Glaces Franklin uses the very best local ingredients that make us appreciate the pleasure of simple, authentic taste. With heart and soul, they prepare the innovative, all-Belgian ice cream that exceeds our wildest expectations and has won the hearts of thousands of connoisseurs. An artisanal experience with no added sugars. Ideal for the gourmets among us who want to watch their calorie intake. Meet Vincent Harvengt, manager director and co-founder of Glaces Franklin!
Vincent, can you briefly explain the history of your company?
Glaces Franklin was born of a passionate dream: to unleash a true taste revolution by returning to artisanal and authentic flavours. This dream became reality in 2011. It is often said that persistence is ingrained in the DNA of all great creative minds… It took Franklin more than two years and endless attempts to perfect his first recipes.
In 2012, the first Glaces Franklin products made their debut in some bakeries and patisserie shops in the region around the Belgian town of Binche. The public was immediately enthusiastic and the concept tasted like more. In 2013, the ice cream was selected by the prestigious delicatessen Rob in Brussels. The success story continued thanks to the revolutionary ice creams that were highly appreciated by the general public. We were then already eager to expand our small-scale business and explore new horizons.
Vincent, can you tell me how you experienced your personal course?
In 2009 I graduated from the “Louvain School of Management” (UCL). After my studies, I first worked for 6 years in the private sector as a commercial team leader at KAM.
Since 2012, I founded Franklin Glaces with my other business partners, but it wasn’t until 2015 that I decided to devote myself full time to the business. It was then also time to launch our ice cream nationally. Successfully, as it turns out, because in the first year alone, more than 250 shops wanted to sell our ice cream! When Franklin passed away in November 2018, our ice cream lost its spiritual father. However, I wanted to continue the adventure at all costs and realise my friend’s dream.
Can you explain why your product is unique?
We are the only brand on the market whose products are prepared from a short chain. Our added value lies in combining authentic flavours with the richness of our Belgian soil. We always choose local ingredients that we carefully select from small producers and, thanks to our creative know-how, we can create delicious recipes with no added sugars that no one can resist. Furthermore, all our ice creams have a Nutri-Score A, are rich in fibre and protein and are sold in 100% recyclable packaging.
Who or what have you learned the most from?
I have been fortunate to establish a very experienced board for Glaces Franklin. Specifically, I have learned the most from Thierry van Kan (Ex Godiva, D’Ieteren, Febiac) and Olivier Coune (Marcolini Group). I also get a lot of inspiration from discussions about my ideas with other professionals, who are often willing to meet me (Etienne Gossart (Coca-Cola), and many other entrepreneurs).
What would you not do again?
I was responsible for the management and establishment of a company, without any help, without any colleagues who could bring a different perspective to the project in complicated situations. The first few years were very tough, tiring and complicated. I would definitely do it differently if I could do it again.
What would you have done faster?
With the knowledge and experience I have now, I could change many things. Let’s say I would have built a good team faster so that we could develop Franklin in better conditions. The team today is great!
Vincent, can you tell me which achievement you are most proud of?
The meaning we give to our daily actions, with our products: we fight for a short chain, quality ingredients,… in order to keep the cost price down. We are therefore proud of the quality of our product and the local indirect employment we support throughout Belgium.
A final question. What is your big next goal – business and/or private?
Delhaize remains the only chain, on a national level, where we are not yet on the shelves, but we are working hard for that. I am not losing hope! We are also already preparing major projects for 2022!
Thank you Vincent and good luck with everything!
All information about Glaces Franklin can be found here: Website Glaces Franklin
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