Handel’s opens new Mesa ice cream shop as Arizona expansion continues

Handel’s Ice Cream will open a new Mesa location at Medina Station on Aug. 13, marking another step in the brand’s Arizona expansion. The grand opening includes free-ice-cream giveaways, family activities and a look at the franchise’s growing local footprint.

Why it matters: - Handel’s Ice Cream is adding another Arizona shop as the brand pushes deeper into the state. - The Mesa opening gives the company another foothold in the Southeast Valley, where the franchise is planning additional growth. - The grand opening promo is designed to drive early traffic and build local awareness fast.

What happened: - Handel’s Ice Cream will celebrate the grand opening of its new Mesa location on Thursday, Aug. 13, starting at 10:00 a.m. - The shop is at Medina Station, 1361 South Signal Butte Road. - The location is owned and operated by Terry and Jennifer Keenen, with Vanessa Dodds as operating partner. - The same team is set to open locations in Red Mountain and Gilmore later in the year.

The details: - The first 100 guests in line will receive prizes that include Free Ice Cream for a Year, Free Pint Per Month for a Year, a Family Sundae Pack, $50 gift cards and $25 gift cards. - The 1,400-square-foot shop is a walk-up scoop shop. - The Mesa store will be open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. - The shop will serve 48 rotating flavors. - Handel’s is also offering catering and pickup and delivery through DoorDash, Uber Eats and Postmates. - Grand opening activities will include face painting and balloon twisting. - The new location will support community fundraising, sponsorships and charitable donations through partnerships with schools, sports teams, clubs and nonprofits. - More information is available at the Medina Station shop page or on Instagram at @handels_southeastvalley.

Between the lines: - Terry Keenen said the franchise’s family values and supportive community were a major draw, alongside the chance to give high school and college students early work experience. - Vanessa Dodds said the Mesa team wants to build local connections through partnerships with schools, sports teams and nonprofits. - Handel’s broader pitch leans on brand history, hand-made small-batch production and a wide flavor lineup. - The company currently has more than 175 locations across 20 states.

What's next: - The Mesa opening is part of a broader Arizona rollout that includes the planned Red Mountain and Gilmore locations. - Handel’s franchise network is still expanding nationwide as the brand looks to add more stores. - The company is also promoting franchise opportunities through its website.