Cold Call Disrupting the Freezer Aisle: Dr. Bombay Ice Cream
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Aug 5, 2025 Sam Rockwell, CEO of Happi Co., known for his collaboration with Snoop Dogg, dives into the exciting launch of Dr. Bombay Ice Cream. He reveals how inventive flavors and celebrity influence disrupted the ice cream industry, landing placements in 80% of U.S. grocery stores. Alongside Harvard professor Bill Kerr, they discuss balancing profitability with growth, the strategic importance of branding, and the dynamic role of influencer partnerships in shaping the creator economy, all while keeping the brand culturally resonant and agile.
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Key to Dr. Bombay's Success
- The most vital ingredient to Dr. Bombay's success was identifying and serving an underserved market segment.
- They innovated by offering unique flavors resonating culturally, not just celebrity presence.
Brand Origin and Essence
- Snoop Dogg named his Bored Ape 'Dr. Bombay' which inspired the brand's inception.
- The brand fuses retro Afro funk and futuristic vibes into unique ice cream flavor profiles reflecting hip hop culture.
Grassroots Frozen Food Entry
- Sam Rockwell entered frozen food during the 2010 recession with frozen waffles, learning the business hands-on by making product at home.
- They scaled organically by mastering freezing, delivery, and retail stocking up to servicing large retailers.