“When I moved to the Duluth area 22 years ago, I noticed there wasn’t a local creamery making real, handcrafted ice cream,” said Annie Carmichael, who founded her response to that particular hole in the marketplace, Crank and Dasher, in 2017. “I wanted to create something that felt elevated and special.”
“At Crank & Dasher,” Carmichael said, “we make artisanal ice cream – no additives, artificial colors or preservatives. We pride ourselves in sourcing the finest-quality ingredients, whether they’re local staples or carefully selected specialty items. Customers come to us because they notice the difference not only in flavor but in texture, and the care that goes into every scoop.”
Carmichael is proud of a number of things in her last decade or so in the ice-cream business, but foremost in her mind is the fact she’s creating jobs and helping to support the community that supports her in return.
“Many of our employees are young people getting their first jobs, and we’ve built a culture where they feel supported and a part of something meaningful,” she said. “It’s meaningful to mentor young people, help them build confidence and give them a job that truly values their contributions.”
“I’m also proud of the role we’ve played in the community,” Carmichael said. “We make it a priority to be involved in charitable events and partnerships with local organizations because we believe small businesses should give back.”
Crank and Dasher added a Lakeside location in 2024, and Carmichael looks forward to continuing to grow both locations. “We’re committed to continuing to improve and contribute in meaningful ways,” she said.
