Millie’s Homemade Ice Cream, founded in 2016 by husband-and-wife duo Chad and Lauren Townsend, has partnered with Franchise FastLane to expand its franchise footprint across the United States. The brand, known for its chef-inspired ice cream made with thoughtfully sourced ingredients, has joined Franchise FastLane’s CarPool program, which provides coaching, tools, and administrative support for emerging franchisors.
The decision to franchise came after loyal customers repeatedly asked how they could bring Millie’s to their own hometowns. Since beginning franchising in 2021, the brand has grown to 20 locations across Pennsylvania and Florida, including brick-and-mortar shops, food trucks, and specialty venues. The Townsends, who started making ice cream in their home kitchen and a friend’s restaurant, now aim to bring their joyful, old-school ice cream shop experience to communities nationwide.
“We’ve spent years perfecting our distribution and manufacturing, but CarPool is the missing link as we expand beyond Pennsylvania,” said Chad Townsend, a chef who trained in Michelin-starred kitchens. “The CarPool team brings the professionalism, strategy, and structure we need to grow – all while preserving the authenticity and sense of community that makes Millie’s so special.”
Franchise FastLane launched CarPool in 2023 to help brands scale responsibly. Partners in the program keep sales development in-house while receiving coaching on organic lead qualification, territory checks, call scheduling, and compliance issues. They also gain access to the exclusive MasterMind program, where brand leaders meet to share insights and refine franchisee support. Tim Koch, President & COO of Franchise FastLane, expressed confidence in Millie’s potential: “Chad and Lauren built a business rooted in passion, quality, and community. With the infrastructure they’ve developed over nearly a decade, we’re confident Millie’s will make a lasting impression as they expand nationwide.”
Millie’s franchise journey reflects its commitment to authenticity and community. The brand sources heritage breed dairy and local, sustainably sourced ingredients, pays all associates a competitive living wage, and collaborates with like-minded organizations. Lauren Townsend, who previously worked in mergers and acquisitions, noted, “We truly believe in the power of ice cream to bring people together, and we want to spread that joy to as many communities as possible.”
As of October 2025, Millie’s has grown from a small kitchen-counter operation to include a factory in Homestead, Pennsylvania, and multiple scoop shops and ice cream trucks on the East Coast. The partnership with Franchise FastLane marks a strategic step in its mission to “put our dream in everyone’s hometown.” For more information about Franchise FastLane’s CarPool Program, visit https://www.franchisefastlane.com/carpool.
