Des Moines, IA – marks the grand opening of Scoops by Beth, a new small-batch ice cream shop in the Highland Park Business District. The venture represents a significant expansion for founder Beth Mensing, building upon the success of her home-based operation, Pints by Beth, which she launched in .
Located at
523 Euclid Ave, Scoops by Beth isn’t simply another dessert destination; it embodies a growing trend of locally-owned businesses acting as catalysts for urban revitalization. Mensing’s transition from a home-based business to a brick-and-mortar store highlights the potential of small enterprises to invigorate commercial districts and foster community growth.
The establishment of Scoops by Beth was supported by a combination of financial resources. Mensing secured funding through Invest DSM’s Neighborhood Commercial Revitalization Grant Program, as well as a successful Kickstarter campaign. This multi-faceted approach to financing underscores the collaborative effort required to support local entrepreneurship and drive neighborhood improvements.
Invest DSM, a collaborative nonprofit organization, plays a crucial role in strengthening Des Moines neighborhoods. Its strategic grants focus on exterior improvements, property rehabilitation and new housing development. The organization’s emphasis on reinvestment without displacement is a key component of its strategy, aiming to ensure equitable growth and preserve the character of established neighborhoods.
The Highland Park Business District, like many similar areas, benefits from this targeted investment. A thriving local business like Scoops by Beth serves not only as a retail outlet but also as a community hub, attracting foot traffic and encouraging further investment in the area. The shop’s commitment to offering “nostalgic ice cream flavors” suggests an appeal to a broad demographic, potentially solidifying its position as a neighborhood anchor.
The broader economic context reveals a shift in urban development strategies. Increasingly, cities are recognizing the value of supporting small, locally-owned businesses as a means of revitalizing neighborhoods. This approach contrasts with a historical reliance on large-scale developments and corporate investment, and reflects a growing understanding of the importance of community-based economic growth.
The success of Pints by Beth prior to the opening of the physical store demonstrates a pre-existing demand for locally-sourced, high-quality ice cream in the Des Moines area. This established customer base provides a solid foundation for the new venture, increasing the likelihood of its success and its positive impact on the Highland Park Business District.
The opening of Scoops by Beth also coincides with a broader trend of consumers prioritizing experiences and supporting local businesses. This shift in consumer behavior is driven by a desire for authenticity, community connection, and a rejection of mass-produced goods and services. Businesses that can tap into these values are well-positioned to thrive in the current economic climate.
the collaborative nature of the project – involving Invest DSM, the Kickstarter community, and local businesses like Slowdown DSM and Chacha’s Land and Bakery – highlights the power of partnerships in driving economic development. This collaborative approach fosters a sense of shared ownership and responsibility, increasing the likelihood of long-term success.
The planned collaboration with Slowdown DSM, offering affogatos made with ice cream inspired by their winter menu, and Chacha’s Land and Bakery, creating limited-edition glazed donut ice cream sandwiches for Ice Cream for Breakfast Day, demonstrates a commitment to community engagement and cross-promotion. These partnerships not only enhance the customer experience but also strengthen the ties between local businesses.
The opening of Scoops by Beth on is more than just the launch of a new ice cream shop; it’s a symbol of the ongoing revitalization of the Highland Park Business District and a testament to the power of local entrepreneurship. The venture’s success will likely be closely watched by other communities seeking to replicate this model of sustainable, community-driven economic development.
