Rockwell Automation and Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream Company have outlined operational improvements achieved through the adoption of advanced digital manufacturing technologies at the Ice Cream & Cultured Innovation Conference held this month. The collaboration highlights how the ice cream producer is strengthening its production, quality control, and inventory management capabilities to support ongoing expansion.
Founded in 1962 as a family-owned business in Madison, Wisconsin, Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream has grown into a supplier serving more than 800 scoop shops, restaurants, and private-label partners across the United States. As part of its growth strategy, the company implemented the Plex Smart Manufacturing Platform, integrating multiple digital tools to streamline operations.
Since deploying the platform, the company has reported measurable gains in efficiency and accuracy. Inventory accuracy has reached 95 percent, reflecting a 27 percent improvement, while raw material inventory has been reduced by 18 percent. In addition, time spent on managing on-hand inventory has decreased by several hours, enabling teams to focus on higher-value activities.
The transition replaced two previously disconnected systems used to monitor production, which required manual data entry and often resulted in delays and inconsistent information. With the introduction of the Plex Manufacturing Execution System, production data is now accessible in real time, offering visibility across the facility. This has enabled better tracking of product loss and waste through batch management tools, contributing to improved production yield.
Quality processes have also been upgraded through the Plex Quality Management System, replacing paper-based tracking methods. The digital system supports compliance with regulatory requirements and enhances audit readiness. Traceability, which previously required significant time, is now immediate, allowing for more effective communication with customers regarding product quality during manufacturing.
Sarah Deadman, Chief Operating Officer of Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream Company, noted that inventory management has seen significant improvement. She highlighted that employees now have clear visibility into product locations at all times, reducing delays and improving coordination across the facility.
Michael Hart, Head of Product – Industry Strategy & Growth at Rockwell Automation, stated that manufacturers require connected systems to manage growth efficiently. He added that the Plex platform provides an integrated foundation that supports both current operational improvements and future automation initiatives.
Rockwell Automation continues to operate as a global provider of industrial automation and digital transformation solutions, supporting customers across more than 100 countries. The company focuses on integrating technology with human expertise to improve productivity and sustainability across industries. The latest recognition reinforces Rockwell Automation’s commitment to maintaining high standards of integrity while delivering value to customers, employees and the broader community.
