five Below's selection of toys and games provides entertainment options for various age groups. Craft supplies and art materials encourage creativity among customers. The store's ever-changing inventory keeps the shopping experience fresh and exciting.

Pet Products

Five Below recognizes the importance of pets in many customers' lives. The store offers a selection of affordable pet accessories and toys. Dog owners can find leashes, collars, and chew toys for their furry friends.

Cat enthusiasts have access to scratching posts, toys, and grooming items. The pet section also includes treats and food bowls for various animals. Five Below's pet products provide budget-friendly options for pet care essentials.

Seasonal pet items, such as holiday-themed toys and costumes, are often available. The store's pet offerings allow animal lovers to spoil their pets without breaking the bank.

Legality and Trademark Issues

Five Below's trademark disputes have raised questions about brand protection in the retail and food industries. Legal battles have centered on the use of similar names and potential consumer confusion.

Recent Lawsuits and Disputes

Five Below, the discount retail chain, filed a federal trademark lawsuit against 10Below Ice Cream in 2017. The suit alleged that the New York-based ice cream company's name could confuse consumers due to its similarity. Five Below claimed the ice cream chain's Philadelphia location near Rittenhouse Square infringed on its trademark.

The dispute highlighted the challenges of protecting brand identity across different industries. Five Below argued that despite operating in different sectors, the comparable names could lead to brand dilution and customer mix-ups.

Trademark Protection

Trademark law aims to prevent consumer confusion and protect brand identities. In the food and beverage industry, taste and flavor trademarks face unique challenges. Courts often disqualify such claims based on the functionality doctrine.

For retail chains like Five Below, trademark protection extends beyond their primary market. The company's legal action against 10Below Ice Cream demonstrates efforts to safeguard brand recognition across diverse product categories.

Philly-based Five Below's trademark strategy includes defending its name against similar-sounding businesses, even in unrelated fields. This approach reflects the importance of maintaining a distinct brand identity in competitive markets.