Operations
David Leonardo, CEO of Chill-N Nitrogen Ice Cream, reveals how requiring each location to source its dairy from within its state builds loyalty.
Photos: Chill-N Nitrogen Ice Cream
July 9, 2025 by David Leonardo — CEO, Chill-N Nitrogen Ice Cream
At Chill-N Nitrogen Ice Cream, we built our brand on customization and creativity, but underneath the liquid nitrogen and wild flavor combinations is a commitment to something much more foundational: trust. That’s why we made the decision to build a dairy supply chain that’s local, transparent and fast — from cow to cup in just 10 days.
This wasn’t an easy path. Most ice cream brands source dairy from large national distributors, often mixing milk from multiple farms and sending it through long, centralized processing pipelines. That approach works for scale, but it removes the ability to know — or show — exactly where your dairy is coming from. For us, that wasn’t good enough.
Local sourcing, national footprint
As a franchise brand expanding across multiple states, sourcing local dairy is one of the most important and deliberate decisions we make in each new market. Our goal is simple: every Chill-N store should source its dairy from within its state.
That sounds straightforward, but it’s complex in execution. We work closely with regional dairies that meet our strict standards around freshness, quality, and ethical practices. Whenever possible, we integrate these dairies into our Sysco distribution network to streamline logistics and reduce operational friction for franchisees. In cases where that’s not feasible, we arrange direct delivery from the dairy to the store. This hybrid model allows us to maintain consistency across the brand while still honoring our commitment to local sourcing.
In Florida, for example, our dairy mix provider uses rBST-free milk with non-GMO cane sugar. Their facility follows strict state guidelines for pasteurization and sanitation, giving us — and our customers — confidence in the quality and safety of the product. It’s a great example of how thoughtful sourcing and regulatory alignment can work together to support our values.
Transparency builds loyalty
Today’s consumers — especially younger ones — care deeply about where their food comes from. They’re asking questions we should all be ready to answer. How was the milk produced? What’s the carbon footprint of transporting it? Was the farmer paid fairly?
By working directly with dairies and shortening the time between cow and cup, we’re not just delivering fresher ice cream — we’re giving our customers visibility into the supply chain. That transparency builds loyalty in ways clever marketing alone never could. We are also able to remove additives and preservatives from the process.
A Personal vision for connection
Years ago, I walked into a coffee shop in Washington, D.C., and saw photos on the wall of the owner with the farmers who grew his coffee beans. That simple visual created a connection — I suddenly felt like I was part of the story. That moment stuck with me, and it’s the kind of experience I want to create at Chill-N. When someone walks into our store, I want them to feel like they know the farmer behind the flavor.
What’s Ahead
Our next goal is full digital traceability. Imagine scanning a code at the counter and seeing where the milk in your cup came from, the date it was bottled, and even the name of the farm. We plan to pilot this concept in 2026 and are working with partners who share that vision. It’s not just a feel-good story — it’s a smart business move.
As operators, we owe it to our customers—and our teams—to rethink the supply chain not just as a cost center, but as a brand asset. For us, the path forward is clear: transparency, speed, and partnerships rooted in trust.
About David Leonardo
David Leonardo is the CEO and equity partner of Chill-N Nitrogen Ice Cream, a fast-growing franchise brand with 17 locations across 4 states. He began his career in investment banking at J.P. Morgan and went on to hold executive roles at Burger King, Wendy’s, Arby’s, and Pet Supplies Plus, leading franchise development and strategic growth. A former Division I college athlete, David brings a competitive edge and deep passion for entrepreneurship, brand building, and helping others grow through franchising.
