PALM BEACH, Fla. — Sprinkles Ice Cream, a beloved local institution that has delighted generations of Palm Beach residents with its nostalgic charm and signature flavors, will close its doors on May 26 after nearly four decades in business.
Owner Anson Ainsworth confirmed to WPBF 25 News that the closure, while bittersweet, marks the start of a new chapter — with plans already in motion for a pop-up location elsewhere on the island.
“This wasn’t what we planned,” Ainsworth explained. The catalyst for the closure is the extensive redevelopment of the Bradley Park Building, recently purchased by The Breakers. Though initial expectations were for minor renovations, the scope of the project has expanded. “The extended closure is going to be a minimum of six months,” said Ainsworth. “We were told hopefully by the end of the year, and it wasn’t a feasible option for us to continue operations in the meantime.”
The announcement has left longtime customers saddened. “I am heartbroken,” said Nancy Schroeder, a frequent visitor. “I hope they find a place that’s nearby.”
Benton Bohannon, another loyal patron, echoed those sentiments, lamenting the loss of what he sees as a unique part of the community. “It’s something that has charm and individuality — now it will be glazed over and turned into something that looks like everything else.”
The closure of Sprinkles comes at a time when consumers are increasingly valuing both tradition and transparency in their dessert choices. While the Palm Beach fixture never advertised itself as a health brand, the ice cream shop maintained a reputation for quality — an important factor in a marketplace where consumers are also evaluating ice cream franchise opportunities and navigating ice cream franchise costs with growing scrutiny of food ingredients.
As Ainsworth looks ahead, many in the community are hopeful that the pop-up concept will preserve the spirit of Sprinkles while allowing for innovation in a changing landscape. “We’re exploring options that still capture the heart of what Sprinkles has always been,” he said.
For now, residents will have to savor their final scoops — and wait for what’s next in the evolution of this cherished ice cream brand.
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