Dairy Castle passes to new ownership
After nearly 12 years, Dairy Castle owners Rob and Jane Best have sold their business to Deven Patel.
After sale pending signs popped up at the longtime Greencastle ice cream shop at 801 Indianapolis Rd. more than a week ago, Eric Wolfe, managing broker of Prime Real Estate Group, announced the sale Monday afternoon.
Established in 1963 and known for its service and longstanding menu items like the Castle Cooler, cherry Cokes and old-fashioned sundaes, another chapter has started for Dairy Castle.
The Bests have grown the business and made many improvements while maintaining the traditional menu items Greencastle residents and visitors love. During its selling season, they can be found at Dairy Castle every day working the kitchen and greeting customers.
“Our customers and staff are like family, and selling the business is certainly bittersweet,” Jane Best said.
All staff, including management, will be retained by the new owner, and the Bests will still be around for at least a short time after today as the transition is completed.
“We’re excited for this next chapter in Dairy Castle’s history and feel confident in its staff and management’s ability to continue the Dairy Castle legacy,” said Rob Best.
Patel and his family have owned several small businesses with a customer service focus, including an Orange Leaf Frozen Yogurt franchise and service stations.
“I was impressed by the amount of business Dairy Castle does, in the loyalty given by the community and in the dedication to quality from the staff,” Patel said. “I’m looking forward to many more years of the same great food, ice cream and service at Dairy Castle the community has come to expect.”
Patel also says he plans to keep Dairy Castle open into October to give everyone more time to enjoy it this year.