If there’s one thing that tastes sweeter than your favourite ice cream flavour, it’s knowing that your scoop is helping local businesses thrive. When you support local ice cream shops, you’re doing more than just treating yourself to a dessert—you’re contributing to the community’s economy, creativity, and even sustainability. Let’s dive into why supporting your local ice cream shop matters and how it’s a win-win for everyone.
1. Supporting Small Businesses Boosts the Local Economy
When you spend your dollars at a local ice cream shop, those dollars stay within the community. Small business owners are more likely to spend money locally, whether that’s paying employees, buying ingredients from nearby suppliers, or reinvesting in their own stores.
- Local jobs: Independent ice cream shops often hire people from the neighbourhood, creating more local employment opportunities.
- Revenue circulation: A study by the Institute for Local Self-Reliance found that local businesses circulate up to 58% more revenue in the local economy than big chains.
Want to discover the best local ice cream shops? Check out our Ice Cream Trails for a delicious journey through your city’s hidden gems!
2. Unique Flavours You Won’t Find Anywhere Else
Big chains tend to stick to the classics—vanilla, chocolate, and maybe a seasonal flavour thrown in. But when you visit a local shop, you’re in for a treat because many of them feature creative, locally inspired flavours. Think of Toronto’s Scooped by Demetres with their innovative Cajeta Swirled Goat Cheese or Vancouver’s Perverted Ice Cream with the quirky Menthol Breakdown.
Local ice cream makers aren’t afraid to experiment with flavour profiles, and that creativity is fueled by the passion of the business owners. They’re constantly testing new ingredients and combinations, offering an ever-evolving menu that you simply won’t find anywhere else.
Scooped by Demetres' Cajeta Swirled Goat Cheese
3. Community Connection
Local ice cream shops often become more than just a place to grab dessert—they turn into community hubs. From hosting local events, sponsoring youth sports teams, or simply providing a cozy space for neighbours to meet, these businesses add to the social fabric of the area.
Take Good Behaviour in Toronto, for example, which started as a pandemic project by two chefs looking to bring some joy to their community. Now, it’s a beloved local hangout where people gather for a scoop of comfort food.
4. Environmental Impact
It’s not just about what’s on the cone—many local shops are also committed to sustainability. Supporting local businesses often means you’re also supporting eco-friendly practices. Many of these shops source their ingredients locally, which reduces the carbon footprint associated with transporting goods long distances.
Some local ice cream shops, like Sim and Lil, are known for using organic dairy and creating all their add-ins in-house, eliminating the need for artificial preservatives or harmful ingredients. It’s a win for your tastebuds and the planet.
5. Personal Touch and Better Customer Service
Unlike big chain stores where you’re often just another customer in line, local ice cream shops are all about personal connections. The owners and staff tend to know their regulars by name, and they’re always excited to chat about the new flavours they’re working on.
Whether it’s a handwritten thank you note on your order or a personalized recommendation based on your favourite flavours, these small touches make the experience that much sweeter.
Welcome Parlour Ice Cream in Vancouver
Conclusion: A Taste of Local Life
Supporting local ice cream shops isn’t just a feel-good moment—it’s an investment in your community’s future. From unique flavours to building community connections, these small businesses bring so much to the table (or cone). So the next time you’re craving something sweet, think local and enjoy a scoop that’s not just delicious but also packed with heart.
Ready to explore the best local ice cream shops? Our guidebooks are packed with recommendations and exciting shops! Grab yours today.