Supporting entrepreneurs and small business owners in your community brings a mixture of benefits that not only support local businesses but also reach beyond the local area. In the Valley, we’re known for our variety of unique culinary creations, and now there’s a new sweet destination on wheels hitting the scene. Its delicious offerings are both delectable and inventive.
In the ever-evolving world of food trucks, churros have emerged as not just a beloved dessert but also as a way to experiment. The traditional churro meets modern culinary creativity on wheels. From reimagined flavors to beautiful presentations, churro trucks are always good to chase down as they drive around town.
Photo: Mary Ann and Darrel Stice, owners of The Snowy Churro
For local newcomer The Snowy Churro, innovation is always on the menu. The Snowy Churro was founded in 2019 by Sean Boyer in Broomfield, Colorado. In the spring of 2020, The Snowy Churro AZ became the first licensee in this expansion, bringing The Snowy Churro to Phoenix! The owners, Darrel and Mary Ann Stice, gave up 20-plus year careers in education and the medical field to fulfill their lifelong dreams of owning their own business. The Snowy Churro AZ now has two mobile units operating all over the valley.
Let’s hear from Darrel and Mary Ann about what’s cooking at The Snowy Churro.
Arizona loves churros. How do you stay unique and bring innovation into The Snowy Churro’s offerings?
We try to keep up with current trends and listen to our customers, but we also feel that keeping things simple works very well, as long as the quality of our food is always top-notch.
How do you bring new ideas into your business model?
We’re always listening and watching. We observe what other food trucks do and don’t do. We learn and grow from what we do every day. We also listen to ideas from our staff members and customers when they have them. I think the key is to be open-minded and willing to get out of your comfort zone.
What are your plans for the future? Do you have any creative ways you plan to meet those goals?
Our plans are to grow our business and perhaps even open a location somewhere in the valley. We own another food truck called Doctor Froyo that specializes in frozen yogurt and Hawaiian shave ice, and we’re always trying to think of ways to fuse the two concepts into one awesome dessert business.
What role does community play in your business?
Community is huge. We do events all over the valley so we’re always paying attention to what’s happening in the community. Since our service area is so large, it’s more important than ever to always strive to give the best service with the best food possible. Whether you’re doing a great job or a terrible job, word will spread throughout the community. We embrace that and are proud to have an excellent rate of customer satisfaction.
The Value of Community Entrepreneurship
When you choose to buy from local businesses, you’re not just getting a product or service. You’re investing in the dreams and livelihoods of your neighbors. This support helps these businesses thrive, which in turn creates more job opportunities, boosts the local economy, and fosters a stronger sense of community. So, it’s not just about the products or services we’re purchasing. It’s about investing in our communities and making a positive impact on a larger scale. By thinking local and supporting small businesses alongside our more corporate purchases, we can create a better future for everyone.
When small businesses succeed, they contribute to the overall health of the American economy. Edson E+I’s Community Entrepreneurship program connects local business owners with ASU’s existing entrepreneurship resources to give them the support they need to help their ideas flourish. Connect with the community at one of our events across the Phoenix metro area virtually or in person.
Find The Snowy Churro on Instagram @TheSnowyChurro and indulge in their menu and treat yourself to something absolutely scrumptious!
