Philly Pretzel Factory has formally acquired Cone Guys, the Bristol, Pennsylvania-based manufacturer of the original pretzel cone, in a move that broadens its snacking portfolio into the dessert category. The deal was finalized on August 8, 2025, marking a strategic expansion for the pretzel franchise.
Cone Guys, founded in 1994, built its reputation on pretzel cones distributed via supermarkets, ice cream retailers, and major third-party channels including Amazon, Walmart, and Webstaurant. Its product assortment now includes gourmet cones in chocolate, chocolate-chip, and sprinkle-coated variants. Pretzel cones make up the majority of Cone Guys’ business today.
Philly Pretzel Factory, with over 170 locations nationwide, says the acquisition will allow it to strengthen its manufacturing capabilities and accelerate growth in frozen desserts, retail distribution, and co-branded ice cream partnerships. The company emphasized that Cone Guys will keep producing from its Bristol facility, with innovation and expanded branding in the pipeline.
Dan DiZio, CEO of Philly Pretzel Factory said, the addition aligns with its “natural extension of our brand,” especially as it explores new channels and dessert opportunities. Marty Ferrill, the company’s President, recounted first experiencing the synergy decades ago, recalling a pretzel cone with vanilla ice cream at Reading Terminal Market in Philadelphia and recognizing its long-standing consumer appeal.
Philly Pretzel Factory’s purchase of Cone Guys is more than a brand expansion, it’s a bet on product innovation and distribution savvy. In an era where consumers crave novelty and brands chase cross-category growth, the pretzel cone may be a small product, but it represents a meaningful move in snack diversification, retail partnerships, and brand growth.
