Bankruptcy Looms for Beloved Ice Cream Brand as Maricopa Store Sells Out Fast

Maricopa’s ice cream scene faces a pivotal moment as Thrifty Ice Cream, a beloved brand for 85 years, encounters uncertainty. This follows Rite Aid’s recent Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing, which includes plans to sell significant assets, Thrifty Ice Cream among them.

The brand was acquired by Philadelphia-based Rite Aid in 1996 when it purchased parent company Thrifty PayLess for $2.3 billion. Despite the turmoil, both the ice cream brand and Rite Aid have remained silent regarding potential buyers, fueling speculation even within the Maricopa community.

In a recent Facebook discussion, a local resident suggested that it might be time to “say goodbye to Thrifty Ice Cream,” though sentiments vary. Tonya Thompson, owner of Maricopa Water & Ice, which is the only local retailer offering Thrifty ice cream by the scoop, shared her observations.

“It’s an old favorite that triggers memories,” Thompson said, referring to the brand’s strong nostalgic appeal among her customers. “When people see it, they often recall paying just 50 cents for a scoop.” She estimates that ice cream sales account for about 30% of her store’s revenue, recognizing the potential impact of any brand changes.

Despite the situation, Thompson remains optimistic. “I’m not panicking,” she stated. “I view it as they’re restructuring, and I believe they’ll find a buyer to continue their products.”

Thompson also has contingency plans in place. “I have other avenues to bring in different products that my customers are familiar with,” she assured. “Transitioning to something else wouldn’t be a big surprise.”