Nashville-based Bravo Gelato is expanding its operations with a new headquarters in Springfield and has named John Shephard as the company’s new chief executive officer.
The handcrafted gelato producer is moving into a larger facility at 804 and 806 Memorial Drive in Springfield to support increased production and distribution. The new location will include a production area and a retail store where customers can purchase Bravo Gelato directly.
The more than 3,700-square-foot facility is expected to be operational by July 1 and will employ about 15 people.
Company founder Christie Hauck said the expansion comes as demand for Bravo Gelato continues to grow. The company’s products are currently sold in more than 20 states through retailers, distributors, restaurants, and specialty grocers.
Shephard joined Bravo Gelato in 2022 as general manager and will now lead the company as CEO. Hauck said Shephard has played a key role in expanding the company’s product line, distribution network, and day-to-day operations.
Hauck will remain with the company as chairman.
Shephard brings years of food service experience to the role, previously serving as cafe manager and food and beverage director at Fontanel, general manager at Edwards Steakhouse in Clarksville, and restaurant manager and food and beverage director at Five Oaks Golf and Country Club in Lebanon.
Bravo Gelato was founded in Nashville in 2003 after Hauck discovered gelato during a family trip to Italy. The company uses an artisan approach to create its products, incorporating locally sourced ingredients such as Hatcher buttermilk, Olive & Sinclair chocolates, Ed Johnson honey, Jack Daniel’s whiskey, and Yazoo beers.
The company’s gelato is available at restaurants, retailers, and specialty shops throughout the region, including a retail location at Gaylord Opryland Hotel.
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