Childers Mammino ice cream sold: What’s next for beloved brand?

A hidden gem tucked just off the Bruce Hwy has been sold, leaving its future up in the air.

Welcome to the ice-cream industry! Teena Mammino (centre) pictured with new Mammino Gourmet Ice-cream owners Leo and Helen Ricciardi.

A beloved Childers ice cream manufacturer is facing an uncertain future after a change in ownership.

Mammino Gourmet Ice Cream was sold by Leo and Helen Ricciardi after seven-and-a-half years at the helm of the iconic brand.

The couple shared mixed feelings of regret and joy in an official announcement, while expressing excitement for the next chapter.

Mammino Gourmet Ice Cream’s journey began in 1996 when Anthony and Teena Mammino started selling macadamias at a roadside stall.

It was Teena’s experimentation with her grandmother’s ice cream recipe that led to the creation of their signature macadamia ice cream, which quickly gained popularity.

Encouraged by the positive response, they turned the venture into a full-time business, expanding their offerings over the years to include a range of ice cream flavours, fruit varieties, and sorbets. 

Welcome to the ice-cream industry! Teena Mammino (centre) pictured with former Mammino Gourmet Ice-cream owners Leo and Helen Ricciardi.

 Their commitment to high-quality ingredients and traditional recipes earned them numerous food and tourism awards.

In 2017, following Anthony Mammino’s passing, his cousin Leo Ricciardi and Leo’s wife Helen took over the business.

They continued to uphold the traditional values set by Anthony and Teena, with production taking place at their property and ice cream sold at the Isis Golf Club.

During their time as owners, Leo and Helen experienced both rewarding and challenging moments, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.

However, they expressed gratitude for the support they received from the community, staff, and their family.

Leo and Helen Ricciardi have sold Mammino after seven-and-a-half years.

The Ricciardis are now taking time out to enjoy golf, fishing, farming, and spending quality time with their three children and eight grandchildren.

“The ice cream will continue to be sold at the Isis Golf Club until just after Easter and the new owners will make announcements regarding their business plan in the near future,” they shared.

“We wish them all the best with the business and hope they enjoy seeing people smile over this wonderful product as much as we have.”

The Ricciardis also paid tribute to Teena and Anthony, whose legacy of creating the iconic ice cream is sure to continue for years to come.

“We all have the clever Teena Mammino to thank for creating such a wonderful and memorable ice cream, and hope her and Anthony’s legacies continues well into the future.”

While the new owners wish to remain anonymous, the community looks forward to seeing how Mammino Gourmet Ice Cream continues to grow under new leadership.

Mammino Gourmet Ice Cream