For Heather Harrison, owning a Bruster’s Real Ice Cream franchise in Westwood, New Jersey, is more than just a career change—it’s a return to a cherished past and a leap toward community-driven entrepreneurship.
Heather’s connection to Bruster’s began in high school, when she worked as a scooper at a Pennsylvania location. The energy, teamwork, and customer interaction left an enduring impact. Years later, after a 15-year career in finance and e-commerce—including at startups later acquired by Amazon and Walmart—she sought a more flexible, family-focused lifestyle.
“I’m obsessed with ice cream, and Bruster’s is hands down the best in the country,” Heather says. “Plus, I knew from experience that it’s a fun and rewarding environment.”
A Corporate Culture That Seals the Deal
Her visit to Bruster’s headquarters in Bridgewater, Pennsylvania, confirmed her instincts. Heather and her husband, John, were impressed by the “down-to-earth, smart, and genuine” leadership team. Though they considered launching an independent business, Bruster’s strong support system and franchise network ultimately won them over.
That support proved instrumental in launching their first location in June 2024. From real estate to store development and operations, Heather describes the Bruster’s corporate team as highly responsive and accessible. “The company’s intranet is also a game changer,” she says. “Everything from training to inventory management is just a click away.”
Community Roots and Long-Term Goals
Owning a Bruster’s has brought Heather full circle—and deepened her commitment to mentoring young workers. “One of the greatest joys of this business is helping young adults grow,” she says. “It’s incredibly rewarding to know that their time at Bruster’s will positively shape their future.”
Bruster’s emphasis on community involvement has also been a perfect fit. Heather regularly partners with local organizations for fundraisers and events, creating opportunities to give back while becoming a fixture in the community. “We get to be part of people’s happiest moments,” she adds.
With their first location thriving, Heather and John have already signed agreements for two more territories, expanding their stake in what they believe is one of the latest ice cream franchise opportunities to watch.
Why Bruster’s Stands Out
Bruster’s Real Ice Cream has carved out a unique space in the market with its commitment to freshness and variety. With over 150 flavors—including non-dairy oat milk options, Italian ice, and sorbet—each location prepares at least 24 flavors fresh daily using Bruster’s proprietary home-style mix. This local, handcrafted approach has helped build a loyal customer base and offers strong ice cream franchise opportunities for new entrepreneurs.
With more than 200 independently owned shops and a time-tested support system, Bruster’s offers a powerful platform for those seeking a rewarding path in the frozen dessert industry.
For Heather, the transition from high finance to ice cream has been as joyful as it is profitable. “It’s about so much more than dessert,” she says. “It’s about making people smile—and building something meaningful with our community.”
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