The Sweet Story of Thrifty and Red Button Ice Cream: A Tasty Legacy Born from Humble Beginnings

Thrifty and red button ice cream - just the mention of these words evokes memories of childhood summers, warm weather, and a cold treat that's hard to resist. But have you ever wondered how this beloved brand came to be? The story begins in 1929, when Thrifty started out as a small drugstore and soda fountain at the corner of Fourth and Broadway in downtown Los Angeles' Art Deco district.

Initially, Thrifty didn't produce its own ice cream, instead sourcing it from elsewhere. However, as the chain grew, so did its ambition to create its own unique flavors. By 1940, a small factory was set up in Hollywood, churning out classic flavors like rocky road, concord grape-pineapple, and fruit cake. This marked the beginning of Thrifty's ice cream journey, which would eventually lead to the iconic red button ice cream we know and love today.

Fast forward to 1976, when Thrifty had grown to become the largest drugstore chain on the West Coast. Despite the decline of soda fountains, ice cream sales remained strong, prompting the company to open a larger factory in El Monte to meet demand. This facility is still responsible for producing all Thrifty ice cream today, even after Rite Aid acquired the store chain in 1996.

Today, you can find Thrifty and red button ice cream at over 500 Rite Aid stores across the country, as well as in retail cartons and wholesale to restaurants around Los Angeles. The brand's commitment to quality and its rich history have made it a staple of American summertime treats. So the next time you indulge in a cone or cup of Thrifty and red button ice cream, remember the humble beginnings and dedication that went into creating this beloved brand.