McGill Applauds the Frozen Dessert Brand’s Unique Products and Growth Potential
Jeremiah’s Italian Ice, a Florida-based frozen dessert brand, has named Lisa McGill vice president of franchise development. McGill utilizes her extensive franchise development experience with BrandONE Franchise Development, Rolling Suds, Home Franchise Concepts and Wild Birds Unlimited to drive Jeremiah’s national growth strategy. She also has owned five businesses spanning arts and education, retail and wellness sectors.
“I’m thrilled to join a brand that has captured so much excitement and loyalty across its communities due to the uniqueness and exceptional quality of its signature Italian Ice and Jelatis,” McGill said. “Jeremiah’s has built an incredible culture rooted in family values, joy, hospitality and franchisee partnership. I look forward to helping expand that impact into new markets while ensuring we grow with intention, supporting owners, strengthening systems and preserving the magic that makes this brand so special.”
McGill, an East Coast native who grew up on Italian ice, said Jeremiah’s guiding philosophy and integrity resonated with her. “Our founder, Jeremy Litwack, believes in two things — making a superior product that tastes so good that people come back time and time again, and giving 5-star customer service every time,” she said. “He built the whole brand off of that belief system and holds to it today. While we have 30 years in the Central Florida markets with 18 corporate stores, we just started franchising in 2019, giving us a long runway ahead of us for growth and building brand equity in new states. It’s exciting to be a part of such a dynamic brand in these growth years.”
Having worked with 15 other brands in her career, McGill understands how to advise a brand for growth, create and execute processes efficiently, and build and inspire teams around a brand. “Our challenge in expanding Jeremiah’s into new markets is building brand equity, and that is where our focus is,” she said. “Customers can relate to our mantra, “Live Life to the Coolest,” and they remember us for our vibe. This brand grows 95% organically just from people visiting our stores. Couples and families who want a joyful business call us and want to be a part of what we are building.”
Her approach to franchise development is centered on disciplined candidate selection, improved unit performance and close collaboration with operations to build efficient systems. “I love what franchising can offer entrepreneurs.”
Michael Keller, president and CEO of Jeremiah’s Italian Ice, said McGill is a great addition to the leadership team because of her entrepreneurial prowess. “Her strategic mindset and passion for franchisee success will play a pivotal role as we continue expanding our footprint nationwide,” Keller said.
McGill lives in the Sunshine State with her husband, Steven, and their two daughters, Sammy and Kas, who also are entrepreneurs.
About Jeremiah’s Italian Ice
Founded in 1996 and franchising since 2019, Jeremiah’s Italian Ice is known for its frozen treats, energetic brand personality and exceptional guest experience. The frozen dessert franchise has expanded to more than 175 locations open or in development across Florida, Arizona, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Louisiana, Colorado, Nevada, Alabama, Tennessee and Texas.
