Seth Johnson
Gainesville will have a new cool down spot next week once Orlando-based Jeremiah’s Italian Ice launches its first store in Alachua County.
Set to open on Tuesday, Oct. 26, in Butler Plaza, Jeremiahs’ Italian Ice will have outdoor patio seating and walk-up service windows along with third party delivery and carryout options.
Jeremiah’s serves over 40 flavors of Italian ice, soft ice cream and a Gelati that combines both.
“My husband and I are extremely proud in bringing Jeremiah’s Italian Ice to Gainesville,” Jen Phan, co-owner of the new store, said in a press release. “We hope the local UF student body loves Jeremiah’s Gelatis as much as we do, and we are ready to work hard to turn our location into a new local favorite.”
The husband and wife team plans to add a second Gainesville location in the future.
They first encountered Jeremiah’s Italian Ice through a business transaction that turned into a personal relationship with the store. Before long, the couple believed enough in the model and people to start a franchise in Gainesville, their hometown.
“We believe in this brand from top to bottom,” Chu Tsai, the other co-owner, said. “We believe our new business will make a wonderful addition to Gainesville and we can’t wait to get started.”
The owners plan to host “Ice Nights” with schools, churches and other organizations in the area, and hope the business can make a positive impact in the community.
Jeremiah’s Italian Ice began serving sweet treats in 1996 and franchising opportunities opening in 2019. The company now dots the southern United States with 50 locations in Florida, Arizona, Georgia, North Carolina, Louisiana and Texas.