Ice Cream Factory, the family-owned ice cream manufacturer founded in 2019, has announced a $9 million venture to renovate an existing factory in Lebanon, Mo, which will be complete with an Ice Cream Factory retail section. Previously, the factory existed only as a supplier to over 1,000 retailers, though this new venture will see the business opening its first "tourist attraction" and retail location that allows customers to view the factory and buy products first-hand.
The factory was previously used as a Mid-Am dairy building and is 86,000 square feet in size. The majority of the building must be renovated, so Ice Cream Factory has stated that the new location will be open for business in the summer of 2023.
Ice Cream-Manufacturer Expansions
Ice Cream Factory Has Announced a New Factory and Retail Venture
Trend Themes
1. Craft Ice Cream - The trend of small-batch, artisanal ice cream is becoming increasingly popular, with opportunities for new, unique flavor combinations and local sourcing of ingredients.
2. Factory Tours - As more consumers seek out unique experiences, offering factory tours can provide an engaging and educational opportunity for customers as well as an additional revenue stream for manufacturers.
3. Retail Branding - Creating a retail section within a manufacturing facility offers new opportunities for branding and customer engagement through packaging, merchandising, and marketing.
Industry Implications
1. Artisanal Food - The artisanal food industry is ripe for expansion, with opportunities for small-batch ice cream manufacturers to differentiate themselves through innovative flavors and locally-sourced ingredients.
2. Tourism - One potential industry for factory tours is tourism, as consumers seek out unique travel experiences and attractions.
3. Retail - Adding a retail section to a manufacturing facility offers opportunities for new revenue streams and customer engagement through branding and marketing efforts.