#United States #PNC Brands Group #Ice Cream Factory #Shannon Imler #Lebanon, Missouri

PNC Brands Group Expands with Ice Cream Factory Acquisition

In a strategic move meant to bolster its portfolio, PNC Brands Group, the parent entity behind Pivot North Consulting Group and PNC Specialty Foods, has successfully acquired a majority interest in Ice Cream Factory, a cherished family-owned business based in Lebanon, Missouri. The acquisition underscores PNC’s commitment to growth while preserving the unique qualities that have garnered Ice Cream Factory a loyal client base across the Midwest.

A Legacy of Flavor and Community

Founded in 2019 by Shannon and Katie Imler, Ice Cream Factory has made a name for itself with its premium, handcrafted flavors and dedication to small-batch production. The company operates out of a historic dairy plant in Lebanon, a building steeped in history since it was established in the 1940s and now recognized on the National Register of Historic Places. With PNC at the helm, Ice Cream Factory is set to undergo an extensive modernization and expansion effort to enhance its production capacity and operational efficiency.

CEO Gail Kurpgeweit will also don the hat of CEO for Ice Cream Factory, steering the brand into a new era of development while founder Shannon Imler will retain his role as Chief Growth Officer. This leadership transition is designed to blend PNC's extensive knowledge in food brand management with the rich traditions of the Ice Cream Factory, ensuring that the unique flavor profiles and community-focused ethos remain intact.

Plans for Expansion and Modernization

Under PNC Brands Group's guidance, Ice Cream Factory will initiate various operational upgrades. These include installing advanced processing lines, expanding its frozen storage facilities, and introducing a new savory production line. These improvements are pivotal for increasing production capabilities, enabling Ice Cream Factory to serve as a co-manufacturing partner for emerging brands in need of scalable production support.

The acquisition also augments the service offerings for PNC's existing clients. With the expanded capacity at Ice Cream Factory, PNC is now positioned to deliver comprehensive commercialization services. This means clients can benefit from end-to-end solutions that range from recipe development and formulation to co-manufacturing, packaging, brokerage, and retail distribution—all within a cohesive, vertically integrated platform. This strategic alignment will help reduce lead times and improve quality control, allowing restaurant and food brands to follow PNC's Menu to Market® system effectively.

Moreover, Ice Cream Factory's co-packing clients are set to reap the benefits from PNC's extensive infrastructure, which includes access to research and development expertise, brand development resources, and national brokerage and distribution channels. Together, the resources established through this partnership create a robust platform for food brands keen on scaling their operations.

Commitment to Community and Employment

As part of this acquisition, all current employees will be retained, and the company plans to create an additional 12 to 15 jobs across production, research and development, and client support sectors. Furthermore, the expansion is projected to invigorate local economic activity by engaging a network of suppliers, packaging vendors, and logistics partners.

Gail Kurpgeweit stated, “Our goal is to preserve everything that makes Ice Cream Factory special while expanding its ability to grow. Together, we’re building a stronger foundation for future growth that benefits the community, our clients, and consumers.” Shannon Imler expressed his enthusiasm for the future, saying, “Partnering with PNC Brands Group allows us to strengthen operations, expand opportunities, and support other food entrepreneurs while staying true to our roots here in Missouri.”

With this acquisition, PNC Brands Group is not just expanding its influence within the food industry but is also reaffirming its commitment to supporting local brands and nurturing community ties. This merger signifies a promising new chapter for Ice Cream Factory as it looks forward to further enhancing its production capabilities and community engagement in the years ahead.