Millie's Homemade Ice Cream has joined Franchise FastLane's CarPool program, which equips emerging brands with the tools, coaching, and momentum needed to scale responsibly.

Husband-and-wife duo Chad and Lauren Townsend founded Millie's in 2016 after blending their shared passions for food, community, and entrepreneurship. Lauren, who previously worked in mergers and acquisitions, found herself inspired to build something of her own. Chad, a chef who worked in Pittsburgh's top restaurants and a Michelin-starred kitchen in France, shared that dream.

"Millie's started on a whim after Chad and I splurged on an expensive ice cream maker," said Lauren. "We never imagined that making ice cream in our kitchen and the back of a friend's restaurant would grow into something so much bigger. 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."

"We've spent years perfecting our distribution and manufacturing, but CarPool is the missing link as we expand beyond Pennsylvania," said Chad. "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."

Through the CarPool program, Millie's is working hand-in-hand with Franchise FastLane to find franchise partners who share their love of hospitality, community connection, and bringing local flavors to life.

"Millie's is exactly the kind of brand that makes franchising exciting and meaningful," said Tim Koch, president and chief operating officer at Franchise Fast Lane. "Chad and Lauren built a business rooted in passion, quality, and community. With the infrastructure they've developed over nearly a decade and the heart they bring to everything they do, we're confident Millie's will make a lasting impression as they expand nationwide."