CHICAGO (June 6, 2022) – Stonegate Capital, a division of SG Credit Partners (“SGCP”), a family-office backed lender providing capital to lower middle market businesses and entrepreneurs, is pleased to announce the closing of a senior debt investment in Van Leeuwen Ice Cream, a leading brand of premium ice cream products in the U.S.

Founded in 2008 by brothers Ben and Pete Van Leeuwen and Laura O’Neil, Van Leeuwen began as a single ice cream truck and quickly grew into a nationally recognized brand known for its made-from-scratch dairy and vegan ice creams which are available online, in stores, and at 30+ scoop shops across the country. The company sources high quality ingredients and uses simple recipes to create the best ice cream for all.

“Innovation has been at the center of the company’s success having first ascended as a leader in ice cream, to the development of unique and wildly popular flavors, to the most recent launch of their ice cream bars,” said Dan McCallum, Director at Stonegate Capital. “Van Leeuwen’s approach to making the best products with the best ingredients was an ideal fit for our investment philosophy to support mission-driven market-leaders.”

“Stonegate Capital has been a valued partner since we started our relationship in early 2022.  They consistently show a deep understanding of the complexities and flexibility needed to assist a high-growth and innovative company in the ice cream space.  They have become an invaluable member of our extended team as we balance both our scoop shop and wholesale channels growth,” said Ben Van Leeuwen, CEO and Co-Founder of Van Leeuwen Ice Cream. 

Stonegate has significant experience investing in the emerging food and beverage space. Current and past investments include Clio Snacks, Country Archer Provisions, Purely Elizabeth, Simple Mills, Van Leeuwen, and Zevia.