PA Preferred® Greco’s Italian Ices and Homemade Ice Cream has kept people smiling in south central Pennsylvania for 25 years now. Its array of decadent homemade flavors change seasonally at its two Lancaster County retail locations in Lititz and East Hempfield Township. Greco’s also deploys its pair of ice cream trucks to over 125 events every year, reaching even more people with its sweet treats.
Read our Q&A with Hamzah Dawood about the nostalgic magic of ice cream, what it’s like to be PA Preferred, and how the company nurtures its deep bonds within the community.
PA Eats: What do you like about being PA Preferred?
Hamzah Dawood: Being PA Preferred is a fantastic opportunity for us, and there are several aspects of the program that I truly appreciate..
Firstly, the promotion of local products helps us connect with consumers who are increasingly interested in where their food comes from. The PA Preferred branding signifies quality and local provenance, which gives our customers the confidence that they’re supporting our local economy while also enjoying fresh, high-quality products.
Having a brand identity associated with Pennsylvania agriculture is another highlight. The PA Preferred logo has become a trusted symbol for local consumers, which helps out in a competitive market. It fosters a sense of pride, not only in our products, but also in the agricultural community at large. This identity helps to reinforce the connection between consumers and local farmers, creating a stronger sense of community.
Moreover, being part of the PA Preferred program has directly benefited our business. It has opened new marketing avenues and allowed us to collaborate with other local businesses, bolstering our visibility and expanding our customer base. The resources and support offered through the program have been invaluable in helping us grow our business and reach a wider audience.
What I particularly appreciate about the PA Preferred mission is its commitment to sustainability and supporting local economies. By emphasizing locally produced food, the program promotes agricultural practices that are not only environmentally-friendly but also help to maintain the rich agricultural heritage of Pennsylvania. This mission aligns with our values as a small business and reinforces our commitment to responsible farming and community engagement.
What do you love about what you do, and why?
I love what I do because it allows me to create joy and foster connections within our community. Owning an ice cream shop means that I get to witness the delight on our customers’ faces, whether they’re trying a new flavor for the first time, or enjoying a beloved classic that brings back childhood memories.
Every scoop we serve and every event our ice cream trucks attend create opportunities for shared experiences and happiness. There’s something magical about ice cream — its ability to bring people together, create lasting memories, and evoke feelings of nostalgia.
Moreover, running two retail locations and ice cream trucks gives us the chance to engage with diverse neighborhoods and participate in local events. I love being a part of those celebrations and knowing that we contribute to the fabric of our community. The smiles, laughter, and stories shared over a cone or a cup remind me daily of the positive impact we have. It’s not just about selling ice cream; it’s about building relationships and creating lasting happiness, which is incredibly fulfilling.
What are your most-popular products and what do people love about them?
Our ice cream shop takes pride in a variety of beloved products that not only delight our customers but also foster a sense of community. Our most-popular offering is undoubtedly the Taste of Lititz, a unique vanilla-based ice cream that captures the essence of our local culture. This flavor features locally sourced Sturgis pretzels for a delightful crunch, Wilbur chocolate chips for a touch of richness, creamy Reese’s peanut butter and decadent Hershey’s hot fudge swirled throughout a rich vanilla base.
Customers love this flavor not just for its delicious taste, but also for the nostalgic connection it creates with the community. It embodies the spirit of Lititz with its locally sourced ingredients, and many people have fond memories of enjoying it during family outings or community events.
In addition to the Taste of Lititz, we also carry a range of other flavors and treats that are popular among our customers. Our mango Italian ice reigns supreme within our Italian ice flavors. Its rich taste and smooth consistency can satisfy even the pickiest of taste buds.
Ultimately, it’s our dedication to quality, local flavor, and community connection that keeps our customers coming back for more!
What sets your farm or business apart?
What sets our ice cream shop apart is our deep commitment to community and quality. With two retail locations and two ice cream trucks, we don’t just serve ice cream; we create joyful experiences and bring smiles to our neighborhoods.
Our dedication to the community is evident in the free events we organize, allowing us to connect with our customers and give back to the wonderful people who support us. We believe in inclusivity and welcome everyone with open arms, ensuring that our shop is a place where everyone can gather and enjoy a sweet treat together.
Additionally, we take pride in sourcing our ingredients locally, supporting local farmers and businesses, even if it comes at a slightly higher cost. This not only ensures the highest-quality and freshness in our products, but also strengthens our community ties. By choosing us, you’re not just enjoying delicious ice cream; you’re actively participating in a community-focused initiative that we’re passionate about.
To enjoy Greco’s Italian Ices & Homemade Ice Cream, visit its two retail locations and order in-person or online. You can also book a Greco’s ice cream truck for your next private event. Follow Greco’s on Facebook and Instagram for flavor drops, special events and more. 9 E. Kleine Lane, Lititz; (717) 568-5801; 329 Main St., Unit C, Landisville; (717) 618-8094.
This series was created in collaboration with PA Preferred.
PA Preferred® is Pennsylvania’s statewide branding program that promotes locally grown and processed food and other agricultural products.
- Photos: Hamzah Dawood
