Business Wars Encore: Häagen-Dazs vs Ben & Jerry's | Ice Cream Castle | 2
May 18, 2022
In 1958, Reuben Mattus faced fierce competition in the ice cream market, fueling his ambition to create a luxury brand: Häagen-Dazs. The podcast reveals his journey from hardship to success, emphasizing high-quality ingredients and redefining ice cream luxury. As the brand rises in New York City, tensions emerge between Mattus and his daughter regarding its future. The battle heats up as Häagen-Dazs encounters fierce rivals like Ben & Jerry's, culminating in a dramatic sale to Pillsbury, showcasing the cutthroat nature of the ice cream industry.
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Freezer Fiasco
- Reuben Mattus, facing pressure from large dairies, needed innovation.
- Supermarkets favored Meadow Gold due to rebates, forcing Mattus to remove his freezers.
75-Cent Gamble
- Reuben Mattus proposed a high-priced, high-quality ice cream to combat larger dairies.
- His wife, Rose, initially questioned the 75-cent price but agreed, given their struggles.
Quality Ingredients
- Mattus focused on quality ingredients and a rich, creamy texture for his new ice cream.
- He prioritized real vanilla, high butterfat, and minimal air for a luxurious mouthfeel.