MADISON — Just in time for a cool down during the hottest part of our Alabama summer, franchise owners Todd and Alexis Bentley are bringing three locations of Jeremiah’s Italian Ice to North Alabama. The first location opens in Madison’s newly renovated Hughes Plaza in August.
“We selected our Madison site because it was right on the main strip, has excellent co-tenants, is a great hang-out for families, near schools, Palmer Park, apartments, and downtown,” Todd Bentley said. “Hughes Plaza has become a frequented spot for the community.
“We want to be a part of a thriving center.”
Jeremiah’s Italian Ice boasts 40 icy cold flavors including endless combinations of refreshing Italian ice, layered with rich and creamy soft ice cream. The result is a treat called Jeremiah’s Gelati and the combination of possibilities is seemingly endless.
The store, tucked between Just Love Coffee and Absolute Nutrition, will offer traditional classic chocolate or cherry selections alongside highly decadent selections such as horchata and sea-salted caramel. For the more eclectic taste buds, there are seasonal flavors such as mango margarita and spicy hot chocolate. Jeremiah’s also offers sugar-free options.
“Jeremiah’s began near Orlando (in Winter Park) where I grew up,” said Alexis Bentley. “Since I was a child, I looked forward to visiting the shop with my family and getting my favorite gelati and soft ice cream.
“When I heard the concept’s creator was making franchise options available, I jumped on it. I quickly got Todd on board, and now he’s as much of a fan as I am.
“We are excited to share what we think are the best frozen treats with Madison and the surrounding areas.”
Todd Bentley said one of the for buying into the Jeremiah’s brand is the company’s community focus.
“We wanted to make sure we incorporated something into our location that showcased the brand’s focus on family, schools, and community outreach,” said Bentley. “That’s why our shop will be the first location in the franchise to have a designated children’s area.”
The couple signed a two-store agreement with Jeremiah’s and plan to open a shop in Huntsville.
There will be kid-size chairs and tables making it a perfect stop for an after-school treat. Catering will be available with the option of pre-packaged treats or full-service scooping at events.
“Jeremiah’s Italian Ice is a fast-growing franchise, and we are thrilled to have the first North Alabama location opening in Madison,” said Anusha Alapati Davis, vice president of retail for Crunkleton Commercial Real Estate who is leasing the property to the Bentleys. “The city’s many families will find it to be a welcoming environment for all ages, and the product is delicious.”
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