Friendly Ice Cream Corporation

Friendly Ice Cream Corporation is a producer of frozen dessert products, specializing in ice cream and cake offerings that appeal to families and children, capturing nostalgia and fun through a wide variety of treats. Friendly Ice Cream Corporation, founded in 1935 in Wilbraham, US, focuses on the manufacturing of frozen desserts. The company underwent a significant change in ownership when, in May 2016, Dean Foods Company acquired its manufacturing and retail ice cream business for USD 155 mn. David Lezaun, the current CEO, has been integral to the company’s operations.

Friendly's® specializes in a diverse range of frozen dessert products, with core offerings centered around ice cream and ice cream cakes. Their product line includes popular items such as ice cream bars, cones, and cups, alongside limited-time offerings like the Wattamelon™ Cake and themed ice cream bars. These products cater to families and individuals seeking enjoyable frozen treats for various occasions. Friendly's® ice cream is primarily sold through grocery stores and retailers across the US, targeting markets that appreciate nostalgic dessert options and serving a broad customer base, including families and ice cream enthusiasts.

In 2006, Friendly's® reported a revenue of USD 531. 46 mn and an EBITDA of USD 44. 47 mn, generated through direct sales of ice cream products to retailers and wholesalers, supplemented by promotional campaigns to encourage consumer engagement. Following the acquisition by Dean Foods Company, Friendly Ice Cream Corporation plans to utilize the recent funding to expand its product offerings and market reach.

This includes the development of new ice cream flavors and products aimed for launch in the coming years, alongside strategies to enter additional grocery markets. The focus will be on enhancing product visibility and fostering relationships with retail partners, ensuring a robust presence in the frozen dessert sector.