From Italian Dreams to American Success: The Story of Husband and Wife Entrepreneurs Simona Faroni and Guido Tremolini, Founders of G.S Gelato
In 1996, Simona Faroni and Guido Tremolini embarked on a daring adventure, bringing the authentic taste of Italian gelato to the United States. Their journey, however, was far from smooth. Moving from Italy without speaking English and facing significant regulatory hurdles for their imported Italian equipment, they persevered with unwavering determination. Fourteen grueling months later, they achieved a significant milestone: becoming the first manufacturer of authentic Italian gelato for wholesale production in the United States.
Today, decades of consistent growth have solidified G.S. Gelato’s position as the leading U.S. manufacturer of gelato, sorbetto, and non-dairy frozen desserts for foodservice and private brand retailers. This success story is a testament to Guido & Simona’s entrepreneurial spirit, their unwavering commitment to quality, and their ability to build a strong, supportive team.
Recognized for their rapid growth and impact, G.S. Gelato was recognized as a 2018 GrowFL Florida Companies to Watch honoree. Since this recognition, the company has experienced remarkable expansion, growing from $11 million to $36 million in revenue, solidifying their position as a major player in the frozen dessert industry.
A Culture of Passion and Teamwork
At the heart of G.S. Gelato lies a unique company culture rooted in loyalty, passion, and pride. Guided by Italian proverbs like “Where there is a will, there is a way” and “Never give up on your dreams,” Guido and Simona foster a resilient and team-oriented environment. Challenges are inevitable in the fast-paced food industry, but at G.S. Gelato, they are met with collaborative solutions and unwavering support.
The “GS Family,” as employees affectionately call it, thrives on trust and camaraderie. Every team member plays a vital role, contributing to the shared mission of delivering joy through exceptional gelato. From production to customer service, there’s a collective commitment to excellence. This strong team spirit, coupled with a focus on innovation and adaptability, allows G.S. Gelato to consistently exceed expectations and navigate industry shifts with resilience.
Pivotal Moments of Growth
Several key milestones have shaped G.S. Gelato’s journey. The 2024 expansion of their facility, adding 25,000 square feet to their state-of-the-art production space for a total of 70,000 square feet, marks a significant step forward. Beyond the enhancements to their current facility, they have also secured additional land for a future 50,000-square-foot facility. This investment in infrastructure will enhance production capabilities, support future growth, and ensure G.S. Gelato continues to deliver the highest quality products.
G.S. Gelato has always been on the cutting edge of innovation, and long before 2020 reshaped the world, they were already monitoring trends and developing better-for-you products. While others scrambled to adapt to the new reality, G.S. Gelato didn’t need to pivot—their proactive approach had them prepared. This foresight allowed them to maintain focus on delivering functional foods and healthier options, reaffirming their position as an industry leader during a challenging time.
A significant personal milestone for Guido Tremolini was his induction into the Private Label Hall of Fame. This prestigious recognition honored his lifelong dedication to quality, innovation, and leadership within the private label industry. Guido’s journey, from aspiring entrepreneur to industry visionary, serves as an inspiration for the entire G.S. Gelato team.
Giving Back to the Community
G.S. Gelato is deeply committed to supporting local communities. They contribute to schools, youth sports programs, organizations that aid the homeless and survivors of domestic violence, and other initiatives focused on creating opportunities for growth and well-being. Additionally, the company provides valuable employment opportunities to international workers, fostering personal and professional development.
Looking Ahead
G.S. Gelato’s future is bright. With a strong foundation built on innovation, teamwork, and a commitment to quality, the company is poised for continued success. As they navigate the ever-evolving food landscape, Guido, Simona, and their dedicated team will continue to inspire, innovate, and deliver the joy of authentic Italian gelato to customers across the nation.
About GrowFL’s Programs
GrowFL Florida Companies to Watch (FLCTW)
The Florida Companies to Watch program, hosted annually by GrowFL, celebrates top second-stage companies across the state for their impressive growth and entrepreneurial success. This prestigious program recognizes 50 standout businesses each year, chosen from hundreds of nominees. Honorees are celebrated for their innovation, economic impact on Florida’s economy, and the ability to scale effectively. Through FLCTW, GrowFL not only acknowledges these companies’ achievements but also brings them into a spotlight that enhances their visibility in the marketplace. The event offers an extraordinary opportunity for networking, sharing best practices, and gaining exposure to potential investors and partners, making it a cornerstone for fostering business growth and recognition within Florida’s vibrant business community.
System for Integrated Growth (SIG) Program
The System for Integrated Growth (SIG) program, offered by GrowFL, is specifically designed to support second-stage companies in navigating complex growth challenges. This unique program provides personalized, strategic guidance by pairing businesses with experienced advisors who offer expert insights into overcoming specific obstacles to scaling. Through the SIG program, companies gain access to a wide range of resources, including market analysis, financial modeling, and strategic planning tools, all tailored to accelerate growth. It’s an invaluable resource for CEOs looking to refine their strategy, optimize operations, and achieve sustainable growth.
