Imagine the Legacy Continues

Have you ever imagined being asked to carry on a family business that has been thriving for over 60 years? That’s exactly what happened to Nick Charlap, the proud owner of Nick Charlap’s Ice Cream. If you grew up in Western New York, chances are your childhood memories are filled with Charlap’s milk and ice cream cartons. However, when Nick Charlap took over in the late 1990s, he decided to make a bold change – shifting from retail offerings to brick-and-mortar locations.

Talking recently with Step Out Buffalo Business, Charlap revealed that this shift was initially met with skepticism. People doubted his decision, with comments like, “You should learn to walk before you run.” But against all odds, Charlap transformed the business into a brick-and-mortar success.

Embracing Change

Buying the first Nick Charlap’s location in 1998 was seen as a bold move. Yet, Charlap’s determination has proven it to be the best decision he has made since taking over his family’s business. With perseverance, he expanded the company and now boasts five thriving locations. Charlap reflects, “I don’t regret buying any one of those locations. I’ve learned how to run the business and grown it to where it is today.”

Foundations of Success

The roots of Nick Charlap’s Ice Cream can be traced back to 1926 when Charlap’s grandfather bought a Black Rock dairy. With an excess of cream due to the popularity of low-fat milk, the family business made the smart decision to start making ice cream. This is the heritage that Nick Charlap was raised in. At just 16 years old, he began making ice cream and familiarizing himself with the various facets of Charlap’s.

With years of experience, Charlap shares his recipe for success. He emphasizes the importance of nailing the basics. For Charlap’s, this meant perfecting the art of making vanilla ice cream. According to him, “If you can make a good vanilla, the rest of your varieties will follow suit.”

Responsibility is another crucial ingredient for success. Charlap believes that being responsible not only means paying bills on time but also building strong relationships. These relationships prove to be invaluable during difficult times. Charlap explains, “Your suppliers will stand behind you. Then, when tough times hit, they will provide you with the support you need to keep going.”

Staying True to the Community

Selecting prime locations has played a vital role in the triumph of Nick Charlap’s Ice Cream. Spread across Kenmore, Hamburg, and West Seneca, each location is strategically nestled within major residential areas. Charlap reveals the secret behind finding the ideal spot, “You don’t want the main demographic of an ice cream business to be people who have to drive to you. We always looked for nearby rooftops and people who could easily walk to our locations.”

With several successful locations, you might wonder if there are plans for further expansion. Charlap, content with the current state of the business, says, “We’re pretty happy with where we’re at. I don’t think there’s a sixth location coming soon.”

Visit Ice Cream to explore more delightful flavors and find the nearest Nick Charlap’s Ice Cream location near you. So, why wait? Treat yourself to the timeless goodness of Nick Charlap’s Ice Cream and create your own sweet memories!