Pittsylvania County's Bubba's Ice Cream Plans Franchise Expansion to Danville

The longtime soft-serve shop aims to bring its signature treats to new markets across the Southeast.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 7:21pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A high-end, photorealistic studio still-life photograph featuring a polished chrome ice cream scoop and a glass of vibrant, sunset-inspired Italian ice, symbolizing the premium quality and timeless appeal of Bubba's Ice Cream.Bubba's Ice Cream's signature soft-serve and homemade treats are poised to bring their nostalgic charm to new markets across the Southeast.Lynchburg Today

Bubba's Ice Cream, a beloved Pittsylvania County ice cream shop known for its banana splits and homemade Italian ices, is preparing to expand beyond its Highway 41 location. Owner John Arnone said the company plans to open a new franchise in Danville and is actively seeking other expansion opportunities across the Southeast, including in Lynchburg, Roanoke, and the Carolinas.

Why it matters

The planned expansion of Bubba's Ice Cream highlights the growing demand for nostalgic, community-focused small businesses in the region. As larger chains continue to dominate the market, family-owned shops like Bubba's that have maintained a loyal customer base for decades are looking to bring their unique offerings to new markets.

The details

Bubba's Ice Cream has been serving customers in Pittsylvania County for over 70 years, becoming known for its signature banana splits and homemade Italian ices. Owner John Arnone said the company is now actively seeking franchise opportunities to bring the Bubba's experience to new cities and towns across the Southeast, starting with a planned location in Danville. Arnone said the company has placed ads in various regional markets, including Lynchburg and Roanoke, as well as parts of the Carolinas, in hopes of finding additional expansion opportunities.

  • Bubba's Ice Cream has been in operation for over 70 years in Pittsylvania County.
  • The company is now actively seeking franchise opportunities and plans to open a new location in Danville.

The players

Bubba's Ice Cream

A longtime family-owned ice cream shop in Pittsylvania County, Virginia, known for its soft-serve treats, banana splits, and homemade Italian ices.

John Arnone

The owner of Bubba's Ice Cream, who is leading the company's expansion efforts to bring the Bubba's experience to new markets across the Southeast.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“'People love coming here; they call it their happy place, and I know we can bring this, the same happy moments that people have at Bubbas, we can bring it to small cities and towns across the southeast.'”

— John Arnone, Owner, Bubba's Ice Cream

What’s next

Bubba's Ice Cream plans to open its first franchise location in Danville, with the owner indicating the company is actively seeking additional expansion opportunities in other regional markets.

The takeaway

The planned expansion of the beloved Bubba's Ice Cream brand highlights the enduring appeal of family-owned, community-focused businesses in the face of growing competition from larger chains. As consumers continue to seek out unique, nostalgic experiences, Bubba's is poised to bring its signature soft-serve treats and friendly atmosphere to new markets across the Southeast.