Compass

Peddler's Creamery: We All Bike for Ice Cream

Adam Wogksch


When did you first know that you wanted to open an ice cream shop?

Edward: My first job was at an ice cream shop in high school and I realized I may never have a job again where I was able to make all the customers happy! That and it had some delicious perks. So I knew I would someday like to run my own shop.


Did biking play a part in your life before Peddler’s Creamery? How so?

Edward: Of course, since childhood, bicycling has provided that exercise outlet, you get to travel and observe the world, but at the same time clear your mind, relax and just have a smile on your face. I love commuting via bicycle or taking a ride in the local mountains or trails for amazing scenic vistas!

What was the inspiration for including bicycles as a means of producing the ice cream of Peddler’s Creamery?

Edward: I like to think of new creative ways to do things that will be sustainable, this idea came about by combining two things I loved, bicycling and ice cream.

How did you make your dream a reality? Were there any setbacks in the beginning?

Edward: I decided to go for it and haven't looked back. It's like riding a century, there are always bumps along on the road or flat tires to be overcome, but the views at the waypoints and the people you meet along the path make it worth it!

What sort of reaction did you receive from people when you told them you wanted to make ice cream with a bicycle as your means of energy?

Edward: They were pretty excited actually and I still love new customers coming in and enjoying the concept for the first time!

Not a lot of businesses have found success on Kickstarter. Why do you think people were inspired to help you?

Edward: I think for two reasons: one, I was lucky to have many amazing friends, family and customers that supported us and two, I think the concept resonated with folks looking to support and business that was focused on making sure that people, and the planet were taken care of and it was just a fun idea.

Why did you choose to use Schwinn bicycles for this project?

Edward: Because Schwinn is an American icon, just like ice cream.

How has the bicycle been modified to turn ice cream?

Edward: We set up the bicycle on a stand and connected it to a kinetic sculpture and an old-fashioned churner via chains.

How long does it take to turn a batch of ice cream?

Edward: 15-20 minutes

How do you think that Peddler’s has created such a loyal customer base and how have you been able to continue to grow within your community?

Edward: Peddlers has great positive energy and we strive to make our customers happy. We are a fun place to stop in and a place where your tastebuds and your soul can both feel great!

Is all the ice cream sold at Peddler’s Creamery turned by bicycle?

Edward: You bet! That's the fun part!

What is the most unique flavor the Creamery currently offers? What is the most popular flavor?

Edward: Perhaps our raspberry pop tart, a crowd favorite. Most popular would be salted caramel, Mexican chocolate, and mint chocolate cookie.

What is the biggest challenge of making ice cream by bike?

Edward: Telling folks that they are finished after churning out a batch, sometimes they want to keep on going.

Your ice cream and other deserts include fair trade, organic and locally sourced products. Why were you confident in picking the more expensive resources?

Edward: These premium ingredients ensure we have amazing ice cream, but just as important our customers can enjoy the ice cream knowing that they are contributing to a better world one delicious scoop at a time!

Biking is pretty prevalent in your work life, but do you still bike on your own time?

Edward: Of course! I love to ride when I have free time. I just rode the LA River Ride Century in June!

The creamery is also a Benefits Corporation; giving back 5% of their profits to environmental and social issues. How do you think this has affected your business? How do you envision Peddler’s Creamery inspiring other businesses to take these progressive steps?

Edward: We love supporting the greater community and the work that the groups around us do: from the National Forest Foundation, Los Angeles County Bicycling Coalition, Habitat for Humanity, to the Downtown Women's Center. By making this business a success I believe we can help pave the class one bike path for others.

Everyone loves ice cream, so we have to ask when is Peddler’s coming to Madison? What is in store for Peddler’s in the next few years; can we get a sneak peek at the future plans?

Edward: You never know, we might be out there sometime soon!

Thank you, Edward, for the scoop!