Michael Palmer can’t help but joke about the absence of Oompa Loompas at McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams’ manufacturing facility in Oxnard, California. While the site may not resemble Willy Wonka’s whimsical factory, it boasts the enticing aromas of toasty caramel and is filled with bags of sweet, nutty chocolate. The sound of machines whirring as they blend milk, cream, and sugar captures the essence of what makes McConnell’s one of California’s premier ice cream brands.
This family-owned business marks its 75th anniversary this year, remaining steadfast in its mission to craft the finest ice cream using only a handful of high-quality ingredients. As artisan ice cream makers proliferate in neighborhoods across the nation, McConnell’s opts for a straightforward approach that honors its humble beginnings on the Central Coast. By embracing the distinct “California-ness” of its product, the brand has successfully expanded its presence on grocery store shelves from Washington to North Carolina.
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