Every business has a list of supplies they need to be successful. The same is true for your shaved ice business. While there’s no need to immediately spend on your budget on top-of-the-line supplies and machinery, there are a few staples you should have before you open your doors to the public.

Ice Molds

When looking to stock up on shaved ice supplies, make sure you don’t forget to choose a selection of ice molds. Shaved ice is known for its snow-like texture and almost fluffy quality. Because the ice needs to be shaved to achieve this consistency, shave ice makers need to start with a block of ice that can then be whittled down by the machine’s blades. Opting to use smaller cubed ice can almost get the same result if your machine is high quality enough, but simply investing in good block ice molds can give your product some extra edge without breaking the bank.

Syrup

After the ice itself, syrup and syrup flavor will be what sets your shaved ice business apart from competitors. It’s a good idea to try and build a flavor menu that relies on a few syrups to act as flavor bases, and then incorporating secondary flavors in smaller quantities. For example, cherry is an extremely popular flavor. By purchasing cherry in bulk, and then some secondary syrups like vanilla, cola, and lime can really build out your menu without requiring you to have too many flavors in stock. Mix and match and see what your customers respond to!

Pour Bottles

If you want a fast and easy way to dispense your shaved ice syrup, you’re going to need a set of syrup pour bottles. These bottles make it fast and easy to quickly flavor your shaved ice with just a simple squeeze. Available in a variety of sizes, store smarter by using large bottles for your fastest selling flavors, and smaller bottles for additional flavors and other add-ons. Pour bottles make it easy to prep your station and are a lightweight alternative to full gallon syrup bottles at the counter, marking them as an absolute must on your list of shaved ice supplies.

Cups

Cups are an underrated but highly necessary shaved ice supply. While their primary function is to hold the product, they also serve as a distinctive way to market your business by using cups with your logo or other recognizable images. Flower cups are an industry standard for shaved ice supplies, but you can easily make them your own by printing wrap-around labels that make your shaved ice creations instantly recognizable and can bring in new customers.

Spoon Straws

Spoon or straw? What’s the best way to eat shaved ice? Spoon straws don’t force you to choose. Customers who love scooping fluffy bites of shaved ice get an easy to use tool, while those who love drinking the melted ice syrup at the bottom of their cup can slurp away. Choosing spoon straws as one of your default shaved ice supplies minimizes waste while maximizing usage.

Shaved Ice Machines

Finally, out of all the shaved ice supplies, the most important is a reliable shaved ice machine. Before you purchase a shaved ice machine, consider what makes your location unique, and what machine would best fit those needs. For example, the Hatsuyuki HF-500E Block Ice Shaver is a good fit for brick and mortar stores with access to a freezer that can make block ice, but isn’t a great fit for a mobile stand or cart. Every location is different, so choose a shaved ice machine that will help you meet your shaved ice business goals.

Your One-Stop Shop for Shaved Ice Supplies

Real Hawaiian Ice has everything you need to stock your shaved ice business. Our list of shaved ice supplies includes machinery, syrups, molds, and more! Choose the original shaved ice company as your provider of shaved ice supplies.