International Dairy Queen, Inc.

International Dairy Queen, Inc. (IDQ) is a prominent American multinational fast-food chain renowned for its signature soft-serve ice cream and a diverse menu of hot and cold food items. Established in 1940, the company has grown into a global brand with a significant presence in the quick-service restaurant industry.

The inaugural Dairy Queen store opened on June 22, 1940, in Joliet, Illinois, founded by Sherb Noble, John Fremont McCullough, and his son Alex McCullough. The trio developed a unique soft-serve formula that quickly gained popularity, leading to rapid expansion. By 1955, Dairy Queen had established 2,600 locations, and by 1962, it had become International Dairy Queen, Inc., reflecting its expanding global footprint.

Product Offerings

IDQ's menu includes a range of classic items such as the Blizzard, a thick, creamy treat made with various mix-ins; the Peanut Buster Parfait, featuring layers of peanuts, hot fudge, and vanilla soft serve; and the Dilly Bar, a chocolate-covered ice cream treat on a stick. Alongside frozen desserts, Dairy Queen serves:

• Burgers
• Chicken strips
• Hot dogs
• Salads

These cater to both sweet and savory cravings.

Locations and Expansion

As of 2025, Dairy Queen operates over 4,100 stores in the United States and more than 7,700 locations worldwide, including a strong presence in China with over 1,600 outlets. The company is actively exploring expansion opportunities, particularly in the Middle East, with plans to enter markets like Saudi Arabia.

Headquarters

In 2019, IDQ relocated its headquarters to a 53,000-square-foot office space in Bloomington, Minnesota. The new facility features collaborative workspaces, a test kitchen, and a product lab designed to foster innovation and support growth.

Locations

• Chicago, IL, USA

Dairy Queen's commitment to quality and customer satisfaction has solidified its position as a beloved brand in the fast-food industry, offering a unique blend of classic and contemporary menu items that continue to delight customers worldwide.