Thrifty Ice Cream, a nostalgic West Coast favorite known for its signature cylindrical scoops and unique flavors since 1940, is facing an uncertain future. Originally sold at dedicated counters inside Thrifty Drug Stores, the brand became a regional icon by the 1970s. However, the acquisition of Thrifty by Rite Aid in 1996 has now contributed to recent financial struggles.
With Rite Aid filing for bankruptcy for the second time in two years, approximately 500 Thrifty Ice Cream counters nationwide—including many in California—are slated to close. Although Rite Aid plans to sell the Thrifty Ice Cream brand, and some independent franchises may survive, the fate of the iconic ice cream counters remains unclear.
While Thrifty continues to be available in supermarket freezers at major chains like Vons and Albertsons, the retail closures reflect broader challenges in the ice cream industry, with brands like Friendly’s and Dairy Queen also navigating closures and shifting market dynamics.
Despite the uncertainty, ice cream lovers can still enjoy classic flavors from other legendary brands such as Graeter’s and Baskin-Robbins.
Related topics
- Greenville Eats Ice Cream Shop to Close May 31
- Explore PA’s 2025 Ice Cream Trail and Support Local Farms
- Betty Rae’s CEO Shares Vision for Franchising Beloved Kansas City Ice Cream Brand
