One Scoop at a Time – How The Ice Cream Barn Captured the Community
Three years ago, in the summer of 2020, Will Campbell decided to do something different.
New Brunswick was experiencing the initial uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic, and Will felt that there was an unmet need in his area of Riverview. In a time of collective unease, he opened The Ice Cream Barn with hopes of families creating positive summer memories together.
“Going to get an ice cream was always a favourite summertime activity of mine. I have many happy memories of going with my family and friends — I want to provide the best experience for the people that come to visit our stores so they can make lifelong memories too,” says Will.
Driven by the customer service he has witnessed first-hand at his family’s small business — The Coverdale Vet Hospital — The Ice Cream Barn operates with the goal of having something for everyone. With over 40 flavours of ice cream, as well as waffle cones, old-fashioned milkshakes, ice cream nachos, sundaes, and brand new this year, rolled ice cream, Will hopes that the service his business provides brings joy to the community.
“Community means family, even if you haven’t met them yet. Neighbours, friends, and customers become family when they offer their support and encouragement,” says Will.
When he opened the Ice Cream Barn, Will never expected it to be such a hit. Seeing its development over the last three years, it’s no wonder the reputation of this small business has expanded so widely. The little barn at 600 Pinewood Road now has a second mobile location you will often find parked near festival locations; you can find him at Caseley Park every Wednesday until August 23 for the Town’s Art in The Park summer concert series. Both locations switch gears over the winter months and offer a variety of gourmet hot chocolates with endless topping combinations, as well as homemade cookies, under the seasonal “The Christmas Barn” name. The new rolled ice cream option being offered this summer means customers can pick a topping combination of their choice and watch it be turned into a new fun treat.
This young entrepreneur’s willingness to do something different has expanded and grown into an innovative business model. As an active contributor to many Riverview festivals and events, his love for local and desire to share outstanding customer service is now creating lifelong memories for residents, visitors, and anyone else who happens upon The Ice Cream Barn.
“The Riverview community is so supportive, engaging, and friendly. I want to share the lifelong memories that I cherish with others, and I am driven every day to make this business the best it can be,” says Will.