REGINA — For the past number of years, Regina resident Lois Sugai has been the first in line for the yearly opening of Milky Way Ice Cream.
Sugai lives adjacent to the ice cream shop, peaking out of her window to make sure no one beats her to the punch.
“We love it here [and] can't wait till they open in the spring,” said Sugai, waiting for Milky Way Ice Cream to open on Thursday.
Sugai and her friends visit the shop every week, calling the place a good gathering spot for the community.
As for her go-to flavour, Sugai always chooses the maple walnut sundae.
Sugai will be one of hundreds of customers expected to come for its seasonal opening.
A community staple
Thursday’s opening marks Milky Way Ice Cream’s 70th anniversary.
Part-owner Darren Boldt described a special feeling seeing customers flock back each year.
“We're obviously special to them. And we try very hard to serve a good product with a smile on our face.”
Boldt has been part of Milky Way for 45 years, taking over the business from his mother, who still pops in on occasion.
“She's still trying to retire, but we're not letting her, and my cousins are also involved in the business.”
Boldt said the owner's kids will eventually take over the ice-cream shop.
Evolving
Milky Way Ice Cream has recently started selling its brand in locally owned grocery stores, including Lakeview Fine Foods, Rosemont Hardware, and Farmer John's Local Market & Kitchen Ltd. in White City.
Melissa Lewis, general manager of the shop, said she’s been working with the family on creative ideas.
“Add some new products, get a little bit creative with food, while still maintaining the nostalgia of a 70-year-old business.”
Lewis said it’s a “fine line,” changing the approach for a long-standing business.
“I definitely want to keep the nostalgia of the Milky Way. There's just something iconic about the Red and White Building, about old classic favourite foods. I think it's really important to maintain the nostalgia. And then also adding new products, playing with new trends has been a lot of fun.”
Boldt is hopeful the business can continue and reach the 100-year mark.
