PNC Brands Group has strengthened its food manufacturing portfolio with the acquisition of a majority stake in Ice Cream Factory, a Missouri-based producer of handcrafted ice cream. The deal enhances PNC’s vertically integrated manufacturing network while providing Ice Cream Factory with resources to accelerate growth and innovation.

Historic site transformed into modern production hub

Founded in Lebanon, Missouri, Ice Cream Factory operates from a restored 90,000 sq ft dairy facility originally built in the 1940s and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The site serves as the company’s headquarters and primary production plant, supplying handcrafted ice cream to thousands of retail outlets across the US and offering co-manufacturing services for regional and emerging frozen dessert brands.

Under PNC’s ownership, the facility will undergo further modernisation and capacity expansion, including upgrades to processing lines, expanded frozen storage, and the addition of savory production capabilities.

Leadership alignment and growth strategy

As part of the transaction, founder Shannon Imler will move into the role of Chief Growth Officer to lead brand and product expansion efforts. Gail Kurpgeweit, CEO of PNC Brands Group, will also assume the CEO position at Ice Cream Factory to ensure strategic alignment across the company’s food manufacturing portfolio.

The acquisition supports PNC’s goal of expanding its “Menu to Market” commercialisation platform, offering integrated product development, co-packing, and distribution services to restaurant chains and emerging food brands.

Strengthening workforce and industry presence

PNC confirmed that all current Ice Cream Factory employees will be retained, with plans to create 12–15 new roles in production, R&D, and client services.

The deal highlights the ongoing consolidation trend in the US food manufacturing sector, as companies pursue vertically integrated models to improve supply chain efficiency and reduce time-to-market for innovation-led brands.

Kurpgeweit said the acquisition reinforces PNC’s long-term vision:

“Bringing Ice Cream Factory into the PNC Brands family enhances our ability to deliver end-to-end manufacturing solutions while preserving the craftsmanship and creativity that define the Ice Cream Factory brand.”